Chattanooga Commuters Brace for New Traffic Pattern
Chattanooga, it’s time to buckle up! Starting this Friday night, commuters will find themselves navigating some changes on Interstate 24 that could have a big impact on travel plans. If you’re hitting the roads, here’s what you need to know!
What to Expect This Weekend
Beginning at 9 p.m. on Friday, changes will be set in motion as temporary lane closures take effect. The westbound lanes on I-24 will be reduced from three lanes to two. This construction area will stretch from the Spring Creek Road bridge all the way to the I-24 bridge over Germantown Road. The work is expected to last until Tuesday, November 7, so if you rely on this route, plan accordingly.
But here’s the silver lining: while the westbound lanes may be reduced, I-24 east will remain unaffected, so there’s that!
Why All the Fuss?
This construction is part of a larger $161 million ongoing project aimed at improving the Interstate 75-Interstate 24 interchange—a notorious bottleneck for Chattanooga drivers. The project kicked off back in 2019 and the first phase wrapped up in August 2021. As those of you who drive this route regularly know, the upgrades can’t come soon enough!
To minimize your irritation during this time, the state transportation agency is recommending drivers consider taking alternate routes and to avoid the area if possible. Expect major traffic delays if you must pass through—so everyone, take heed!
Special Cautions for Truck Drivers
Attention truck drivers! If your vehicle towers over 10 feet, avoid using the Bachman Tunnels on Ringgold Road, also known as U.S. Highway 41, in East Ridge. Transportation officials stress following all posted signs and staying alert, as conditions can change quickly.
Keep Your Cool on the Road
It’s important to remember that weather can affect these plans; construction is highly sensitive to changes. If rain or unforeseen circumstances set in, the schedule may shift. But don’t worry—police will be on-site to manage traffic and keep things moving as smoothly as possible.
Local Voices
Ben Partin, a regular attendee at coin shows held at Camp Jordan in East Ridge, is keeping an eye on the situation as he gears up for a coin show this weekend. “I usually check Google Maps for traffic, but I’ll also call the state’s 511 traffic information line as I head out Saturday morning,” he shared. His hope? For clear roads!
Partin, like many, is acutely aware that weekend travelers may experience less congestion, but returning home tends to be another story. However, his backup plan includes the Bachman Tunnel route if he runs into any major backups.
Play It Safe
As this weekend approaches, it’s more important than ever to stay updated on traffic conditions before you hit the road. Don’t forget to take advantage of available tools like the SmartWay Map for construction updates, or give 511 a ring.
And remember, safety first! The Move Over Law, established back in 2006, mandates that drivers either slow down or move over when approaching emergency or utility vehicles. Keep this in mind to protect all road users, because a fine isn’t the only downside to endangering others!
So, gear up for the changes ahead, Chattanooga! Stay safe, stay informed, and happy driving!
