KNOXVILLE, TN (AP) The interstate highways running through Knoxville already are under construction. Now the footpaths are, too.

Mayor Bill Haslam and City Council members broke ground July 11 on the Bearden Village Vehicle Trip Reduction Project, approximately 2 mi. of pedestrian greenways linking residential neighborhoods to schools, businesses and bus service.

The $3.3-million city-financed project, which includes $1.5 million in utility work paid for by the Knoxville Utilities Board, is expected to be completed in 12 months.

Haslam credited neighborhood associations and businesses in the Bearden area for coming up with the idea approximately two years ago “to make their community more pedestrian-friendly by providing safe and accessible paths and sidewalks.

“This greenway will provide children a safer route to Bearden Elementary and West High schools, provide a pedestrian connection between neighborhoods and small businesses and make bus service more accessible,” he said.

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