Exciting changes are on the horizon for downtown Paris, TN, as the City prepares to implement a series of critical traffic signal upgrades designed to enhance safety, efficiency, and accessibility for both drivers and pedestrians.
2 Projects | 2 Grants | Over $2 Million in Funding
This transformative initiative is powered by grant funding, totaling over $2 million, across two major projects:
- Grant #1: A 2018 STBG for signalization and safety upgrades at the four Market Street intersections downtown. TDOT has approved this project to move forward to the construction phase.
- Grant #2: A 2020 Multimodal Access Grant aimed at upgrading the three remaining intersections downtown. While this project is still awaiting final approval from TDOT, it is progressing and not far behind.
Together, these two projects will reshape the traffic flow and pedestrian experience throughout the core of our city.
What’s Being Upgraded?
The improvements include:
- New Signal Controllers and Heads
Updated hardware to improve signal reliability and reduce maintenance needs. - Vehicle Detection Systems
Adaptive technology to manage traffic based on real-time vehicle flow. - Pedestrian Safety Enhancements
Comprehensive measures to make downtown safer and more accessible for everyone.
Putting Pedestrian Safety First
Several safety-focused features are included:
- Countdown Timers & Push Buttons: Provide clear, accessible crossing signals, with tactile and audible feedback to help everyone—especially children, seniors, and mobility-challenged individuals—navigate intersections safely.
- Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPI): Give pedestrians a 3–7 second head start before vehicles get a green light, increasing visibility and reducing vehicle-pedestrian conflicts by up to 13%.
- Curb Extensions & ADA Ramps: “Bump-out” curbs slow turning traffic and guide pedestrians to cross safely, while ADA-compliant ramps and tactile warnings ensure accessibility.
- High Visibility Crosswalks: Use bold, eye-catching patterns proven to reduce pedestrian injury crashes by up to 40%.
What’s Next?
With construction set to begin as early as August 2025 and completion expected by mid-2026, these upgrades represent a major investment in a safer, smarter downtown Paris.
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