Blasting Begins on I-65 Widening Project

Nashville, Tenn. - The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will begin blasting operations associated with the Interstate 65 Phase 3 Widening & Improvements Project in Davidson and Sumner Counties.

Starting Wednesday, March 11, contractors will begin these operations to move forward on the next phase of this interstate widening project. These operations will first occur on the south side “bottom bench” of this project (radius map here). Blasts are expected to occur at least two to three times per week for two to three weeks. Blasting on the north side “bottom bench” and the “top bench” of this project (radius map here) will not occur until at least April.

Blasts are only permitted on weekdays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. A rolling roadblock on I-65 near mile marker 96 - 99 will be in place in both directions during the blast. All blasting will comply with the state fire marshal’s office regulations. More information about blasting can be found on the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance website.

This work is part of TDOT’s I-65 Phase 3 Widening & Improvements project, which began construction in March 2025. In addition to adding a travel lane in each direction, this work includes the replacement of bridges over US-31W, Long Hollow Pike, East Cedar Street, and Mansker Creek, as well as other improvements.

All work is weather-dependent. As always, drivers are reminded to allow additional time, slow down, and move over when traveling through a work zone. The Move Over Law was passed in 2006. The penalty for violating the law in Tennessee includes the possibility of up to 30 days in jail and a maximum fine of $500.

Motorists can report potholes to TDOT by calling the TDOTFIX Hotline at 833-TDOTFIX or using this online form: TDOT Maintenance Request. The TDOT SmartWay Map (https://smartway.tn.gov) provides the latest traffic updates on construction activity. Travelers can also call 511 for travel information.