Interstate 24 Shellmound Road Bridges Project

History and Background

The project replaces the two bridges serving the I-24 and Shellmound Road interchange area. Construction will be sequenced so that traffic can be maintained while the existing bridges are demolished, new bridge substructures and superstructures are built, roadway work is completed, and the final pavement and markings are installed.

Public Involvement and Engagement

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) hosted a Design Public Meeting on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, for the DB2503 I-24 Shellmound Bridges Project. 

This meeting was held to provide the public an opportunity to review the latest project information and upcoming construction activities, including timelines and anticipated detour routes. The detour routes will be installed, maintained and removed as needed for each bridge for the duration of the Project. Closure durations on Shellmound Road are subject to change but are anticipated to begin during the month of December 2026 (I-24 Westbound Bridge over Shellmound Road) and from December 2026 through August 2027 (Shellmound Road Bridge over I-24 Eastbound (TMA)). Access to properties along Shellmound Road will be provided at all times. Connector road improvements will be in place prior to implementing the detour routes.

I-24 Shellmound Road Bridges Public Meeting Materials                                                                                                                     

I-24 Westbound Concept
I-24 Eastbound Concept
I-24 Westbound Typical Sections
I-24 Eastbound Typical Section
Project Goals
Purpose and Need
Timeline
Proposed Detour Route
How to Provide Comments                                                                                                                                                                                        Public Meeting Presentation

Environment

Environmental studies and field-data collection are identified as early project activities. Following Definitive Design concurrence, the Design-Builder plans to submit the IARAP/404 permit application.

The Design-Builder’s schedule also identifies erosion-control measures during construction, beginning with Phase 1 work on I-24 westbound.

Traffic Impacts

The Design-Builder plans to first fully reconstruct the I-24 westbound right shoulder so it can carry traffic during construction. Traffic would then shift right, using 11-foot travel lanes and 2-foot shoulders, while the work area is protected by portable concrete barrier.

During the Phase 1 I-24 westbound traffic configuration, the Design-Builder plans to complete clearing and grubbing, erosion control, and demolition of the existing I-24 westbound bridge. A Shellmound Road detour will be used for residents south of I-24 during bridge demolition.

Following the demolition of the I-24 westbound bridge, the contractor’s schedule anticipates revised detour routing for residents between the two bridge locations while the Shellmound Road bridge over I-24 eastbound is demolished and replaced.

After demolition of both bridges, grading and drainage work is planned to proceed concurrently at both bridge locations to prepare for substructure construction. The I-24 westbound bridge work is expected to be prioritized because it includes multiple construction phases.

After the applicable permit is received, the Design-Builder plans to extend the I-24 westbound box culvert and complete associated grading and base work in preparation for Phase 2. Following Phase 1 bridge and paving completion, the existing I-24 westbound left shoulder would be reconstructed, and traffic would shift left to allow Phase 2 bridge and roadway work to proceed.

Final work is expected to include driving surface placement, milling and repaving of I-24 and Shellmound Road, and final pavement markings after traffic reaches its final configuration.

Key Project Milestones

• Notice to Proceed / Schedule Data Date: May 15, 2026
• Definitive Design Concurrence: Anticipated mid-September 2026
• IARAP/404 Permit Application: Following Definitive Design concurrence
• Initial Ready for Construction Plans: Anticipated October 2026
• Construction Notice to Proceed: Following Department concurrence on the Ready for Construction plans