A badly clogged intersection at W. Emory Road and Byington-Beaver Ridge Road in Karns will be improved. State Rep. Justin Lafferty announced $2.34 million was funded in the state budget to add traffic signals at the intersection and make improvements on a portion of W. Emory from Karns Valley Drive to just past Copper Ridge Road to the east.
“As Knox County continues to grow, it is important that we have the necessary infrastructure in place,” Lafferty said in a press statement. “These improvements will help alleviate traffic congestion and improve overall safety at this very busy intersection in our community. I appreciate my colleagues in the General Assembly for funding this project, and I look forward to its completion.”
Lafferty represents House District 89, which includes this area.
Jim Snowden, senior director of Engineering and Public Works for Knox County, said his department provided preliminary plans and cost estimates to Lafferty. “In summary, the improvements include widening of West Emory from Karns Valley Drive to Copper Ridge Road to a three-lane section, the addition of a right turn lane for eastbound traffic at Beaver Ridge, separate right and left turn lanes on Beaver Ridge and a traffic signal,” he said.
Cost Estimate Tool – 2019_5-6-2020
2021-11-09 – W. Emory at Beaver Ridge Concept Review Set