Work to Begin on Franklin’s East Main Street Bridge Replacement Project

Nashville, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will begin construction activities next week on the replacement of the State Route 6/East Main Street Bridge over the Harpeth River in downtown Franklin.

Awarded to Bell & Associates, this project will fully replace the aging bridge, built in 1929. Along with modernization and enhanced safety, the bridge replacement will bring hydraulic enhancements and improve water flow through the Harpeth River corridor, removing several upstream buildings from the floodplain.

Beginning on Monday, August 24, motorists can expect intermittent flagging operations on the bridge daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. as crews begin preliminary work. When construction and demolition of the bridge begin, one lane of travel in each direction will be maintained with the possibility of intermittent flagging operations during off-peak hours (9 a.m. to 3 p.m.) for activities like moving barrier rail or transporting materials. Any full closure of the bridge for activities like beam setting will occur at night and be publicized in advance. Additionally, no weekend closures to recreational use of the Harpeth River are permitted, and any weekday closures will be provided in advance.

The project is estimated to be complete in summer 2028.

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.