City awaits key parts for Mariner Point–SR 61 signal
Work on a traffic light on the intersection of Mariner Point and State Route 61 has paused as the city of Clinton waits on supplies.
Clinton City Manager Roger Houck discussed the project at the Oct. 27 Clinton City Council meeting.
He said the city was waiting on a mast arm and other items for that light’s construction. Installation, he said, should be ready to start by Jan. 1. He estimated the light will take a few months to complete with workers installing it early spring or late winter.
Houck previously said the project will cost the city $299,000. While it involves a state road, he said the Tennessee Department of Transportation did not believe after studies that a light was warranted but would let the city install one at its own expense. City officials, including Clinton Mayor Scott Burton, however, have said traffic is worsening at that intersection.
The area includes the Anderson County Senior Center, The Lantern at Morning Pointe Senior Living facility, an Exxon station and a residential neighborhood.
Sinking Springs turn lane
Mariner Point and 61 isn’t the only intersection that may see changes next year.
Houck told city Council said the Tennessee Department of Transportation is interesting in building an east bound turn lane at the intersection of North Charles G. Sievers Boulevard and Sinking Springs Road.
“It’ll probably be next summer before we see it, but it is in their plans,” said Houck.
Mark Nagli, TDOT Regional Communications Officer, emailed The Courier News on Nov. 10 confirmed that the project was on track for construction to begin in 2026. Funding will be 80 percent federal and 20 percent state rather than city or county, Nagli said.
Restrooms at fairgrounds
The Clinton City Council unanimously approved at the same Oct. 27 meeting to let the Anderson County Fair Association add new restrooms to Anderson County Fairgrounds.
They will be adjacent to the fair exhibit building and be open during the fair and other events, Houck said. The Anderson County Fair Association plans to fund the project rather than making the city of Clinton pay for it. The resolution City Council passed however, said the city employees might provide “in kind labor as needed” which Houck said might include grade work.