Highway 66 Widening Project in Sevier County Begins

 

KNOXVILLE – The most expensive highway project funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in Tennessee is now underway. Construction crews began widening a four mile section of Highway 66 in Sevier County Monday night, July 27. 

 

When completed, the $38.7 million project will widen the existing highway from four lanes to six lanes including shoulders, curb and gutter and sidewalks, from Boyds Creek Highway (SR-338) to SR-448 in Sevierville. Highway 66, also known as the Great Smoky Mountains Parkway, is the main artery into the popular tourist destinations of Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. With over 9 million visitors last year, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the country.

 

“Highway 66 is a very busy route especially during peak travel seasons as vacationers make their way into Sevier County,” said TDOT Chief Engineer Paul Degges. “The improvements we are making with these Recovery Act funds will help reduce congestion and improve safety on Highway 66.”

 

TDOT today added a new Web site address to keep motorists informed about the Highway 66 project. Residents, businesses and motorists are encouraged to visit www.improving66.com to stay up to date on project developments. The Web page contains up to date traffic information, project maps and frequently ask questions. Motorists can also know before they go by signing up to follow the Highway 66 project on twitter at www.twitter.com/improving66 or @improving66 if you already have a twitter account.  

 

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