The area along Middle Drive and more specifically, the Engineering Quad near Perkins and Ferris Halls have a significant amount of pedestrian traffic flow. This area has previously been utilized as an access road for delivery and service vehicles. In our ongoing efforts to make the campus more pedestrian friendly, we have installed a vehicle access control gate along Middle Drive just prior to the entrance to Perkins Hall. This access control gate is equipped with a camera, call box, and a proximity ID card reader for vehicles that are granted permission to drive along this portion of Middle Drive.
Access Information
The access control gate will be operational Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. during the fall and spring semesters. The gate will remain in the open position during the following times when pedestrian traffic is minimal:
- on weekends and overnight hours throughout the year
- during the summer
- the week of spring break (see UT Academic Calendars)
- during scheduled holiday and administrative closings
The camera and call box will connect the driver to UTPD Central Alarm. However, unless the driver is on the approved access list they will be denied access. The vast majority of vendors and service vehicles should utilize Circle, Lower, and Estabrook Drives for deliveries in this area, as well as, anyone who desires to be dropped off or picked up.
First responder agencies have been made aware of how to gain access when the gate is in operation. Departments should contact vendors who have utilized the area along Middle Drive and inform them of the new campus restriction.
Submit a Request
Vendors and departments who must have access beyond the gate should initiate a request. All requests will be routed to Campus Operations for review and approval. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office at 974-3061 or utoperations@utk.edu.
- Access must be requested in advance.
- Please ONLY request access if you must use an area that is ONLY accessible off Middle Drive.
- Optional deliveries, drop offs, vendor and service vehicles are strongly suggested to use Circle, Lower, and Estabrook Drives.