State Lawmakers advocate for Elvis Presley Blvd. Project Funding

Returning a key Project to the Radar

In a move that promises to breathe life back into a stalled project, state lawmakers have pledged to restore funding for the Elvis Presley Blvd Project. The multi-million-dollar makeover of the iconic Elvis Presley Boulevard, which was potentially on pause, will be reprioritised, according to State Representative Karen Camper and State Senator Raumesh Akbari.

The two have disclosed plans to hold a meeting with TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley to articulate the imperative nature of the Elvis Presley Boulevard project. The ultimate objective: to have the boulevard refurbishment included in the TDOT’s proposed budget for the coming year.

Loss of Funding Puts Project on Hold

Since the last decade, there have been plans to widen and aesthetically enhance this approximately three-mile segment of Elvis Presley Boulevard, starting from Brooks Road to Shelby Drive. The first phase of this beautification project was successfully concluded in 2021.

However, the rest of the proposed project, whose subsequent phase was to commence this summer, was put in limbo after the state transportation officials suspended its funding. Around $20 million had been earmarked for this project’s second segment, which stretches from Winchester to Craft Road.

It was a significant loss, considering the echelons of community leaders, business owners, and stakeholders who had awaited the completion of the project. Most of the businesses that initially supported the initiative are no more.

A Typhoon of Shock

The decision to halt the project’s funding was met with shock and disbelief by city leaders who only recently learned about the development. Public Works Director Robert Knecht sharply criticized the abrupt decision, expressing his bewilderment at the lack of communication regarding the project’s termination.

The issue at hand, according to many leaders, resulted from funded projects not being ready for unrestricted implementation. Therefore, TDOT decided to either hold the funds or redirect them while waiting for city leaders to commence the project.

Revamped Efforts to Save the Elvis Presley Blvd

Despite the challenges, a wave of optimism filled with a determination not to let the project die has emerged. State Representative G.A. Hardaway and other state and local leaders have highlighted the project’s importance for Whitehaven community residents and tourism.

The city council plans to do everything it can to make sure the city plays its part in advocating for residents. In addition, efforts are underway to make the famous roadway a priority as plans for the upcoming budgetary allocation get underway.

Lawmakers, residents, and stakeholders are being urged to keep those in authority accountable and to speak out, helping to ensure that the Elvis Presley Boulevard project does not fall by the wayside.

This renewed momentum suggests that state lawmakers’ determination to push forward the cause of the Elvis Presley Boulevard development may restore the project to TDOT’s radar. The restoration of this national icon to its past glory would undoubtedly serve as a testament to the effectiveness of coordinated civic engagement.

Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER

The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.