KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — Motorists in Knoxville should prepare for significant traffic disruptions as bridge repair work begins on James White Parkway this weekend.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation says southbound James White Parkway (State Route 158) will close at 7 p.m. Friday, August 7, and remain closed until 6 a.m. Monday, August 10 while crews perform bridge repairs.
Drivers traveling through downtown Knoxville are encouraged to use Alcoa Highway (U.S. 129/SR 115) or Hall of Fame Drive to bypass the construction zone.
Several ramps connected to James White Parkway and Interstate 40 will also be closed during the work:
- 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)
The closure is the first phase of a month-long bridge repair project that will affect traffic over four consecutive weekends.
Planned Closure Schedule
Southbound Closures
- August 7 through August 10
- August 14 through August 17
Northbound Closures
- August 21 through August 24
- August 28 through August 31
In addition to the weekend shutdowns, drivers may encounter single-lane closures on weeknights throughout the duration of the project.
Transportation officials note that the schedule is weather-dependent and could change if conditions are unfavorable. TDOT says any necessary rescheduling will avoid Tennessee football home game weekends to minimize traffic congestion.
Motorists are urged to allow extra travel time, follow posted detours, and use caution when traveling through work zones where construction crews will be present.
