City Council votes on new bus route changes addressing safety and community needs

The City of Knoxville is set to implement significant changes to its public bus routes in response to safety concerns and community requests. During a recent government meeting, officials discussed a series of proposed adjustments aimed at enhancing safety and accessibility for residents.

One of the primary changes involves the long-term detour of Route 11, which will now bypass the West Town Mall parking lot due to safety issues raised by the mall's general manager. The new routing will direct buses to enter the mall via the Belk entrance, service a bus stop in front of Belk, and then exit back onto Gleeson Drive. This adjustment will also introduce four new bus stops along Gleeson Drive and Morel Road, improving access for passengers.

Additionally, Route 15 will see modifications to address safety concerns at the intersection of Washington Pike and Broadway, as well as requests to serve Coker Avenue. The revised route will allow buses to travel straight onto Coker Avenue, with new stops added to enhance service in the area.

Route 34 is also being revised to better serve the senior community, particularly around the Five Points apartment complex. The changes will include new stops and a restructured route to improve accessibility for residents.

These proposed changes reflect the city's commitment to addressing community needs and enhancing public transportation safety. The City Council is expected to vote on these adjustments soon, with the aim of implementing them in the near future. As these routes evolve, residents can look forward to improved transit options that cater to their safety and accessibility needs.