294 Top priority on list for resurface in 2008
By Gabby Hudson Staff Writer

The longtime issue of the condition of State Road 294 may soon find a flicker of light at the end of the tunnel.

According to District Engineer Wesley Grindstaff, State Road 294 has been placed on the top priority list for the four westernmost counties in North Carolina.

Grindstaff said that 294 was the only road they listed as a top priority for next years consideration by the state.

"All the funding has not been decided yet," he said. "But I am 99 percent sure this project will be funded.

Grindstaff said the project will not include the bridge crossing Cherokee Lake. The bridge is funded under other projects.

The project will resurface from US 64 to the bridge and from the bridge to Hiwassee Dam Access Road.

The resurfacing will cover 6.44 miles at an estimated cost of $1.7 million.

Grindstaff said that some of the shoulder issues will be addressed during the project.