POWELL, Tenn. — For some people in Powell, the reasoning behind one particular project is still tough to navigate.
A new roundabout in Powell was originally intended to address traffic concerns and improve the area's infrastructure but is now the focus of a large social media group's jabs and jeers. It is located near Crowne College and Temple Baptist Church, and cost the county around $3.2 million. Work recently finished on it, and crews unveiled an unexpected twist — workout equipment.
Three workout stations are located around the roundabout, featuring a suite of different kinds of equipment. While cars whizz by, the "workout-about" invites people to swing from some monkey bars or stretch on balance beams.
"It is 100% a laughingstock," said Jessica Haney.
"I just have to shake my head and ask, 'Why?' And that's the big question everybody, everyone, wants to know," said Sherri Garrett. "Why on a roundabout, do you put workout equipment?"
They are both members of the "Powell Roundabout Uncensored" group, which has grown to around 4,000 members. Some members have t-shirts advertising the "workout-about fitness center."
"We've developed a lot of camaraderie in our feelings about this, and we all pretty much feel the same way about it," said Garrett.
A contract with Whaley Construction LLC, passed in August 2022, gave construction crews the go-ahead on the "Brickyard Roundabout Project." The contract says the scope of work included "grading, base, paving, drainage, roundabout, sidewalk, multi-use path, signing, marking, lighting, landscaping, and workout equipment" for the project.
Some people in the Powell community said they are concerned the workout equipment near the roundabout could lead to severe crashes.
"Someone's speeding through here, jumps the curb, and hits the workout equipment with people using it," said Garrett.
Knox County Commissioner Rhonda Lee, who represents the Powell area, said she is planning to discuss having the workout equipment moved to a nearby park.
"The worst case scenario, someone's gonna get killed," said Lee.
She was voted into the office after the contract passed.