TDOT Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for US 127 (SR 28) Project in Clarkrange, Fentress County

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner Will Reid joined federal, state, and local partners today to celebrate completion of the US 127 (SR 28) improvements in the Clarkrange community of Fentress County. The 3.2‑mile, $85.6 million project, delivered by Jones Brothers Contractors, LLC, was finished on schedule on August 31, 2026.

“This investment reflects TDOT’s commitment to building safer, more reliable rural corridors,” said TDOT Commissioner Will Reid. “Upgrading US 127 supports the daily needs of our communities while preparing the region for future growth.”

The work upgrades US 127 (South York Highway) from a two‑lane rural road to a modern five‑lane facility with improved drainage, paved shoulders, sidewalks, and curb‑and‑gutter. At the SR 28/SR 62 intersection, new turn lanes, updated pavement markings, and new traffic signals enhance safety and mobility.

A portion of the corridor shifts to a new alignment to accommodate the new 1,425‑foot Clear Creek bridge, a ten‑span concrete structure with wider travel lanes and shoulders. The project also includes a retaining wall and rehabilitation of the existing Clear Creek bridge.

These improvements strengthen safety, traffic flow, and overall roadway conditions for nearly 7,000 daily motorists, supporting long‑term transportation and economic growth in Fentress and surrounding counties. This work is one of four coordinated projects along the US 127 (SR 28) corridor advanced through the Transportation Modernization Act to improve rural mobility in the Upper Cumberland.

As always, motorists are reminded to use TDOT’s motorist information tools and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before departing. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on the phone while driving. For the latest updates, visit the TDOT SmartWay Map or dial 511 for statewide travel information.

Tennessee’s Move Over Law requires drivers to move over for highway workers and emergency vehicles. Violations may result in up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $500.

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