On Monday, November 14th, the Cleveland City Council celebrated the completion of the construction of the improved Parker St re-design between 20th and 25th which was completed earlier this fall. Enhancements to this section of Parker St accompanied Bradley County’s ongoing development of the PIE Center and the newly completed Lee University Ray Conn Sports Complex.
The project includes substantial improvements to the organization and traffic flow of traffic on Parker Street. Dedicated turning lanes were added to provide greater access to Ocoee Middle School drop-off and pick-up zones while minimizing through-traffic backup. Reduced travel times can be expected for those traveling between 20th and 25th Streets during peak traffic hours.
Mayor Kevin Brooks noted the project was an excellent example of the spirit of cooperation between the city, Bradley County and Lee University. He added, “This project transforms a major gateway to Lee University and into our growing downtown. I’m so pleased this project was not only completed under budget and on time, but we were able to benefit our friends at the County Schools and Lee University while providing better traffic flow for all citizens who use this corridor”.
Newly added sidewalks, along with lane redesign, allow for safer pedestrian access to the PIE Center, Ocoee Middle, and Lee University facilities. Other changes include the addition of on-street parking spaces, drainage and storm water improvements, new lighting, and added landscaping. City Manager, Joe Fivas, compliment staff who helped make this project a reality, “When Bradley County Director of Schools Linda Cash requested the $500,000 improvement, the city made this project a priority in the name of community partnerships. Everyone from our engineering staff to public works really came together to make sure this project was completed on time and done the right way. There were a lot of moving parts between the PIE Center and athletic complex and our staff did a great job navigating all of those elements”.