Motorists in Fayette County will need to plan for detours as the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has announced a temporary closure of SR 222 over Little Laurel Creek. Starting Monday, September 23, 2024, at 8:00 am, the stretch of road will be shut down to through traffic to facilitate the construction of a new concrete box beam bridge, an essential infrastructure upgrade.
The closure, set to last for about 21 days, is going to reroute drivers primarily to I-40 and SR 59. According to TDOT, while SR 222 is closed, local traffic will still be granted access to their homes and businesses. An attached map provided by TDOT outlines the detours for drivers to navigate the area.
TDOT's commitment to safety extends to reminding drivers "to use all motorist information tools wisely and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before leaving for your destination." They strongly emphasize that no driver should ever tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while operating a vehicle—a statement mirroring our collective responsibility towards roadway safety.
In tandem with these safety guidelines, motorists should recall the importance of the 'Move Over Law,' which was passed in 2006. Failing to adhere, drivers face consequences that are designed, not trivially, with the possibility of up to 30 days in jail and a maximum fine of up to $500, to act as a deterrent for reckless disregard for the law that protects those who work along the highways.
The necessary interruption in daily commutes speaks to the broader understanding of growth and the painstaking maintenance our communal pathways demand. TDOT advises travelers to stay informed on the construction progress and traffic updates throughout the closure period to minimize inconveniences. For those planning to traverse these roads, adjustments in travel times and routes are recommended until the work is completed and SR 222 is reopened.
