Cookeville pursuing state funding to address long-standing traffic congestion on South Jefferson Avenue around the Neal Street/I-40 corridor.
Planning Department’s Matthew Billings said that area has long been one of the most congested sections of Jefferson. Phillips said continued growth and development in the area have made the problem worse, with traffic often backing up nearly a third of a mile to East Veterans Drive.
“This resolution requests that the construction of a turn lane and pedestrian improvements at South Jefferson Avenue and Interstate Drive be submitted for consideration by T-DOT to be included in the Statewide Partnership Program, with the city committing up to $500,000 in local funding to assist with the project,” Billings said.
Billings said the program allows communities to identify priorities for future improvements along state routes. Billings said by committing local funding, the city can make its projects more competitive for additional state and federal funding.
“If T-DOT approves the partnership, state and federal funds may then be applied to the project, providing a more direct path toward completion,”Billings said.
Billings said the city previously used the same program for a northbound turn lane project at Willow Avenue and Interstate Drive. Billings said that project is receiving an additional $4 million in state and federal money for completion.
Council approved the move Thursday night.
