Latest News

  • South Segment Design Update
    10/7/2024

    The design of the South Segment (Shelby to Craft) is starting up again, having been on pause while several issues related to the design, notably the proposed drainage, were evaluated and coordinated with TDOT. The design team is currently finalizing the drainage design and will then begin setting the segment's Right-of-Way requirements.

    Acquisition of Right-of-Way and easements for this segment should begin in early 2025 and will be taking place concurrently with the construction of the Middle Segment.

  • Middle Segment Construction Coming Soon
    10/7/2024

    The design plans are complete, the Right-of-Way has been acquired, and the funding for the construction phase is set - it's almost time for construction to begin on the Middle Segment, from Craft to Winchester.

    Contractors will be bidding on the work during the month of October, and we expect final review of the bids and contract awards to take place in November and December.

    Additional information can be found on the City website here

  • Underground Electric Relocation Nearing Completion
    10/6/2024

    MLGW crews have been working to relocate electrical lines under Elvis Presley Boulevard from near Graceland to Winchester Road for the last year, and that work is coming to a close. The relocation of these lines are a necessary first step before the construction of the roadway improvements can begin. The current schedule for completion of this work is the end of 2024.

Project History and Purpose

Elvis Presley Boulevard (State Route 3/US 51) serves as both a gateway to an important tourist attraction, Graceland, as well as the major commercial corridor for residents of the Whitehaven community. Commercial decline, with increased vacancies and neglect, has resulted in an increase in crime and a deteriorated appearance along a corridor intended to welcome visitors to both Graceland and the City of Memphis. A variety of economic development plans prepared by local residents, the City and Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. (the company managing Graceland and related attractions) call for improvements along the corridor to spur redevelopment and create a more appropriate and welcoming gateway entrance to Graceland and the City.

Due to the age of the roadway and the heavy levels of truck traffic, the road condition has deteriorated, creating safety issues in the area. Additionally, the high levels of pedestrian traffic associated with Graceland and the lack of both pedestrian-friendly crossings and continuous sidewalks create an unwelcoming and potentially unsafe environment for tourists and other pedestrians moving through the corridor.

Project Description

The project involves almost 3 miles of improvements along Elvis Presley Boulevard, from Shelby Drive to Brooks Road. Projects elements will include:

Roadway Improvements Sidewalks and Crosswalks
Streetscape Improvements Drainage Improvements
Pavement Enhancement) Street Lighting
Bicycle/Pedestrian Improvements Utility Enhancements
Signage Traffic Signals

These will substantially improve the operational, functional, and aesthetic characteristics of the roadway.

Project Drawings

Click on the Images to View Larger Versions

Project Map and Segments


 

Typical Section - North Segment


 

Typical Section - Middle Segment


 

Typical Section - South Segment