State Route 115 (US 129, Alcoa Highway)

• Construction of two new roundabouts
• Construction of two bridges
• Construction of 23 retaining walls
• Lighting upgrades
• Utility installation and relocation
• Traffic signal upgrades
• SmartWay traffic connectivity
• Rock excavation

The project will widen the existing roadway for approximately 1.6 miles increasing the roadway to six lanes (three in each direction) and modifying the existing interchange at Cherokee Trail and the UT Medical Center. The improvements will increase capacity, correct roadway deficiencies and provide upgrades to lighting, signals and SmartWay Traffic systems.

During phase 1, construction activities will predominately take place outside of the existing lanes. Motorists should expect to see channelizing devices throughout the project. A barrier wall and safety fencing are to be placed along the outside shoulders. Changes to alignments throughout the project will be communicated in advance.

Modifications will be made to the Cherokee Trail/Alcoa Highway Interchange. These changes will include new entrance and exit ramps as well as new signalized intersections. TDOT has made every effort to plan the construction of the interchange in such a way as to maximize construction work outside of existing roadways and minimize any work that might impact the roadways providing access.

Access to all businesses, recreational areas and service providers within the project will be always maintained throughout the project.

The contractor will be reconstructing Lifestar Road in three phases over 12 months in phase 1 construction.

Lane closures for overnight work are anticipated. Uniformed officers will be present. Rolling roadblocks are anticipated during daytime non-peak hours.

 Local roadways, streets and interchanges will be kept open to the greatest extent possible.

Changeable message signs will be utilized for motorist notification for traffic impacts.

Notice of activities will be posted to the project web page and shared through email communication.

A greenway will be constructed from Marine Park to Montlake Drive to provide a connection to the Knox-Blount Greenway along Alcoa Highway.

The project will implement a Smart Work Zone, much like that of the TDOT SmartWay system utilizing cameras, radar and message boards. This system will be utilized to alert motorists of any unexpected delay.

Yes, a portion of the rock bluff along the northbound lanes will require blasting to aid in its removal to widen this section.

A licensed professional blaster is responsible for the blasting performed on the project. This portion of work will consist of controlled blasts necessary to allow the contractor to remove the rock within the designated area.

According to state regulations, surface blasting operations will only be conducted during daylight hours.

Rolling roadblocks will be utilized by the contractor to establish appropriate clear zones while blasting is performed. Rolling roadblocks should be anticipated to last approximately 20 minutes. TDOT has limited these activities to off-peak hours to further minimize any impacts to traffic.

Blasts are not typically felt outside of the immediate area. Most of the energy from the blast will be absorbed and used to break rock, but some energy will travel from the blast site in the form of ground and air waves.

 Properties nearby may feel a slight vibration or hear noise similar to a thunderstorm. Blasts will be kept to a manageable size to minimize unnecessary disruption or concern. Blasters will also follow regulatory protocol to ensure safety.

TDOT will provide regular updates through the project website, email communication, media announcements and community outreach. Specific questions can be emailed to TDOT.US129@tn.gov.