Public Hearings Scheduled for State Route 126 Project in Sullivan County
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – On Tuesday, December 11th, TDOT will hold two public hearings to gather input on the proposed State Route 126 (Memorial Boulevard) project in Sullivan County.
TDOT has made efforts to reduce impacts to the community and environment in response to comments from citizens since the January publication of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS).
Normally this work is initiated after a public hearing and whenever new technical information is available. TDOT delayed previously scheduled public hearings so that ample time could be given to review the public input that was received when the DEIS was published. This also allowed for further time to rework the design of the project. TDOT has incorporated new information in their analysis of roadway designs to minimize impacts. This includes the Metropolitan Planning Organization’s (MPO) updated traffic model and new traffic counts.
TDOT recognizes community concerns about the potential impacts to the East Lawn Cemetery and to Yancey’s Tavern. “We have made modifications to the roadway design applying the new traffic information that will allow us to avoid grave relocations and impacts to historic property,” said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer. “Additionally, the potential impact to numerous residents and businesses has been reduced.”
The proposed modifications will be shared at the December 11 public hearings, in addition to the three alternatives (2 build alternatives and the no-build alternative) studied in the DEIS. A panel of TDOT representatives from different divisions will be present to address questions. Right-of-Way Division representatives will also be present to address concerns about possible displacements and relocations.
TDOT officials continue to make every effort to work with our local partners, and encourage the public to attend the hearings and make their comments heard. In addition to continuing technical analyses, community input will be considered when preparing the Final Environmental Impact Statement.
Public Hearing #1
When: Tuesday, December 11, 2012 at 11:30 a.m. ET
Where: Kingsport Civic Center
1550 Fort Henry Drive
Kingsport, TN 37664
Public Hearing #2
When: Tuesday, December 11, 2012 at 6 p.m. ET
Where: Sullivan Central High School (Gym)
131 Shipley Ferry Road
Blountville, TN 37617
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