The public hearing will also include a NEPA, and design hearing for the Interstate 75 Exit 20 design modifications. Both interchange projects are shown on the general location map.
The Exit 20 project could begin right of way acquisition in mid-2012. This project has not been funded for the construction phase by the state Legislature; however, if it is funded in a subsequent legislative session, this interchange modification could go to construction in either late 2012 or early 2013.
The public hearing for the APD 40 interchange project is an opportunity for public input on the approved environmental assessment prior to completion of the final environmental document from the Federal Highway Administration as early as 2012. Right of way acquisition could begin by fall 2012 and go to construction in mid-2013. This project has been fully funded by the Tennessee General Assembly through the construction phase.
A brief presentation will be followed by a question-and-answer period. Representatives from TDOT will be present to address questions pertaining to the general location of the alternatives, and the social, economic, and environmental impacts of the proposed improvements. TDOT will also have representatives available to answer questions on the relocation assistance program, the tentative schedule for right of way acquisition and construction.
According to TDOT, there is one residential relocation for the APD 40 interchange project. The potential relocation is located on Stone Lake Road near the proposed interchange location. TDOT will be making an offer to this and other property owners once the final Environmental Document has been approved and final right of way plans have been issued.
The approved Environmental Assessment for the proposed new interchange on APD 40 would improve access between I-75 and South Lee Highway. The EA document identifies the proposed alternatives being considered to develop a new interchange. The total project length is 1.5 miles.
The APD 40 interchange project is an independent project designed to improve travel to APD 40 from I-75 to South Lee Highway and is being developed by TDOT.
The North and South Local Interstate Connector projects are being developed and managed by the city of Cleveland and Bradley County to help provide access from the new interchange to the existing roadway system.
The South LIC is needed to connect the proposed Spring Branch Industrial Park to APD 40 and the interstate.
The LIC projects are being funded 50 percent by TDOT, with both Cleveland and Bradley County funding 25 percent each for the local share.
The EA was approved by the Federal Highway Administration on July 18. Copies of the document are available for public inspection at the Cleveland Bradley County Public Library, 795 Church St. N.E.; TDOT Region 2, 4005 Cromwell Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421. Please call Scott Medlin in advance at 423-510-1118.
