From the responsibilities of its elected officials to how Knoxvillians can get involved, here’s everything you need to know about local government in the 865. | Photo via City of Knoxville
What would you do with 52 hours? Sit in traffic, apparently. That’s the average time commuters in Knoxville lost to traffic congestion in 2024, which is 15% worse than the year previous.
By the numbers
According to a recent report from Texas A&M Transportation Institute, a trip that would take 20 minutes without traffic takes...
24 minutes with traffic
25 minutes in the peak direction
32 minutes to plan for a punctual arrival
When is the worst time to drive?
Traffic is at its worst between 3 and 6 p.m. on weekdays. In the morning, 7-9 a.m. can also be dicey.
But the hands-down worst time to commute? 4-6 p.m. on a Thursday. 3.2% of the area’s weekly delay happens around then.
When is the best time to drive?
Technically, that would be around midnight. But if you work a nine-to-five, here’s our advice:
Head to work by 7 a.m. or wait until 9 a.m.
If you can leave work early, head out by 2 p.m.
If your boss is watching, you’ll need to stay at your desk until at least 6 p.m. Or grab a nearby bite from a happy hour spot, and wait out the traffic until 7 p.m.
What about public transit?
Hop on the bus, Gus. At least you aren’t footing the gas bill.
Bicycling is also a great option. Good for traffic congestion... and your calves.
The school’s campus sits on 83-acres. | Photo provided by Currey Ingram Academy
Preparing students for the future starts with the right foundation. Enter:Currey Ingram Academy.
Located in Nashville, the JK-12 day and boarding school empowers students with learning differences to achieve their fullest potential. With a 100% college acceptance rate, here are just some of the ways students find success:
Small class sizes and individualized learning plans for each student
Strong arts, athletics, and extracurricular activities for all skill levels
Postsecondary preparation, including college counseling and workplace readiness
Looking for elections results? See the latest updates from WBIR.
Eat
Three local restaurants were recommended among the Michelin guide’s first regional list for the American South. Congratulations to J.C. Holdway and Potchke Deli in Knoxville + The Restaurant at RT Lodge in Maryville.
Did you know the Bijou Theatre building (once the Lamar House Hotel) is reportedly one of the most haunted buildings in downtown Knoxville? Bistro at the Bijou is celebrating its 45th anniversary. (Knox News)
Number
$5 million. That’s how much Gov. Bill Lee has allocated from state funds to support food banks across Tennessee. (WBIR)
Community
This Saturday, Nov. 8, Ijams Nature Center will host a Homecoming celebration in honor of the facility’s 50th anniversary. Events include guided hikes, a silent art auction — and a Homecoming King/Queen contest.
Shop
Our version of the perfect fall cardigan features ultra-soft fabric, chunky gold buttons, and a slouchy yet chic silhouette. Think: Daytime errands and date night.*
Regional
Gatlinburg theme park Anakeesta announced a $100 million expansion that will occur over five years — see the renderings for updates to Firefly Village and the Treetop Skyline. (WATE)
Health
Discover sharper hearing and a sharper mind with the Horizon IX hearing aid. Known as “a time machine for the brain,” it supports mental engagement and enhances your cognitive vitality. See if you qualify for a 45-day no-risk trial.*
Featured Deal
Put your business’s message here in as little as two days when you score 15% off your first ad buy on our business promo portal. Redeem your discount with code NEW15 at checkout.
The Buy
The right American Home Shield plan to cover your plumbing, electrical, and heating this winter. For a manageable monthly fee, you can cover the repair or replacement of major home systems. Aka: If you find yourself in need of a new $12,000 gas furnace, you’ll have a coverage plan to turn to. Phew.*
The fun doesn’t have to end here. After reading the newsletter, head over to our games page. Games refresh with new challenges every day at 6 a.m. from crossword puzzle to Sudoku to themed word search.
I was reminiscing recently on the times we used to stop at The Burning Bush restaurant in Gatlinburg, before spending a day driving around Cade’s Cove and hiking the Chimneys.
