Each Monday, we're exploring the bumps and frustrations you may feel while you're hitting the highway.
We received several emails about the construction project at the intersection of Clinton Highway and Merchant Drive in Northwest Knoxville.
Viewer Keith Curd wrote our newsroom, "When will the construction at Clinton Highway and Merchant Drive be completed? Also, what is the purpose of the construction?"
According to city records, the project contract was approved in a December 2017 city council meeting.
Work began in April 2018.
Since then, drivers have been maneuvering through lane shifts, closures and losing several right turning lanes.
And it's giving folks like Keith Curd a headache every time he drives by.
"It makes it hard to get into some of the businesses over there. It's just very inconvenient for a lot of people," said Curd. "I just want to know whats happening. I'm just looking for an easier traffic flow."
Knoxville Engineering Director Jim Hagerman said contractors are building the foundation to improve traffic in the area.
"Because of the way the lanes are aligned the traffic signal cycle is used inefficiently," said Hagerman.
The nearly $3.4 million project will reconfigure the intersection by building better turning lanes, while extending sidewalks along the path.
"Then we can make better use of the time in the traffic signal cycle. So we can move more traffic along in that area," said Hagerman.
For now, the area may seem hectic for some, but Hagerman believes the long term benefits will be worth the headache.
The best advice Hagerman has for drivers is to pack your patience before you hit the roads.
He says the project is on schedule and should be completed in February 2019.