Local State lawmakers Senator Mae Beavers and Representative Terri Lynn Weaver announced on April 29 that they have been informed by the Department of Transportation (TDOT) that the Sligo Bridge is included in Governor Bill Haslam’s 2011-12 budget plan.   A copy of the TDOT project list included in the budget was delivered to members of the General Assembly and media outlets on Thursday.
"We are very pleased to see this project is included in Governor Haslam’s transportation budget," said Senator Beavers.  "This has been a priority for Rep. Weaver and myself for a long time as we have been talking with the new administration officials regarding the importance of this project to local citizens. We are also glad to report that no bonds will be used, and no money will be borrowed."
“We had been assured that it would be in the budget but seeing it in print is great news,” added Representative Weaver.  “Our transportation system is critical to our local economy and jobs.  I am very pleased that we are now moving in the right direction on this and many other projects in our legislative district and look forward to seeing much progress in the future.”
"Taking a multi-modal approach to transportation planning allows TDOT to be responsive to the citizens of this state, tailoring projects to provide the greatest benefits in both our urban and rural areas," said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer. "The department will address a number of needs through this three-year program, including congestion relief, improving access to communities, and the replacement or repair of dozens of aging bridges."
"A quality transportation system is vital to the continued growth of the state's economy and increasing job opportunities for our residents," said Governor Haslam. "The commissioner and I believe this three-year program balances the needs of communities across the state and makes solid investments in Tennessee's infrastructure."
The Sligo plan calls for a new bridge to be built approximately sixty feet north of the existing structure.
Traffic would continue on the old bridge while the new one is under construction.