Motorists traveling on Interstate 24 through Coffee County, Tennessee, will face weekend-long detours due to a shutdown at Exit 111 for Manchester and McMinnville as workers tear down the initial span of two bridges.
Crews Demolish Bridge During Weekend Interstate Closure
The closure on I-24 between Chattanooga and Nashville was set to begin at 9 p.m. CDT Friday, with the freeway expected to reopen to traffic by 6 a.m. Monday, according to the state Department of Transportation. During the work, the related portion of Highway 55 also will be closed.
Transportation department officials explained in a release that workers would spend the weekend tearing down the interchange’s first bridge slated for replacement. Crews will initially replace the Highway 55 south bridge, whereas the subsequent takedown of the Highway 55 north bridge along with another interstate shutdown will be scheduled at a later date. Authorities noted that motorists driving along I-24 throughout the shutdown will be guided around the interchange construction via the Exit 111 entry and exit ramps.
Drivers Face New Traffic Pattern After Reopening
Authorities stated that once Highway 55 becomes operational again on Monday, motorists will navigate a revised layout where traffic for both lanes is routed onto the standing north bridge, maintaining a single lane for each direction. Beginning Monday morning, travelers on I-24 attempting to reach Manchester will be forced to use Exits 110 or 114 instead.
Drivers should plan ahead, expect delays and seek out alternate routes during the work. Electronic roadside boards will notify motorists of modifications, while construction zone signs will guide cars along the designated detour routes. 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.
