North Knoxville soon will have a safe new east-west pedestrian route that connects dozens of Atlantic Avenue area families with the Broadway business corridor.

At its regular Tuesday (June 28) meeting, City Council unanimously approved a request by Mayor Indya Kincannon’s administration to invest $2.9 million in state and City funding to build 3,000 linear feet of sidewalk on the north side of Atlantic Avenue between Pershing Street and Broadway.

Once a contract is finalized, crews with McKinnon Construction Co. will begin the construction. Anticipate the sidewalk being completed in early 2023.

McKinnon Construction was the most responsive of four companies that submitted proposals for the competitively-bid project.

Knoxville Utilities Board also is a partner; KUB will reimburse the City for $1.3 million in necessary utility work.

“Safe connectivity in neighborhoods is important,” Mayor Kincannon said. “This new sidewalk will create safer options for North Knoxville families who walk or bike to get to the stores, jobs, and bus stops on Broadway and beyond.”

Fifth District Councilman Charles Thomas believes the pedestrian option will be much appreciated.

“This project connects the various blocks of the neighborhood in a safe manner on a relatively busy street,” Thomas said. “It provides a safe pathway to the businesses on Broadway.”