TDOT Stops Construction for Holiday Travelers

Nashville, Tenn.—The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) announced its special holiday construction schedule today. It is designed to ease congestion on Tennessee interstates and major state roadways during the holiday travel period.

“We will have no construction related lane closures on any roadways beginning at midnight December 23. Construction will resume Monday night at 8 p.m., December 26,” said Chief Engineer Paul Degges. “Then we will halt construction again beginning at midnight on Friday December 30, through 8 p.m. on January 2.”

Degges reported that all possible lanes will remain open for holiday travelers for their convenience. “The department wants people traveling on the interstates to get to their destinations safely and with as few disruptions as possible.”

Several long-term construction zone lane closures must remain in place. Some of those locations include:

• In Davidson County, I-40 east and westbound at the Donelson Interchange will remain reduced to 3 lanes.
• In Shelby County, the Jackson Avenue Bridge over I-40 will be closed for replacement.
• In Shelby County, the Faxon Avenue Bridge over I-40 is closed for replacement.

“I urge drivers to use caution for their own safety in construction zones and follow reduced speed limits where posted even when workers are not present. Construction zones often include narrow or uneven lanes that require slower speeds and very alert drivers,” added Degges.

If inclement weather is encountered while driving on Tennessee’s roads, the following winter driving tips are recommended by TDOT:

• Slow down—your car needs three times more space to stop on slick roads.
• Eliminate distractions. Leave your cell phone turned off, but have it ready if
  you need it.
• If it is snowing, raining or foggy to the point where your vision is obscured,
  turn your radio off so that you can listen for the traffic you cannot see.
• Turn on your lights so others will see you coming.
• Maintain a distance of six to eight seconds between your vehicle and the
  vehicle in front of you.
• Be deliberate in maneuvering your vehicle. Most skidding is caused by sudden
  stops and turns.
• If your vehicle skids, don’t hit the brakes. Ease off the accelerator and steer
  into the direction of the skid.
• Never stop on the highway unless absolutely necessary, and then pull off the
  road as far as possible to the right.
• Never drive while fatigued. Stop frequently to take breaks.
• Be prepared. Have tire treads, brakes and wipers checked.