TDOT Celebrates Early Completion of Shelbyville Railroad Overpass

NASHVILLE - Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner Gerald Nicely joined state and local officials in Bedford County today to mark the early completion of a new overpass for the Walking Horse and Eastern Railroad. The bridge will cross over the future Shelbyville Bypass and will eliminate a grade level railroad crossing once the new roadway is constructed.

 

"TDOT worked very closely with officials in Shelbyville, Bedford County, and the Bedford County Railroad Authority to develop this project," said Commissioner Nicely. "This overpass will work in conjunction with the Shelbyville Bypass and will provide safer travel conditions for the motorists who will use this new facility."

 

Representative Curt Cobb and Senator Jim Tracy, who were also instrumental in the development of this project, joined Commissioner Nicely at today's ceremonial opening event.

 

"This overpass was not only completed two months ahead of schedule, but it came in under budget," said Representative Cobb. "We will continue working with TDOT on future road improvements in Bedford County."

 

Senator Tracy added, "This is a beautiful addition to Shelbyville's transportation system. It pays tribute to the area's great walking horse heritage and will alleviate potentially unsafe conditions once the bypass is constructed."

 

Construction on the Walking Horse and Eastern Railroad Project began in September of 2007 and was completed in May 2008, two months ahead of schedule. The project's final cost was also more than $17,000 dollars less than the construction bid.

 

Once completed, the Shelbyville Bypass will provide access to new and existing industrial and residential developments in the outer rims of the city and will relieve congestion in the downtown area. For more information about the project, please visit the TDOT website.

 

 

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