In March 2013, Eastman reconfirmed its long-term commitment to Kingsport through Project Inspire. Within the project scope, multiyear reinvestments to the Eastman site were identified. One of the adjusted planned investments is a road improvement project involving the closure of Jared Drive to through traffic and the creation of a new roadway, Meadow Park Lane.

To support the road-improvement project, Kingsport is applying for a grant through the State Industrial Access (SIA) program, managed through the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT).

The SIA project is a ‘win-win’ for the community and Eastman. It will:

• Provide residents in West Kingsport an improved roadway connection to the Meadowview area and I-26.
• Move the public roadway farther away from the manufacturing site, thereby increasing public safety.
• Improve access to the new regional fire training facility.
• Allow for the expansion of Eastman’s onsite rail infrastructure to better position the manufacturing site for future growth opportunities and investment.
• Provide Eastman access to additional commercial property and currently inaccessible property.

“We are proud to have Eastman headquartered in Kingsport,” said Deputy City Manager Ryan McReynolds. “This project increases roadway connectivity for residents and allows Eastman to move forward with its growth efforts, which is good for both the company and Kingsport.”

Once the mayor signs the application, it will be submitted to the state for approval. It is expected to take 3-4 years to complete the project. Jared Drive is estimated to close to through traffic in the second half of 2022. Residents should check the city website (www.kingsporttn.gov) and Facebook page (Kingsport Alerts) for updates and any road notifications during the construction process.