TDOT approves $2.6M amendment for Knoxville traffic signal improvements

The City of Knoxville's government meeting on April 1, 2025, focused on significant transportation improvements and performance measures. Key discussions included the approval of a transportation improvement plan amendment and the adoption of adjusted performance targets for federal highway measures.

The meeting began with the approval of the February meeting minutes, followed by a presentation on the FY 2023-2026 transportation improvement plan amendment. This amendment involves an additional $2.6 million in CMAQ PM 2.5 funding for traffic signal improvements in the University of Tennessee area. The total project cost is now approximately $5.6 million, with funding allocated for right-of-way costs in fiscal year 2025 and construction in fiscal year 2026. The technical committee had previously approved this funding increase, reaffirming compliance with federal regulations.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the PM 2 and PM 3 midpoint performance measures. These measures are part of the Federal Highway Transportation Performance Management framework, which aims to enhance accountability for federal funding. The discussion highlighted that TDOT (Tennessee Department of Transportation) reviewed its targets for pavement and bridge conditions and decided to maintain its current targets, as they are on track to meet them. However, the report noted that funding levels have been impacted by inflation, necessitating increased funding to maintain infrastructure quality.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the proposed amendments and performance measures, which passed unanimously. These actions reflect the city's ongoing commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and ensuring compliance with federal performance standards.