Motorists in Hamilton County need to prepare for a significant detour and potential delays caused by road work on Interstate 24. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has announced temporary lane and ramp closures, part of the ongoing improvements to the I-75 at Ithe -24 interchange. According to TDOT, closures will start on Saturday, December 20, 2025, and they aim to completely and thoroughly pave various sections of this transportation artery, an essential phase of the widening project.
From 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM on December 20th, I-24 East's right lane will be shut down between mile markers 183 and 185, though three lanes will remain open. Exit 184 (South Moore Road) off I-24 East and Exit 183 (Belvoir Avenue) off I-24 West will also be temporarily closed. Travelers will need to use Exit 183 and Exit 184 as alternatives to access South Terrace and North Terrace, respectively. This move is set to quickly finish the necessary shoulder paving and also complete ramp paving.
TDOT plans more closures into the night—starting 9:00 PM until 6:00 AM—which involves closure of the two right lanes on the I-75 North ramp at the I-24 East and I-75 interchange near Exit 185, while the two left lanes will be closed on the I-75 South ramp. I-24 East will also see closures between mile markers 183 and 185, with two lanes remaining open to traffic. These disruptions are a prerequisite for the completion of the aforementioned paving works, paving the way to a smoother and more efficient travelling experience in the future.
Drivers who need to use these routes during these times should plan to depart earlier than usual and be ready for the inconvenience. The official recommendation is to follow all posted signage and stay alert to dynamic traffic conditions. To avoid any additional hindrances, TDOT encourages motorists to "Know Before You Go!" by checking the TDOT SmartWay Map for the latest construction activity traffic updates or calling 511 for statewide travel information. As ever, the communication underlines that tweeting, texting, or talking on a cell phone while driving is not only dangerous but illegal.
Furthermore, Tennessee's Move Over Law urges drivers to shift over when approaching any vehicle with flashing lights by the side of the road to prevent incidents and protect those who work and travel along the highways. Violations of this law may indeed result in up to 30 days in jail or a $500 fine. This restriction plays a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of both road workers and commuters, underscoring the broader responsibility each driver bears on the thoroughfares that carve across our shared land.
