TDOT Provides Construction Update on SR 111 J-Turn in Putnam County

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is continuing work on the SR 111 J‑Turn safety improvements project in Putnam County, highlighting ongoing construction and upcoming milestones as the project remains on schedule.

Recent Construction Progress:

·         North Median Section: Crews completed backfilling 392 linear feet of reinforced concrete pipe (RCP) and placed approximately 360 tons of surge stone to begin building the J‑Turn radius to grade.

·         South Median Section: Workers completed top-soil stripping to prepare for grading and pipe installation, and installed multiple environmental protection sediment controls (EPSC) throughout the week. In addition, crews have installed storm drainage under the new median crossover. 

Traffic Pattern Updates:

·         The crossover at South Maple Avenue and Old Sparta Road remains closed, with detour signage posted and the temporary traffic pattern fully in effect.

Drivers Should Expect the Following in the Coming Weeks:

·         Continued grading and foundation work across both median sections.

·         Saw‑cutting of existing yellow roadway lines and placement of base stone, which may require intermittent fast‑lane closures on SR 111 during normal work hours.

·         In the next three to four weeks, crews anticipate slow‑lane closures as they finish grading and begin base stone installation along both the northwest and southeast sides of the project.

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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