Drivers in Hamilton County should gear up for a slower commute on Market Street as the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) embarks on bridge inspections this week. From Tuesday, June 10, through Thursday, June 12, lane closures will occur from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day.
The TDOT contract crews will do their thing, ensuring the Market Street bridge remains safe and sound, resulting in closed lanes in both directions and some stop-and-go pedestrian traffic on the sidewalks. This necessary inconvenience, however, comes with a heads-up from the Tennessee Department of Transportation, which advised in a statement, "Drivers are encouraged to use caution as they travel through this area and expect delays." And, as with all things reliant on the skies above, this work hinges on good weather, with a rain check (rescheduling) planned if Mother Nature throws a curveball.
For those caught in the gridlock, don't expect to see commuters freely tweeting their frustration behind the wheel. TDOT reminds drivers to abide by safe driving practices, underscoring, "Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel." Besides staying informed about the latest traffic updates via the TDOT SmartWay Map, motorists can dial in statewide travel information by calling 511.
