Tyler seeks $4.8 million TxDOT transportation grant for hospital–college trail

The Tyler City Council voted June 11 to support an application for a Transportation Alternatives (TA) grant to build a roughly $4.8 million multiuse trail linking Tyler Junior College, the UT Tyler Medical School, UT Center Hospital, and downtown Tyler, including the Smith County Courthouse.

Staff said the city submitted a preliminary application in February and the detailed TA application was due June 20. City staff reported TxDOT has provided a letter of consent and told staff the project application was favorably received during preliminary review.

A city presenter identified as Darren described the proposed alignment and stakeholder engagement. “We’re trying to make it a destination,” Darren said, and noted the route would reach slightly past Fifth Street on Highland and include internal hospital connections. He said stakeholder meetings had been held in conjunction with the comprehensive plan update.

Darren told council the project cost is about $4,800,000 and that while the TA program typically funds 80% with a 20% local match, the city believes it qualifies for transportation development credits, which could allow TA funding to cover the full cost. He said TxDOT told staff there were over 300 applications statewide and that the program this year allows one award per entity.

Council members discussed possible routing options, including a preferred route along a railroad corridor that would require railroad owner approval; Darren said that route would be ideal but complicated by the railroad approval process.

The council moved and approved the resolution to support the grant application. Staff said award notices are expected later in the year, with selections anticipated around October.