Bridge Repair Prompts James White Parkway Closure in Downtown Knoxville

Motorists traveling on James White Parkway (State Route 158) and I-40 in Knox County should be aware of upcoming road construction activities that will have a significant impact on traffic.

Beginning at 7 p.m. on Friday, August 14, James White Parkway will be closed to southbound traffic as bridge repairs are performed. Motorists can bypass the work zone by using Alcoa Highway (US 129/SR 115) or Hall of Fame Drive. This closure will be in place until 6 a.m. on Monday, August 17.

The following ramps will be closed during these James White Parkway bridge repair activities:

• Baxter Avenue to I-275 South
• I-275 South to I-40 East
• Henley Street to I-40 East
• I-40 East to James White Parkway south (Exit 388A)
• I-40 West to James White Parkway south (Exit 388A)

This is the first of four weekends of James White Parkway closures. Closures for southbound traffic will take place August 14-17 and August 21-24, and closures for northbound traffic will occur August 28-31 and September 11-14.

Single-lane closures are also possible on weeknights throughout this bridge repair project. This schedule is contingent on favorable weather conditions. Should any of this work require rescheduling, it will not take place during a Tennessee football home game weekend.

Motorists are advised to use extreme caution in this area as workers will be present. 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.