BusinessTN

In 1965, plans were proposed to run a strip of highway through Bradley and Polk counties that would connect Chattanooga to Asheville, and in the process spawn economic and geographical development for surrounding residents, businesses and beyond. Forty-two years after its initial proposal, Corridor K just might have the momentum it needs to become a reality.

Thanks to the persistent and collaborative efforts of numerous organizations, including the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), the Appalachian Regional Commission and the Southeast Industrial Development Association, Corridor K is currently the center of an economic development study, slated for completion mid-December. Once the study—an analysis of the economic needs tied to transportation facilities in the projected Corridor K region—is concluded, recommendations and specific measures to further the development process will be considered.

Many consider the proposed federal roadway, which would begin on 1-75 near Cleveland, Tenn., and conclude in Dillsboro, N.C., long overdue.

"For too long, this region of the country has been overlooked when it comes to furthering construction of the Appalachian Highway System," says Gregg Thomas, community development director for the city of Cleveland. "Most of the construction has been completed on the North Carolina side, and it's time that Southeast Tennessee has the opportunity to tap into that kind of growth."

In addition to putting a substantial dent into the 2.5-hour commute between Chattanooga and Asheville, the open roadway would enable industries and individuals alike to increase trade and business in the Southeast region of Tennessee—thus bringing in more revenue and offering an appealing locale for employee re-location.

Though it may be unfelt to urban dwellers, the impact of something like a rockslide outside of Chattanooga can be a literal roadblock for commuters and commerce. Without a direct route available, truckers and travelers are forced to travel north to Knoxville or south to Atlanta when all they really want to do is go east. "It's more than a matter of just people getting where they need to go," Thomas says. "This development is about industry and economy being able to traverse the mountain."

With the logistical argument long since made, what's going to make the difference for Corridor K this time around? "The last time plans for Corridor K were publicly presented was in 2004," says Jennifer Osborne, regional community relations officer for TDOT. "This time, the project has the support of the Rural Planning Organization (RPO), which did not exist then. Instead of recycling the previous plan, we are starting the process from the beginning with no preconceived notions of what the road will look like, where it will go, what it will be, etc." Osborne also points out that there will be "extensive public involvement" during the process. "All options are on the table," she says.

With a renewed push behind Corridor K's development, there are hopes that commerce will expand beyond Bradley and Polk counties and into Chattanooga and Hamilton County, particularly since areas off and around 1-75 offer prime spots for business locations. Furthermore, the city of Cleveland is working with TDOT and other organizations to ensure that the planning and construction of Corridor K is "green"-sensitive. "With the renewed emphasis on eco-friendliness, I know that measures will be taken to keep Corridor K aligned with environmental needs," Thomas says.

Such aligning will undoubtedly take time, but if there's one thing every commuter between Asheville and Chattanooga has learned, it's patience.