KNOXVILLE, TN. (Story courtesy of WVLT) – The Knoxville City Council met Tuesday night to discuss and approve two major agreements totaling nearly $20 million for Phase II of a project on Pleasant Ridge Road.

Councilmembers approved two contracts for improvements to Pleasant Ridge Road from Merchant Drive to the city limits.

According to the city, turn lanes will be added at Walnoaks Road, Sullivan Road and Murray Drive. Additionally, sidewalks and a new 1,25 mile greenway will be constructed and utilities will be upgraded.

Charles Blalock & Sons, the contractor, will receive $17,686,117, and Johnson Mirmiran & Thompson will provide construction engineering and inspection services for $1,223,187.

City officials said this project complements earlier work on Pleasant Ridge Road that added turn lanes, sidewalks and utility upgrades on a 1.3 mile section between Merchant Drive and I-640.

Construction is slated to begin this fall and wrap up by the end of 2027. Before the start of construction, the city will hold a public meeting to answer residents’ questions.