Progress Under Way With Major Highway Projects In Upper East Tennessee In Wake Of Hurricane Damage, Questions Remain On Certain Issues

Image Credit: Joe Ambrose

The Tennessee Conservative [By David Seal] –

After a controversial maneuver by the State Assistant Attorney General to obtain emergency easements on 45 properties along State Route 81 in Washington and Unicoi Counties, progress is being made on road repairs.

Some property owners remain upset at the state’s use of widespread eminent domain under the governor’s so-called “emergency powers” statute. 

Unicoi And Washington County Property Owners Ambushed With Notice Of Condemnation In Wake Of Hurricane Devastation

Other residents are highly concerned about the status of the tributary creek beds that carry storm water from watersheds to the Nolichucky River.

Since the flooding event caused by Hurricane Helene, citizens have noticed that much smaller rainfall events cause flooding near roadways and bridges because of the large volume of rocks and boulders that washed into normally clear creek bottoms during the hurricane. 

“Those creeks can no longer carry as much water as they could before the hurricane filled them with sediment and large rocks.” – said Joe Ambrose, Property Owner

This has many asking what the state will do to prevent future flooding and premature road damage.

At least one resident, interviewed for this news report, wants the state to improve communication so the people affected by the disaster, or future disasters, can work together with the government to make repairs, preserve the environment, and help the whitewater community.

“I believe great progress has been made. However, the environmental aspect of things is a concern and the effect on our whitewater community is a concern. I know we are all trying to make this work the best way that we possibly can with whatever resources and wits we have about us during this time. This time is very tedious for us all, and we need better/more open communication as a whole so we can do this right. It takes listening, communicating, and appreciating one another.” – said Hali Laughren

Laughren organized a successful community meeting with residents and state officials early in the process of highway repairs after the hurricane devastated the area. 

TDOT Meets With Property Owners In Washington And Unicoi Counties, Announces Reduced List Of Properties Targeted For Eminent Domain

A bill was introduced in the current legislative session to stop the use of eminent domain over real property in an expedited manner when the governor exercises so-called “emergency powers.”

 HB 1285 / SB 648 has not been placed on notice as of the date of this news report.

About the Author: David Seal is a retired Jefferson County educator, recognized artist, local businessman, 917 Society Volunteer, and past Chairman of the Jefferson County Republican Party. He has also served Jefferson County as a County Commissioner and is a citizen lobbyist for the people on issues such as eminent domain, property rights, education, and broadband accessibility on the state level. David is also a 2024 winner of The Tennessee Conservative Flame Award & has received an accolade from the Institute For Justice for successfully lobbing the TN legislature to protect property rights. David can be reached at david@tennesseeconservativenews.com.