KNOXVILLE, Tennessee — Schaad Road Extension Project: A Blessing or a Burden?
The recently opened part of the Schaad Road Extension Project is causing quite a stir around the area, leaving many residents feeling apprehensive about driving in the newly designed space. Though the years-long project aimed to improve traffic flow, some locals believe it has instead created confusion and danger on their daily commutes.
“It’s Confusing and Scary!”
Mary Lowe, a Knox County resident who lives right next to the Schaad and Andes Road intersection, shared her frustrations: “No one knows what to do. Like, I will sit there for like five or 10 minutes sometimes, just like I don’t, I don’t know who’s supposed to go.” Lowe’s experience resonates with many in the community, as they grapple with navigating the new layout.
She recounted a disturbing incident just a few days ago: “I figured that would happen when the road was put in because of how many people had expressed concern prior. I saw a wreck happen, and I also saw a school bus almost get hit, and that was very concerning.” The anxiety surrounding the intersection has certainly increased since the reopening, with Lowe referring to the situation as a “daily struggle.”
Are Growing Pains to Blame?
Despite the residents’ growing concerns, Knox County’s Engineering and Public Works Department believes they are simply experiencing “growing pains.” Operations Director Cathy Olsen explained the situation, comparing it to other major roads like Middlebrook Pike or Rutledge Pike. “At the moment, we don’t think that it’s a dangerous intersection,” Olsen stated, highlighting the importance of having enough signage and pavement markings in place.
Is a Traffic Light on the Horizon?
Although Olsen reassured residents about the ongoing monitoring of traffic conditions, many locals disagree. “A light is definitely needed,” said Lowe. With cars hesitating and uncertainty looming over which direction to take, Lowe described the intersection as a “very scary time” for all drivers involved. Many locals echoed her sentiments, urging for an immediate solution to ensure everyone’s safety.
In response to these concerns, Knox County Engineering has begun adding more traffic signs and warnings, while crews have also been sent out to mow and improve lines of sight. The team is even looking into temporary pavement markings as a short-term fix. However, the department asserts they must analyze traffic patterns thoroughly before implementing a traffic signal, in order to avoid over-engineering the area.
What Can We Expect Next?
Olsen elaborated on the complexities involved with this decision: “You never want to just rely on projected traffic volumes,” she explained. “When you put in a signal too early, you can actually create new problems.” So for residents looking for a quick fix, the timeline may stretch a little longer than hoped.
If the Engineering department chooses to proceed with the installation of a traffic light, residents shouldn’t expect it to happen until around December. Until then, both the county and locals will have to stay alert and continuously assess how the new road additions are functioning.
Community Response
The overall sentiment in the community suggests that immediate action is necessary as concerns grow. With school buses and families regularly traversing the area, residents are hopeful that their voices will be heard and that safety measures will be implemented soon.
The journey towards a safer and more navigable roadway may not be straightforward, but the dialogue between residents and the Knox County Engineering team appears to be an essential step in the right direction. Let’s hope that, in the coming months, the Schaad Road Extension truly becomes a blessing rather than a burden for the wonderful residents of Knoxville.
