BLOUNT COUNTY, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT)— Following hours of debate and public input, the Blount County Commission voted Thursday night to help fund an early land purchase for the planned Pellissippi Parkway extension.
Commissioners approved the measure by a 14-7 vote, authorizing $5 million in funding to the Tennessee Department of Transportation for the purchase of right-of-way property needed for the future roadway project.
The meeting drew significant public interest, with residents speaking both in favor of and against the proposal. Commissioners also engaged in extensive discussion before casting their votes.
County leaders emphasized that Thursday night’s decision was not a vote on whether the Pellissippi Parkway extension will ultimately be built. The project has already been identified by TDOT and is currently scheduled to begin construction in 2036.
Instead, the vote focused on whether local government should participate in accelerating the acquisition of property needed for the future roadway corridor.
Supporters argued that purchasing land now could save taxpayers money in the long run, citing the likelihood that property values will continue to rise over the next decade. They also said securing right-of-way earlier could help avoid future delays when construction gets closer.
Opponents questioned whether spending $5 million on a project that remains years away is the best use of county resources. Some expressed concerns that taxpayers have more immediate needs and priorities that should receive funding first.
The Pellissippi Parkway extension has been a topic of discussion in East Tennessee transportation planning for years. Supporters view the project as a way to improve regional traffic flow and accommodate future growth, while critics have raised concerns over costs, land impacts, and long-term priorities.
With the commission’s approval, Blount County will contribute funding toward the early acquisition of property needed for the planned extension, while the larger roadway project remains on track for its anticipated 2036 start date.
