TDOT Provides Construction Update on SR 111 J-Turn in Putnam County

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is continuing work on the SR 111 J-Turn safety improvements project in Putnam County, highlighting ongoing construction and upcoming milestones as the project remains on schedule.

Work Completed Last Week:

Crews continued shaping the ground on both sides of SR 111 to prepare for upcoming roadway improvements. Workers finished smoothing and stabilizing the slopes on the northwest side and continued cutting and shaping the slopes on the southeast side. Crews also placed straw and erosion-control materials and prepared the ground for the first layer of roadway base stone.

Upcoming Closure:

On Tuesday, August 25, 2026, TDOT will close the median at Old Sparta Road and South Maple Avenue to support ongoing construction activities. The median will remain closed for the duration of the project. Detour signage will be in place directing drivers around the closure.

Over the next several weeks, drivers may notice the following:

· Next Week: Crews will begin stripping topsoil in the median and will start placing a thin layer of base stone on the southeast side of the project.

· In Two Weeks: Work will continue in the median, where crews will construct the internal turn lanes that will become part of the J-Turn configuration.

· In Three to Four Weeks: Drivers may see brief lane closures while crews cut into the pavement and install drainage pipes and concrete structures in the median.

As always, motorists are reminded to use TDOT's motorist information tools and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before departing. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on the phone while driving. For the latest updates, visit the TDOT SmartWay Map or dial 511 for statewide travel information.

Tennessee's Move Over Law requires drivers to move over for highway workers and emergency vehicles. Violations may result in up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $500.

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