The Maryville City Council is looking to reduce the speed limit on East Lamar Alexander Parkway from the intersection with Washington Street to the city limits near Waters Road (about a quarter mile past Little River Trading Company). The speed limit is currently 50 mph and will be changed to 45 mph.

As part of a recent traffic impact study, it was determined a 45-mph speed limit is more consistent with an urban, curb and gutter roadway with a center turn lane and multiple driveway openings spaced very close together.

The speed limit on East Lamar Alexander Parkway past the Washington Street intersection, towards town, is already 40 mph or less, depending on location.

Now if the City of Alcoa would take a lesson from Maryville and lower the speed limit on Alcoa Highway. Better yet, add a traffic light.