News Summary
Significant traffic disruptions are anticipated this weekend as the Tennessee Department of Transportation commences a bridge replacement project on I-275 in Knox County. Starting Friday night, the interstate will be closed in both directions for several days. Motorists are urged to plan alternative routes to mitigate congestion caused by ongoing construction efforts aimed at enhancing roadway safety and reliability.
Knoxville – Major traffic disruptions are expected this weekend as the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) begins a significant bridge replacement project on I-275 in Knox County. Starting at 7 p.m. on Friday, July 18, the interstate will be closed in both directions until 6 a.m. on Monday, July 21. Motorists are urged to prepare for these closures and consider alternative routes to avoid the construction zone.
The closures are necessary to facilitate the replacement of the bridge over Elm Street and Bernard Avenue, an essential step in ensuring the safety and reliability of this roadway. This will be the second consecutive weekend I-275 has experienced closures for this project, with a third planned for the fall season, emphasizing the ongoing repairs needed for the aging infrastructure.
Drivers can circumvent the affected area by using I-40 and I-640 as alternative routes. TDOT advises that travelers should be aware of potential delays and exercise caution around the construction site, as workers will be present, and conditions may change unexpectedly. Community members are encouraged to utilize motorist information tools available for real-time updates on travel conditions before embarking on their journeys.
The bridge replacement project employs Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) techniques. These advanced methods are designed to optimize the planning, design, and construction processes, allowing for quicker and more efficient work. The use of ABC techniques not only minimizes the time spent on-site but also improves safety for both workers and drivers traveling through the area.
As part of the bridge replacement, upgrades will include raising the clearance under the new structure to 15 feet, 3 inches, thereby improving safety for all types of vehicles. Additional enhancements on Elm Street and Bernard Avenue will follow, such as restriping the roads, upgrading cross slopes on I-275, and improving bike and pedestrian paths along Bernard Avenue.
The projected completion date for the bridge replacement is set for November 15, dependent on favorable weather conditions. As work progresses, TDOT will continue to monitor and inform the public regarding any changes to the schedule or traffic impacts.
I-275, originally constructed in 1954, is vital to the region, accommodating approximately 75,000 vehicles daily. The bridge replacement is part of a broader effort to ensure the infrastructure meets current safety standards and can handle ongoing traffic demands. While residents and daily commuters acknowledge the inconveniences posed by the weekend closures, many express their understanding of the necessity for such essential repairs and improvements.
Local drivers recommend utilizing back roads and alternative exits where possible to navigate around the construction. In a time when traffic congestion can easily escalate, being proactive in planning routes can save time and reduce frustration for all who travel through the area.
As preparations continue for the weekend’s closures, all drivers are reminded to avoid distractions like texting or using a cell phone while behind the wheel. Staying informed and focused will contribute to a safer travel experience for everyone.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Interstate 275 in Knoxville to Reopen After Bridge Work
I-275 Closure for Critical Bridge Replacement in Knoxville
Additional Resources
- Knox News: I-275 Construction Closure
- Wikipedia: Traffic Congestion
- WATE: Drivers React to I-275 Closure
- Google Search: I-275 Closure Knoxville
- WBIR: I-275 Bridge Closure July 2025
- Google Scholar: Interstate Bridge Replacement Techniques
- WATE: I-275 Bridge Replacement Information
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Infrastructure Improvement
- Hoodline: I-275 Weekend Closures Alert
- Google News: Knoxville Bridge Construction
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
