News Summary
The Knoxville City Council has approved a $4 million plan to implement an Advanced Traffic Management System along Middlebrook Pike. This investment will modernize traffic management across 23 intersections, enhancing traffic flow and reducing congestion. Construction is set to begin in fall 2023, with completion expected by winter 2027. The council is also considering additional infrastructure improvements in the region.
Knoxville City Council Approves Nearly $4 Million Traffic Management Project and Other Infrastructure Improvements
The Knoxville City Council has approved a nearly $4 million plan to implement the Advanced Traffic Management System for Middlebrook Pike during a meeting on Tuesday night. This significant investment marks the city’s first entry into modern traffic management systems.
The project will establish a high-speed fiber-optic network connecting 23 signalized intersections along Middlebrook Pike and University Avenue, ranging from College Street to the east and Joe Hinton Road on the western edge of the city. This new system will replace outdated traffic equipment that is at least 25 years old, enabling real-time adjustments to traffic signals and ultimately enhancing traffic flow across the area.
Construction for the Middlebrook Pike project is expected to commence in fall 2023, with an estimated completion date set for winter 2027. Following this initiative, officials are eyeing similar investments along Chapman Highway, Kingston Pike, and Broadway.
Additional Projects and Upgrades
In addition to the traffic management project, the city council authorized Mayor Indya Kincannon to amend a state agreement aimed at advancing a First Creek Greenway connection. The council also approved a hydrology study for flood management at Chilhowee Park. Other discussed infrastructure projects include a $2.5 million contract with Stansell Electric Company, Inc. for the Middlebrook Pike Advanced Traffic Management System.
The council is currently considering a $17.6 million contract with Charles Blalock & Sons, Inc. for the Pleasant Ridge Road Phase II Project. City officials are also planning to allocate an additional $6.2 million to the First Creek Greenway – Broadway Streetscape Project, which is set to increase its total budget to $1,245,019.
Furthermore, there may be an agreement with Geosyntec Consultants Inc. for $357,716 to provide engineering services for the Loves Creek Hydrology Study – Phase II. The Pleasant Ridge Road Phase II Project is also projected to secure a $1.2 million contract with Johnson Mirmiran & Thompson for engineering and inspection services, reflecting the city’s commitment to infrastructure enhancements.
Zoning and Appointments
Several zoning requests were included on the city council’s agenda, focusing on changes to residential zoning classifications for multiple locations throughout Knoxville. Additionally, significant appointments were made, including Markus Chady to the Airport Authority. Councilwoman Gwen McKenzie appointed Craig Pickett Jr. and Shante Southwood to the African American Equity Restoration Task Force.
Background Context
The decision to invest in an Advanced Traffic Management System aligns with growing traffic demands and the need for efficient urban planning in Knoxville. By modernizing infrastructure, the city aims to improve mobility for residents and ease congestion. The Advanced Traffic Management System is designed to support real-time traffic adjustments, which may significantly reduce travel times and enhance road safety.
As the city continues to grow, investments in infrastructure not only facilitate better traffic management but also herald broader community improvements across parks, roadways, and public space accessibility. These projects indicate a proactive approach by Knoxville officials to address urban planning challenges and enhance the quality of life for citizens.
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Additional Resources
- Knox News: Knoxville Looks to Hire Construction Specialist for Gay Street Bridge
- Knox News: Knoxville Budgets $2 Million to Open Gay Street Bridge to Pedestrians
- Knox TN Today: Continued Coverage on Burlington Center
- WBIR: Knoxville City Council Meeting – October 1, 2024
- Google Search: Knoxville City Council infrastructure investment
