Commission approves $5 million for Pellissippi Parkway right‑of‑way over residents’ objections

The Blount County Commission on July 16 approved Resolution 2607002, a $5 million budget increase and agreement to provide local right‑of‑way funds for the Pellissippi Parkway extension. The measure passed 14 yes to 7 no after robust public comment and a long commissioners’ debate.

Opponents emphasized contract terms and timing. Kathy Skinner told the commission that she had reviewed the TDOT‑drafted agreement and concluded it favored the state: “The contract has Blount County give TDOT $5,000,000 plus $6,000,000 worth of Pellissippi Place property ... the state can terminate the agreement without cause with only 30 days notice,” she said, adding there is “no guarantee that this gift of land, millions of dollars, will ever be used for the extension.” Several speakers and commissioners noted TDOT’s backlog and questioned whether construction funding exists now or for many years; one public speaker noted state project funding is unlikely before 2036.

Supporters said committing local right‑of‑way funds secures the county’s position in long‑term statewide planning and helps control future costs. Commissioners who voted for the resolution argued it was intended to accelerate acquisition to contain escalating right‑of‑way costs and maintain the project on TDOT’s 10‑year plan. Administration staff explained an August 15 federal deadline tied to federal funding commitments for the program and said local participation can preserve the project’s slot on the regional plan.

Commission discussion ranged across fiscal prudence, constituent impacts, and planning horizons. Several commissioners urged delay until the incoming commission and mayor take office; others argued that delaying the local contribution could cost more in the long run or remove the project from state and federal plans. Commissioner Joplin said she opposed taking money from constituents who do not currently experience congestion, while Commissioner French and others argued Pellissippi would reduce specific local traffic bottlenecks and protect safety over decades.

The vote recorded 14 yes and 7 no; the resolution directs staff to finalize an agreement with TDOT for right‑of‑way acquisition and to increase debt service appropriation accordingly. Commissioners and the public requested additional details about the contract’s termination clause, the timing of federal/state construction funding, and assurances about what happens to county funds if the state cancels the project.

Next steps: county administration will finalize paperwork with TDOT per the adopted resolution and provide documentation and timelines to the commission. Several speakers asked that the county pursue stronger contractual protections and transparent reporting on project milestones.