By Shannon McFarlin News Director
Puryear, Tenn.–A huge crowd was on hand for Thursday evening’s public input session hosted by TDOT on the State Route 54 (Hwy. 641N) widening project. The session was held at the Harrelson School in Puryear.
There was no formal presentation; rather, tables in the cafeteria were laid out with maps and other displays showing how the project will proceed. TDOT officials and design consultants were stationed at the tables for one-on-one discussions with people in attendance. A court reporter also was avilable for anyone wanting to make formal comments about the project. A videotape outlining the project also was set up.
According to the information sheets distributed at the session, the proposed improvement for the State Route 54 corridor from near Howard Road to the Kentucky state line will “improve traffic flow and mobility as well as improve motorist safety.”
The proposed modifications include these design features: 2.8 miles of project length; 3-ane roadway section with a 12-foot center two-way left turn lane that transitions to a 4-lane divided roadway to tie into the ongoing Kentucky project; plan to construct the 3-lane section whie purchasing right-of-way for the ultimate 5-lane section to be constructed as warranted by traffic.”
The informational hand-outs outlined the project development process, with planning and environmental already accomplished. The ‘design’ process is now underway, with right-of-way and construction to follow.
The public has 21 days from the date of the hearing to submit written comments.
Photo: Crowds look over maps showing what the project will entail. Shannon McFarlin photo.