City partnership with TxDOT paves way for bridge repairs

Two Tyler bridges will soon see improvements thanks to a creative partnership between the City of Tyler and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).

On Wednesday, Nov. 12, the City Council approved a resolution supporting a TxDOT project for the replacement of the aging Boldt Avenue bridge over Black Fork Creek while completing repairs on the bridge at Old Bullard Road over West Mud Creek, Tributary C. Together, the projects will improve safety and extend the lifespan of two important neighborhood crossings in South Tyler.

The agreement falls under the Federal Off-System Bridge Program, which helps local governments repair or replace structurally deficient bridges on public roads not part of the state highway system. While the program typically requires cities to fund 10 percent of the project cost, state rules allow that local share to be waived if a city performs equivalent improvements on another deficient structure.

By committing to the Old Bullard Road bridge repair as its equivalent match project, the City of Tyler will meet the requirement for the Boldt Avenue bridge replacement without any additional local costs. The Old Bullard Road project, estimated at $45,000, will be funded through the City's General Fund, Stormwater Capital Outlay Budget.

"This approach lets us stretch our resources and double the benefit for residents," said City Engineer Darin Jennings. "Projects like these build a safer, stronger Tyler; one connection at a time."

The Boldt Avenue bridge, a familiar route for families and school traffic, has been identified by TxDOT as needing replacement due to its age and structural wear. It was included in the Texas Transportation Commission's approved program of projects in August 2023.

Design for both the Boldt Avenue and Old Bullard Road bridge projects is expected to begin in 2026, with construction anticipated to take place in 2028.