Traffic on Interstate 24 in Coffee County, Tennessee, will be rerouted next weekend for a closure at Exit 111 for Manchester and McMinnville so crews can demolish the first of two bridges.
The closure on I-24 between Chattanooga and Nashville was set to begin at 9 p.m. CDT Friday, Nov. 6, and the freeway should be reopened to traffic at 6 a.m. Nov. 9, according to the state Department of Transportation. During the work, the related portion of Highway 55 also will be closed.
(READ MORE: Losing bidder claims state changed terms on I-24 toll lane project)
Over the weekend, crews will demolish the first of two bridges to be replaced at the interchange, a statement from the transportation department said. The Highway 55 south bridge will be replaced first, while the demolition of the Highway 55 north bridge and a second interstate closure will be announced later.
I-24 traffic during the closure will be rerouted at the Exit 111 entrance and exit ramps to bypass the interchange work, officials said. The work will create a new traffic configuration.
NEW PATTERN MONDAY
When Highway 55 reopens, drivers will encounter a new traffic pattern with both directions being shifted onto the existing north bridge, one lane in each direction, officials said. Starting that morning, motorists on I-24 headed to Manchester will be directed to Exits 110 or 114.
(READ MORE: I-24 west widening project price tag increases by $300M)
Drivers should plan ahead, expect delays and seek out alternate routes during the work. Interstate message boards will alert drivers to changes, and signage in the work area will direct traffic through detours.
Drivers are reminded to check the latest information on travel conditions before leaving. Get the latest traffic updates from the TDOT SmartWay Map or call 511 for statewide travel information.
The Move Over Law passed in 2006 requires drivers approaching stopped emergency or stranded vehicles to move over, if safe to do so, or slow down to a safe speed in construction zones. The penalty for violating the law in Tennessee carries the possibility of up to 30 days in jail and a maximum fine of up to $500.
Contact infrastructure and transportation reporter Ben Benton at bbenton@timesfreepress.com or 423-757-6569.
Note: This story was corrected on Oct. 31 to reflect that the construction work will begin Nov. 6.