TDOT Releases Findings on I-40 Design Analysis in Wilson County

MT JULIET, Tenn. – Tennessee Department of Transportation recently reviewed the I-40 corridor near mile marker 226 in Wilson County at the request of state and local law enforcement following several wet weather crashes. This analysis included crash data, roadway design plans, and an additional road survey known as Light Detection and Ranging, or LiDAR.

This section of I-40 was recently widened, from west of SR 171 (Mt Juliet Road) to east of SR 109, as part of a design-build contract with Lane Construction Corporation. Design-build is a project delivery method that allows a single contractor to provide design and construction services.

Based on the initial data analysis, it is believed that the design-build team did not adequately address storm water runoff or the spread of storm water into lanes of travel. Additionally, TDOT believes the project was not constructed adequately to provide for appropriate water runoff.

As a result of the findings, TDOT has asked the design-builder for an action plan to address these issues. To help address immediate concerns, message boards will be posted to warn motorists of potential ponding of water during inclement weather. A dedicated HELP unit will also be on-site during weather events to shift traffic as needed.

While the design of the roadway is of concern at this location, drivers are reminded of the potential hazards of wet weather on any roadway. No design can immediately accommodate water accumulation during periods of very heavy rainfall or flash flooding events. Motorists on all roadways are urged to use caution and reduce speed in wet conditions.

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