TDOT Announces Safety and Resurfacing Improvements on SR 68 in Polk County

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is set to begin a resurfacing project on SR 68 from south of New Stansbury Road to the Georgia State line. The $4.19 million project, being delivered by APAC-Atlantic (Talley Construction), will improve pavement conditions, update roadway markings, and enhance safety through downtown Copperhill. The contract is scheduled for completion by October 31, 2026. Overnight work to adjust storm drain manholes is set to begin soon, weather permitting, to prepare the roadway for asphalt paving and final striping in the coming weeks. As part of this effort, TDOT will implement several adjustments to pavement markings and on-street parking to reduce crashes and improve pedestrian visibility at intersections.

Why These Changes Are Needed:

This stretch of SR 68 has a crash rate nearly ten times higher than expected for current traffic volumes. Existing on-street parking encroaches into intersections, limiting sight distance for both drivers and pedestrians and falls short of current roadway standards. The updated striping plan eliminates parking on the north side of the corridor, widens travel lanes, widens parking on the south side of the roadway, and removes parking near intersections with cross streets to restore visibility and improve safety.

How the Final Layout Was Determined:

After evaluating several options, TDOT determined that shifting travel lanes to the north provides the safest and most practical layout. This alignment improves turning movements at the three-way stop at the Tennessee-Georgia line, particularly for larger vehicles. The plan also maintains on-street parking near the post office and the local drug store, two specific requests from the community, while addressing significant safety concerns throughout the corridor.

The City of Copperhill formally endorsed the revised design through a resolution, and TDOT incorporated these changes into the project plans. "These improvements are important for making downtown Copperhill safer for our residents, businesses, and visitors," said Copperhill Mayor Greg Barker. "The City worked with TDOT to address safety concerns while seeking to retain as many downtown parking spaces as possible. We appreciate TDOT's efforts to move this project forward while considering the needs of our downtown community."

As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for your destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel. Get the latest construction activity traffic updates from the TDOT SmartWay Map. Travelers can also call 511 for statewide travel information.

The Move Over Law was passed in 2006. 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.

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