3 minute read
From the Mayor
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Our City’s progress and the exciting journey we have embarked upon to become “Future Ready” fill me with pride. Our investment in a brighter tomorrow has enabled us to elevate the standards of our infrastructure and services, enhancing our quality of life for generations to come. Together, we are reshaping Tyler into a nationally renowned community with a thriving business landscape, top-tier healthcare, exceptional educational institutions, and beautiful public spaces and neighborhoods.
The “Tyler 1st” plan encapsulates our forward-thinking efforts where we prioritize capital projects and programs to create a lasting legacy. The opening of the W.T. Brookshire Convention Center in 2023 marked a significant milestone in this journey that closed decades of dedication by numerous mayors, council members, and staff. The first phase of this project culminated with the complete renovation and reopening of the historic Mayfair Dance Hall Building: a building that embodies past and future combined with a rich music history marked by Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and many more of the greats.
We understand the importance of enhancing our public spaces, making them a haven for residents and visitors alike. We have rejuvenated Pollard Park with new additions like pickleball and basketball courts and new playground equipment. This year, we are upgrading W.E. Winters Park to become the trailhead of the new section of Legacy Trails. The extended trails will one day connect the most southern and northern points of our City for all walks of life to travel.
As our community experiences remarkable growth, we are readying our streets and traffic systems. The City has budgeted $26.9 million from the Half-Cent fund for street reconstruction projects and Phase Four of the Traffic Signalization Modernization Project. Part of modernizing our traffic system involves new equipment that helps our Fire Department respond to emergencies more quickly. The emergency preemption equipment (installed on all 149 traffic signals in the City) prompts stoplights to give the approaching fire engines the right-of-way.
To support our growth and better protect and serve our residents, we increased funding for Tyler’s Police and Fire Departments. Public safety is always our top priority, and we understand the importance of having well-trained professionals in those fields. To be competitive in the workforce, we have included a market pay adjustment for Police and Fire to recruit and retain the best first responders in the nation.
The future of Tyler is brighter than ever, with a nod to our cherished history. The Tyler of tomorrow will enhance the beauty that we see today. These changes are a deliberate reflection of our unique identity and the invincible spirit of Tyler, Texas.
I am honored to be your neighbor and proud to serve as your mayor on this remarkable journey toward a “Future Ready” Tyler.
