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Katz ridership climbs, NetTrans to start operational analysis; multiple state and local highway projects advance
Summary
Local transit operators reported ridership gains and upcoming operational reviews while state and county staff outlined bridge, resurfacing, and intersection projects; staff also reported $770,000 in federal obligations for the Ocean Valley Bridge.
Katz officials told the Kingsport MPO Executive Board that recent service changes have produced ridership gains and a stronger service offering. Katz said it added a fifth route after a Sept. 29 launch and reported that Katz Connect, the agency's microtransit option, grew from roughly 100 riders in February to about 728 riders most recently. Katz also noted seasonal promotions and outreach to local schools as part of rider education.
Ashley, grants and compliance manager at NetTrans, reported that NetTrans will begin a TDOT‑sponsored comprehensive operational analysis with consultant CD Smith and will start a December hiring class for non‑driver positions. NetTrans also participated in the state rodeo and will use analysis results to guide operational adjustments.
State and county highway staff provided project updates across multiple corridors. Sullivan County reported placing roughly 28,000 tons of paving year‑to‑date—about 14 miles in the Kingsport MPO area, with 9 miles inside the urban growth boundary. State projects highlighted included Fort Robertson utilities work (letting scheduled Dec. 26), SR‑126 span and retaining wall work, rockfall mitigation with a pre‑construction meeting planned in January–February, and RFP timing for Stone Drive and SR‑93 over CSX. Contractors have poured the Kirby Road deck and continue utility moves; some bridge projects estimate completion in 2027.
Staff also announced a federal obligation of $770,000 for NEPA work on the Ocean Valley Bridge project, a county‑level bridge project noted as benefiting Hawkins County. Local jurisdictions reported right‑of‑way work beginning on Ringbelt West End, resurfacing and corridor‑specific projects planned for 2026–2027, and locally funded intersection upgrades at Eastman Road and Jack White targeted for next summer.
The meeting closed after routine administrative items; staff will post FY25 federal obligation reports by the end of the calendar year as required.
