Tyler Takes Action to Repair Damaged Drainage Culvert

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The City of Tyler, Texas has taken steps to address a collapsed section of a 90-year-old stormwater drainage culvert on East Elm Street. The city council approved two contracts to assess the damage and plan repairs, as the culvert runs beneath a private building and active utilities. Emergency shoring was installed in November 2025 to prevent further collapse and soil washout.

Why it matters

The damaged culvert poses risks to nearby buildings and public infrastructure, requiring the city to coordinate repair efforts with the owners of the affected private property. Addressing aging stormwater systems is a common challenge for municipalities, as failing infrastructure can lead to flooding and other public safety concerns.

The details

In November 2025, a section of the stormwater box culvert located between Broadway Avenue and Spring Avenue collapsed, leading to a large washout and leaving the culvert's roof unsupported. Emergency shoring was installed that month to prevent further collapse and soil washout. The box culvert is estimated to be about 90 years old or older and has some additional damaged areas not related to the collapsed section.

• In November 2025, a section of the stormwater box culvert collapsed.
• In November 2025, emergency shoring was installed within the culvert to prevent further collapse and soil washout.

What’s next

The city will enter into two contracts to assess the damage and plan repairs to the culvert, as it runs beneath a private building and active utilities.