Motorists planning to travel on Alcoa Highway (US 129/State Route 115) in Knox County are being advised of upcoming road construction activities that will temporarily impact traffic flow. The construction is set to begin on Monday, March 18, and will continue through Saturday, March 23.
During this period, the contractor will implement rolling roadblocks between Woodson Drive and Cherokee Trail on Alcoa Highway. These roadblocks will occur intermittently each day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Each roadblock will last approximately 20 minutes, with breaks in between to allow traffic to resume its normal pace. The purpose of these rolling roadblocks is to facilitate the safe movement of equipment and the execution of rock excavation and clearing tasks.
Latest TN News
Additionally, flagging operations will be conducted on the ramp from northbound Alcoa Highway at the Cherokee Trail traffic signal and at the Cherokee Trail at Medical Center Way intersection. These operations are scheduled between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. from Monday, March 18, through Saturday, March 23. The flagging will assist trucks in safely turning onto the ramp to southbound Alcoa Highway as they remove trees near Medical Center Way and transport soil for the construction of a new interchange.
On Tuesday, March 19, there will be a closure of the right lane in each direction on Cherokee Trail between Alcoa Highway and Medical Center Way from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. This closure is necessary for the removal of old pavement markings, re-striping of lanes, and the installation of temporary portable concrete barrier rails. These measures are being taken to provide the contractor with the required space to safely install storm drainage and construct a retaining wall along Cherokee Trail.
The construction schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions. Motorists are advised to anticipate delays and exercise extreme caution when traveling through the affected areas, as construction workers will be present.
Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about the traffic conditions by using available motorist information tools and checking travel conditions before departing. It is also reminded that drivers should avoid distractions such as texting, tweeting, or talking on the phone while driving.
Source: Read Original Release