Highway 127, which winds its way up the front of Signal Mountain, is now traversing the stages of a study to determine possible roadway improvements and associated costs.
“The roadway is narrow and curvy and there are areas that are prone to settlement and/or rock fall,” said Tennessee Department of Transportation communications officer Jennifer Flynn. “It is the main road up Signal Mountain, and there are no good alternate routes should the road ever be closed for any reason.”
Recent washouts and rock slides have previously affected the road, limiting travel and leaving residents concerned about safety.
“Really, our priority is that it’s safe,” said Town Manager Honna Rogers. “A lot of people drive across [the mountain] to go to work in Chattanooga. We’re [town residents] just a percentage of the people who use [the road].”
Councilman Dick Gee agreed that the safety issue must be a major focus for the town.