Actually it is awesome. I would know as a graduate. He made the choice he thought was best. As well there are no projects next to it....they've been gone since before the Olympics. The area has been significantly upgraded with the development of The Atlantic Station (shops, homes, condos, etc) and new dormitories. The campus has also spread across the highway into the midtown area.
Knoxville has nature and environment (appreciated that more at 30 with a family). GT has a faster past, many opportunities to make national, if not global contacts.....definitely plenty of beautiful women....And guys that actually visit know it.
Athletically.....Tennessee is obviously the better Football school and has better Facilities. However, for a technical education with national and global respect......there is no comparison (IMO) between the two...Tech is the way to go. Opportunities afforded me by degree from Tech made the 3 hour trip down I-75 a very good decision.
Oh yeah
.there is plenty of exhaust on I-40
off of I-40 also
from those local cars that couldnt come close to passing an emissions inspections.