The City of Tyler approved a $4.4 million contract to address drainage and flooding issues on Keaton Avenue, improving stormwater management for 248 acres near Pollard Park. (City of Tyler)

The City of Tyler approved a $4.4 million contract to address drainage and flooding issues on Keaton Avenue, improving stormwater management for 248 acres near Pollard Park.

A $4,429,876.60 Capital Improvements Project construction contract with Reynolds & Kay was approved, Oct. 23. The Keaton Avenue area has been a focus for several years due to erosion and flooding residents have experienced.

The project will enhance drainage by diverting stormwater down Keaton Avenue with the installation of two reinforced concrete boxes.

Key improvements include enlarging and rebuilding the channel from Shepherd Lane to Wynwood Drive to increase its capacity, enhancing the natural channel between Bain Place and Keaton Avenue near Shepherd Lane, and rebuilding the channel from Fry Avenue to the improved channel between Shepherd Lane and Wynwood Drive.

Additionally, utilities in Keaton Avenue will be replaced while ensuring road access for construction.

The project is funded by the American Rescue Plan Act and is expected to be completed by the end of 2025. A previous contract was awarded to Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, LLC, for the project’s design in 2023.

In addition to the drainage project, the City of Tyler’s Planning Department has been recognized with the 2024 Certificate of Achievement for Planning Excellence.

This marks the ninth consecutive year the department has received this honor, which acknowledges professional planning standards and community support. The award is part of the “Richard R. Lillie, FAICP Planning Excellence Recognition Program,” highlighting planning efforts that benefit economic development and community image.

Evaluation criteria included community engagement, professional training, and the completion of the Tyler 1st Comprehensive Plan Five-Year Update.