I-40 Over 8th Avenue Bridges

History and Background

Every two years, TDOT performs a comprehensive inspection and subsequent evaluation of all public bridges across the state in order to determine the status of their working condition and operating limits. These inspections and evaluations are to ensure that bridges are in accordance with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS). The proposed project is needed to address the various structural deficiencies for each of the four bridges, as described by the TDOT Engineering Division, Structures Section, and in the most recently available inspection reports.

TDOT will be using an Alternative Delivery: Construction Manager/General Contractor (CM/GC) method for this bridge replacement project. This delivery method involves a contractor in the design phase to mitigate risk, improve the construction schedule, and streamline the design process.

Traffic Impacts

Weekly lane closure reports can be viewed here: https://www.tn.gov/tdot/news/

From September 2026 until fall 2027, 8th Avenue South southbound underneath I-40 will be reduced to one lane for substructure work. Intermittent lane closures on I-40 from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. are also expected during this time. 

In fall 2027, the project will utilize Accelerated Bridge Construction (ABC) techniques, allowing each bridge to be replaced during three weekend closures of I-40 and 8th Avenue South in both directions with traffic fully restored by 5 a.m. Monday. Two weekend closures are tentatively scheduled for October 2027, with the third in April 2028. The weekend closure dates and detour maps will be posted in the coming months. 

Key Project Milestones*

*Subject to change.

Project Imagery & Visuals

Environment

This solely state-funded highway project qualified for an environmental evaluation under the Tennessee Department of Transportation's current environmental procedures. This evaluation has been documented in a Tennessee Environmental Evaluation Report.

Project Materials

Click here for details on TDOT's Alernative Delivery website.