SR 53 (Hurricane Branch Culvert Replacement)

On February 15, 2025, a significant rain event took place in Jackson County and severely damaged the inlet sections of twin 15-foot-diameter metal pipes. The damage resulted in the collapse of the northbound shoulder, forcing the closure of both the shoulder and the adjacent travel lane to remain in compliance with TDOT and FHWA safety regulations. Two-way travel is currently maintained by utilizing both the southbound lane and shoulder for traffic. Within days, a multidisciplinary project team was assembled to develop a repair design as quickly and efficiently as possible to replace the damaged pipes and prevent further failure, avoiding an unplanned long-term road closure. 

The project team ultimately selected a repair option that prioritized safety and minimized closure duration. The chosen approach utilizes a large pre-cast concrete structure, which significantly reduces construction time and allows all work to remain within the existing right-of-way. This approach minimizes environmental permitting requirements and eliminates delays associated with right-of-way acquisition. While the use of a pre-cast structure of this size is innovative, pre-cast elements have proven successful on similar TDOT projects for accelerating construction timelines. The duration of the closure for this option is contractually limited to 50 days.

Current Status: A significant amount of work is required before the closure. These work activities could begin as early as mid-November. No date has been scheduled for the closure at this time. Updates will be posted to this site, with at least 2 weeks’ notice provided prior to the closure. TDOT will continue to coordinate closely with local emergency services, schools, and government officials before and throughout construction to minimize disruption and reinstate essential access as quickly as possible.

Estimated construction start: November 2025

Estimated completion*: Summer 2026

Project Contacts

Rae Anne Bradley
TDOT Region 2 Regional Communications Officer (media)
Phone: (423) 510-1164
Email: Rae-Anne.Bradley@tn.gov

Bo Hoskins
TDOT District 27 Engineer                                                                                                                                                                                  Phone: (931) 526-4522
Email: Bo.Hoskins@tn.gov

*Subject to change