Interstate 75 Interchange at State Route 131

History and Background

Funding for the ROW Appraisal and Acquisition phase was included in TDOT’s 3-year Multimodal Work Program for fiscal year 2022. Once the necessary right-of-way and easements have been acquired, the project will proceed to construction.

Public Involvement and Engagement

A Design Public Meeting was held on Thursday, March 10, 2022, at First Baptist of Powell in Powell, Tennessee, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

Public Display

Key Project Milestones

February 2026: North box culvert extension complete. Construction of the south box culvert extension underway. 42" storm drain jack and bore under existing Emory Road is complete. Storm drainage installation on the south access road ongoing. 20" water line jack and bore under I-75 is complete. Gas line relocation is in progress at two locations. Installation of proposed electric line and power poles is underway. Grading work continues on both north and south access roads. 

December 2025: Advanced warning signs and electronic message boards in place to alert drivers to upcoming lane shifts. Environmental protections for Phase 1 are installed to control erosion and protect nearby streams. Crews have begun grading for new local access road on the south side of Emory Road and are moving soil within the interchange to build up future lanes and ramps. Work is underway on the concrete culvert extension to th enorth of Emory Road. Utility coordination continues and gas line relocation will begin soon. 

Project Imagery & Visuals

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI)?

A DDI is a proven type of interchange where traffic briefly shifts to the left side of the road while crossing a freeway. This design allows vehicles to make free flowing left turns onto freeway ramps without crossing opposing traffic and allows vehicles to make left turns off freeway ramps like turning onto a one-way street.

Why is a DDI being used instead of a traditional interchange?

DDIs are built because they:

• Have been shown to significantly reduce crashes, especially severe ones, because they eliminate dangerous left-turn conflicts.
• Handle higher traffic volumes more efficiently.
• Allow for smoother left turns onto freeways without crossing oncoming traffic.
• Often cost less and take less time to build than traditional interchanges.

How do I drive through a DDI?

• Follow the signs and pavement markings.
• As you approach the traffic signals, you will be guided to the left side of the road.
• Drivers going straight will continue through the signals.
• Drivers turning left onto the freeway will enter the on-ramp without crossing opposing lanes.
• Drivers turning right onto the freeway will use a standard right-turn ramp.
• You’ll cross back to the right side through the second signal.

What happens if I miss my turn in a DDI?

Just continue through the interchange and follow signage to safely turn around at the next available point. DDIs are designed with clear lanes that prevent wrong-way movements.

Will pedestrians and cyclists be able to use the interchange?

Yes. The DDI will include designated sidewalks running along the outside edge. Crosswalks are located at signalized intersections to ensure safe passage.

 Is this design more cost effective than a traditional interchange?

When determined to be the appropriate design, DDIs are more cost effective because they often use the existing bridge structure and require fewer lanes and traffic signals compared to other interchange types.

Where else have DDIs been built?

DDIs are used across the U.S. and internationally. The first U.S. DDI opened in Springfield, Missouri in 2009, and since then, dozens have been successfully built across the country. Here in East Tennessee, there are 3 existing DDIs: 1) I-26 at SR 354 Boones Creek Road in Washington County, 2) I-40 at SR 66 Winfield Dunn Parkway in Sevier County, and 3) SR 115/US 129 Alcoa Highway at W. Bessemer Street in Blount County

What are the traffic impacts during construction?

Construction will require temporary lane shifts, reduced speeds, and short-term closures. Once complete, the DDI will provide long-term improvements in safety and traffic flow.

Will emergency vehicles, trucks, and buses have issues navigating the DDI?

No. DDIs are designed to accommodate large vehicles, including semi-trucks and buses. Emergency services are also trained on the layout to ensure safe and efficient use.

 Where can I find more information?

TDOT will provide regular updates through this project website, email communication, media announcements, and community outreach. Specific questions can be emailed to TDOT.EmoryRoadDDI@tn.gov.