The City of Alcoa Public Works and Engineering Department today announced the activation of a newly installed traffic signal at the Old Knoxville Highway and Sam Houston School Road intersection. Motorists should be advised that the new signal will be activated mid-morning on Monday, December 17, 2007. The traffic signal has been operating in a "flash" mode since Monday, December 10, 2007.

The City of Alcoa has been working with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) on the installation of the signal since the opening of Blount County's new Eagleton Elementary School, located on Sam Houston School Road. TDOT first required construction of turning lanes on the Old Knoxville Highway and Sam Houston School Road before considering the traffic signal. The turn lanes were completed in 2004 at a total cost over $112,000. TDOT funded $50,000 of this work with the City of Alcoa paying for the remainder. The traffic signals were installed by Holley Electric Company at a cost totaling over $97,000 and was completely funded by the City.

Motorists are urged to exercise caution in the area as drivers become accustomed to the signal's operation.