Drivers need to be prepared for lengthy construction on Elk Avenue

Published 3:57 pm Thursday, April 7, 2022

The first phase of work on TDOT Construction is underway on Elk Avenue in Elizabethton between Mill Street and Roan Street.

According to Mark Nagy, TDOT public relations, the project will take until mid-summer of 2023 to complete. The project includes relocating utilities through this section of roadway, widening the roadway to add a center turn lane, and re-configuring the traffic signals at Roan Street. The $16.6 million project is headed by contractor Summers-Taylor, Inc.

“The first phase of work on this project includes relocating existing utilities including gas, water, sewer, and electrical,” said Nagy. “Contractor personnel will be seen installing construction signage and traffic control over the next week. Work on gas line relocation began in March 2022.”

Drivers passing through that portion of Elk Avenue have already noticed the electric wiring and poles being removed over the past week.

Nagy said that as work progresses that lane closures might be seen during off-peak hours from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.

When driving through the area, drivers need to be aware of barrier rail and lane shifts, especially during the nighttime hours, to establish a safe work zone for contractor personnel working throughout the day.

“Once barrier rail is installed, travel lanes will be reduced in width and a reduced speed limit of 30 MPH will be established within the project limits,” said Nagy. “The department is asking for public assistance in maintaining a safe roadway for both motorists and workers by staying alert and aware of changes in the traffic flow and maintaining slow speeds throughout the work zone.”

Nagy added that public updates will be provided throughout the duration of the project.