The city of Allen is making major strides in public safety with the help of $4.6 million in state funding awarded through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP).
The funding, which supports a series of safety enhancements at key intersections across the city, marks a significant win for Allen’s residents and for local taxpayers.
A Boost for Public Safety
Rather than relying solely on local tax revenue, Allen officials took a proactive approach, applying for external grants to tackle traffic safety issues. The HSIP funding allows the city to upgrade traffic signals, add ADA-compliant pedestrian features, construct new turn lanes and install advanced detection technology, all without borrowing or raising taxes.
“This grant money allows us to make smart safety upgrades without using more local tax dollars,” Allen Chief Financial Officer Pete Phillis said in an official statement. “In a typical year, we bring in close to $2 million in grants like this — it makes a real difference.”
The HSIP is a competitive, data-driven program aimed at reducing serious injuries and fatalities on public roads. Allen was successful in securing funds under the program’s “District Targeted Locations” category.
“We identify hotspot locations with a history of preventable crashes and propose cost-effective improvements to mitigate those risks,” said Asma Tuly, PE, transportation manager for the city. “The HSIP is a highly competitive process, and we’ve been successful due to strong data analysis and targeted planning.”
Intersection Improvements Underway
Through this grant, Allen will implement enhancements across numerous intersections. Key upgrades include:
- New or upgraded traffic signals at intersections like Greenville & Ridgemont, Main & Allen Heights and Bethany & Malone
- ADA-compliant pedestrian upgrades at more than ten intersections, including Alma & Hedgecoxe and Bethany & Greenville
- Advanced detection technology and cameras to improve vehicle sensing and reduce wait times
- Signal cabinet upgrades with battery backups for added resilience during power outages
- Intersection capacity improvements to reduce congestion at busy crossings such as Exchange & Rivercrest and Bethany & Century
The Result? A Smarter, Safer City
For Allen residents, these enhancements mean safer streets and better mobility, especially for pedestrians and cyclists. And thanks to thoughtful financial planning, the improvements come at no additional cost to taxpayers.
“The city doesn’t have to borrow money for that particular purpose, which in turn saves the taxpayer money — or allows us to maintain a lower tax rate,” Phillis said.
By combining data-driven decision-making with strategic grant applications, Allen continues to demonstrate a strong commitment to safety, connectivity and quality of life.
Don't miss anything Local. Sign up for our free newsletter.
