Commuters in Polk County are advised to prepare for traffic disruptions as SR 68 undergoes significant changes. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has confirmed that bridge replacements are needed over US 64 in Ducktown. Wright Brothers Construction Company, Inc. has secured the contract worth approximately $11 million, with an expected completion timeline set for December 2026. During construction, traffic will condense to one lane in each direction on SR 68.
Enhancements from the project await travelers, including greater clearances on US 64 beneath the forthcoming bridges. Motorists will experience a temporary re-routing, all directed onto the remaining SR 68 South bridge. They will then switch to the new SR 68 North bridge while its counterpart, the South bridge, sees reconstruction, as noted by Tennessee Department of Transportation. Preparing for the change, crews are already in motion with traffic control measures.
For two nights, including tonight, July 22, 2025, and the following evening, the construction teams are scheduling intermittent closures on US 64 between 6 PM and 6 AM to facilitate safe demolition activities. These are giant steps meant to pave the way for new construction and improved infrastructure, recommended for their journey. Drivers should anticipate delays and exercise caution through the work zones.
With these enhancements come precautions. TDOT urges drivers to stay informed about their routes using tools like the TDOT SmartWay Map before setting out. "Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel," they remind the public, per TDOT. Updates on traffic due to the construction activities will maintain availability for travelers through this map or by calling 511 for broader statewide travel information. These activities could be delayed if the weather turns foul or other unforeseen events occur.
