KNOXVILLE - Gresham Smith has been hired by the City to prepare a study looking at possible improvements to the Magnolia Avenue, Rutledge Pike and Asheville Highway interchange in East Knoxville. The consultant will investigate options that meet transportation needs and evaluate the interchange configuration in regard to its urban surroundings.

This informal meeting will update the community that the study is underway and invite engagement with City staff and the consultant early in the process.

The current interchange has been criticized by some stakeholders because it limits turning movements by motorists, and it’s difficult for bicyclists and pedestrians to navigate. Do users and nearby residents see other issues, and do they have suggestions for improvements? Are there design changes that could encourage economic development, and is that something that the community would support?

The Open House will consist of several interactive stations with displays, and visitors will be encouraged to provide feedback and offer suggestions.

The meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 30, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Honey Rock Victorious Church International, 4113 Holston Drive.

For more information on the Magnolia Avenue, Rutledge Pike and Asheville Highway Interchange Study, visit www.knoxvilletn.gov/redevelopment or contact Dawn Michelle Foster at dmfoster@knoxvilletn.gov or 865-215-2607.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or LEP (Limited English Proficient) and want to request interpretation services, please contact Title VI Coordinator Tatia M. Harris at tharris@knoxvilletn.gov or 865-215-2831. If you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation to attend, contact the City’s ADA Coordinator, Stephanie Brewer Cook, at 865-215-2034 or scook@knoxvilletn.gov at least 72 hours before the open house.