The Knoxville City Council has approved nearly $24 million for road upgrades and housing support. About $20 million will go to the next phase of improvements on Pleasant Ridge Road, and nearly $5 million in federal funds will help with housing stability. This move aims to improve local roads and support people in need, according to WVLT.
Phase II of the Pleasant Ridge Road project, as reported by WVLT, involves the addition of turn lanes at Walnoaks Road, Sullivan Road, and Murray Drive, to fully stretch sidewalks and a 1.25-mile greenway, and to upgrade existing utilities. Engineering Director Thomas Clabo expressed to WVLT the current state of sidewalks as "spotty" at best, asserting that the new 10-foot wide path will provide a continuous walkway from Merchant Drive to the city limits. Set to begin this fall, the construction is expected to complete by end of 2027, with a public meeting to address residents' queries slated before construction commencement.
In parallel with infrastructure enhancement, the council also agreed to invest in housing security, utilizing multiple programs aimed to assist around 300 low-income residents. As per a WBIR report, the funding will support home repairs, amplify safety and health in living environments, and implement eviction prevention tactics, clearly indicating a commitment to maintaining the community's stability amidst development.
Breaking down the housing initiative funds, WATE details that the majority, over $4 million, will go to the Lead Safe & Healthy Homes Program to remediate lead-based paint and other hazards for families with young children. Additionally, the Knoxville-Knox County Community Action Committee will receive $475,000 to urgently carry out home repairs for lower-income, elderly, and disabled individuals. Nonprofit Neighborhood Housing, Inc. is set to get $385,260 for home repairs and accessibility adjustments, and Legal Aid of East Tennessee will benefit from $50,000 dedicated to their efforts.
