TDOT Breaks Ground on US 64 Widening in Hardin County
Construction begins on the last piece of the 266 mile route from Memphis to Chattanooga
JACKSON, Tenn. – Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner John Schroer joined state and local officials today in Hardin County to mark a major milestone in efforts to complete the US 64 corridor, breaking ground on the last widening project.
The department started planning for the expansion of this strategic corridor in 1986. Studies in the 1970s revealed a need to provide a four-lane that would enhance public infrastructure and safety, as well as facilitate growth and economic development opportunities in this rural and economically distressed area.
“US 64 is a major transportation facility connecting cities and communities along the southern half of Tennessee,” Commissioner Schroer said. “The route plays a significant role in the local and regional transportation system.”
The 266 mile highway runs from I-40 in Shelby County to I-24 in Grundy County. The route travels through ten counties, five of which are in West Tennessee. TDOT has invested $1.26 billion in this strategic corridor. The project is approximately five miles and will complete the 266 mile route from Memphis to Chattanooga.
The $44 million dollar project was awarded to Delta Contracting Company LLC., and is expected to be completed in October 2017.
Sen. Dolores Gresham (R-District 26) and Rep. David Byrd (R-District 71) represent Hardin County in the Tennessee General Assembly and were on hand for the project groundbreaking, as well as representatives from Congressman Blackburn’s office, Senator Alexander’s office and Senator Corker’s office. Local leaders, including Hardin County Mayor Kevin Davis, City of Savannah Mayor Robert Shutt and our neighboring Wayne County Mayor Jason Rich were also in attendance.
For more information on TDOT construction project activity, visit the TDOT SmartWay website at www.tn.gov/tdot/tdotsmartway/. Travelers can also dial 511 from any land-line or cellular phone for travel information or can follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/TN511 for statewide travel information or www.twitter.com/Memphis511 for traffic information in the Memphis area. Smartphone users can download TDOT’s new SmartWay web application at www.TNsmartWay.com/Traffic to access TDOT’s live streaming SmartWay cameras, dynamic message signs, incidents, construction, and road conditions on interstates and state routes.
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