Knoxville/ Transportation & Infrastructure
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Published on October 02, 2024
Tennessee and North Carolina Enforce Commercial Traffic Restrictions on "The Dragon" Post-Hurricane HeleneSource: Google Street View

In the wake of Hurricane Helene, drivers might want to think twice before taking their usual shortcuts through East Tennessee and Western North Carolina, particularly along US 129, known colloquially as "The Dragon." This notorious stretch of road, with its serpentine twists and turns, is now off-limits to large commercial vehicles. According to Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), an increase in commercial traffic has been noted, likely as an attempt to bypass flood-affected areas.

As per TDOT's alert, there's a strict prohibition on trucks with trailers exceeding 30 feet in length, as well as on single units over the same length on "The Dragon" through both Tennessee and North Carolina. This measure intends to prevent logjams and potential accidents on a road that's ill-equipped for heavyweight confrontations with its sharp curves and narrow lanes. Drivers should take heed of these restrictions to avoid complications during their travel through this scenic yet challenging corridor.

The legacy of Hurricane Helene continues to impose restrictions on transportation in the region; numerous roads connecting East Tennessee to Western North Carolina still bear her scars in the form of closures due to damage. This continues to affect the rhythm of life and commerce, rerouting not just paths on the map, but trajectories of people's daily existences.

For those on the move, TDOT suggests a detour strategy. Thru traffic in Tennessee should modify their travel route which involves taking I-81 North to Virginia, subsequently switching to I-77 South to re-enter North Carolina. Such detours, while inconvenient, are necessary stitches in the tapestry of post-hurricane recovery and infrastructure repair. Always, and especially now, the voracious reader of the roads is advised to "Know Before You Go!" – checking up on travel conditions before setting off and, of course, keeping their eyes on the road rather than on their mobile devices.