The city of Irving, Texas, is advancing its efforts to improve street safety and infrastructure with the commencement of Phase 2 of the Irving Boulevard Street Lighting Project this spring. This phase focuses on the stretch from Willow Creek Drive to W. Pioneer Drive, where 39 existing solar-powered streetlights will be replaced with Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) standard electric LED streetlight poles. These upgrades aim to enhance visibility and safety for motorists and pedestrians alike.

Enhanced Traffic Signal System

In addition to the streetlight replacements, the project includes extending the city’s fiber-optic cable for the traffic signal interconnect system between Story Road and Pioneer Drive. This enhancement will ensure that traffic signals along Irving Boulevard remain synchronized, providing a backup to the existing wireless radio communication system. Such improvements are crucial for maintaining smooth traffic flow and reducing potential congestion.

Project Funding and Timeline

Funded through the Irving Boulevard Street Lighting Project Bond Fund, Phase 2 is estimated to cost approximately $800,000. The project is expected to reach completion by this fall. During the construction period, motorists are advised to remain vigilant for traffic signage and construction workers to ensure safety for all road users.

Phase 1 of the project was successfully completed in early 2022, replacing 40 streetlights between Sowers Road and Pioneer Drive. The third and final phase, currently in the design stage, will focus on the area between Lee Street and State Highway Loop 12, further extending the benefits of improved street lighting and traffic management across the city.

Original reporting: City of Irving — read the source article.