The City of Paris continues to make progress on several grant-funded projects that will improve public safety, transportation, accessibility, recreation, and infrastructure throughout our community.
From improvements at Eiffel Tower Park to downtown traffic signals, the Rison Street Bridge replacement, and the construction of a new fire station, these investments are helping the City address current needs while planning for the future.
Here’s a look at where each project stands as of October 2026.
Eiffel Tower Trout Pond Boardwalk
Funding: 2024 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)
Status: In Progress | Estimated Completion: December 2026
Improvements at the Eiffel Tower Trout Pond are underway, with the goal of creating a more accessible and inviting outdoor recreation area while enhancing the natural environment. The project includes an ADA-accessible trail with boardwalks, expanded parking, a fishing and observation pier, pond expansion, a new wetland habitat, and native landscaping to support wildlife and preserve the area’s natural beauty.
Recent progress includes the installation of the concrete seating area, supports for the wetland boardwalk, and asphalt along the back section of the trail. Some sections of the trail require additional adjustments to meet accessibility requirements. The City and contractor are also evaluating a potential increase in the wetland’s water depth to further enhance the habitat.
Construction is progressing quickly, and the project may be completed ahead of its original December 2026 estimate.
Tyson Avenue and Mineral Wells Intersection Improvements
Funding: 2022 Multimodal Access Grant
Status: Nearing Completion
Improvements at the Tyson Avenue and Mineral Wells intersection are nearing completion. This project is designed to improve safety and accessibility for motorists and pedestrians traveling through the area. The work includes pedestrian controllers, updated medians, crosswalks, and a new sidewalk connecting the Sonic area along Tyson Avenue to the DMV.
The new sidewalks are complete, and work on the intersection upgrades is underway. Construction is very near completion. Once finished, these improvements will provide a safer and more accessible connection for people traveling through this busy area.
Downtown Signalization Project
Funding: 2018 Surface Transportation Block Grant (STBG) and 2020 Multimodal Access Grant
Status: Phase One In Progress | Phase Two Planned for Fall 2027
The Downtown Signalization Project includes two grant-funded phases that will modernize traffic signals and improve pedestrian accessibility at key intersections throughout Paris.
Phase One: Three Downtown Intersections
Funded through the 2018 Surface Transportation Block Grant, the first phase began in June 2026 and is expected to be completed in November 2026. Work is underway at three intersections: North Poplar Street and East Washington Street, South Poplar Street and West Wood Street, and East Wood Street and South Brewer Street. Improvements include updated traffic signal equipment, vehicle detection technology, countdown pedestrian signals, audible crossing features, enhanced crosswalks, and updated curb ramps.
All three intersections are under construction. Pedestrian signals and control boxes have been installed, and the new sidewalk at the Edward Jones corner is complete. Some remaining signal equipment is still being delivered, and work continues at the other corners.
Despite these ongoing activities, the project remains on track for an expected November completion.
Phase Two: Market Street Intersections
The second phase, funded through the 2020 Multimodal Access Grant, is currently anticipated to begin in fall 2027. This phase will focus on four intersections along Market Street in downtown Paris, continuing the effort to modernize traffic signals and improve pedestrian safety and accessibility.
Together, the two phases will provide important upgrades to downtown transportation infrastructure and create safer, more accessible intersections for the community.
Rison Street Bridge Replacement
Status: In Progress | Estimated Completion: June 30, 2027
The City is moving forward with the permanent replacement of the Rison Street Bridge near Johnson Park.
The original bridge was closed in October 2023 after inspections identified deteriorated conditions that made it unsafe for public use. Although grant funding and replacement plans were already in place, unexpected Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) budget reductions delayed the project. To avoid leaving the bridge closed indefinitely, the City worked with TDOT to identify temporary repairs that would allow it to safely reopen. Public Works completed the necessary work, and the bridge reopened to traffic in January 2025.
Construction of the permanent replacement is now underway. Both bridge abutments, which support the structure, have been completed, and the beams are ready for installation. Construction is progressing smoothly, with completion currently estimated for June 30, 2027.
The bridge will remain closed throughout construction.
New Fire Station #1
Status: In Progress | Estimated Completion: March 18, 2027
Construction continues on the new Fire Station #1, a major investment in the City’s emergency response capabilities.
The existing station has served Paris since 1960. Originally built for a department of 12 firefighters, the aging facility no longer meets the needs of a modern fire service. Today, the Paris Fire Department has 24 firefighters, six apparatus, and expanded responsibilities that include fire suppression, rescues, hazardous materials response, and mutual aid throughout Henry County. The new station is designed to provide the space, equipment, and resources needed to support these responsibilities for years to come.
Planned features include:
- Six drive-through apparatus bays
- A dedicated training tower
- Modern exhaust and safety systems
- Workout and common areas
- A safe surrender baby box
- A display room for the vintage fire engine
- A radio tower and backup dispatch center
Construction is progressing across the site. The structural steel is nearing completion, the tower stairs have been installed, and waterproofing in the bunk area and apparatus bay is complete. Interior framing is progressing, and plumbing and electrical work is advancing. A manufacturer delay affecting some of the tower’s structural components has been resolved, and the components have been installed.
The project is currently expected to be completed by March 18, 2027.
Investing in the Future of Paris
Each of these projects addresses a different community need, but they share a common goal: improving the safety, accessibility, infrastructure, and quality of life of Paris residents.
Grant funding helps the City pursue significant improvements while leveraging resources beyond the local budget. These projects also involve extensive planning, coordination, and collaboration with contractors and partner agencies to move from initial plans to completed improvements.
The City of Paris will continue to share updates as these projects progress. Follow the City’s official communication channels for the latest news and updates on projects happening throughout our community.
Committed to Excellent Community Service.