2004 Jeep Cherokee Engine runs warm in town since my engine

Hi, My vehicle overheated a couple of months ago and it warped my head. My mechanic repaired the engine and the vehicle runs really well now. Except that the temp gauge goes up to the 1/2 mark when I drive around town. On the highway the temp is fine, but, before my breakdown, the temp gauge never went to 50%. The hottest it would ever get would be between half way between 1/4 and 1/2 on the temp gauge.

My mechanic said that it's OK that it now hits 50% all the time while driving in town. Can I get your expert opinion on this? I'm afraid of overheating again in the middle of town.

Thanks

Billy