News Summary

The Tennessee Department of Transportation is hosting two public meetings to discuss the planned widening of the I-24 corridor in Chattanooga. This project aims to increase roadway capacity from four to six lanes across a critical stretch. Residents are encouraged to participate, learn about the project, and provide their input on the initiative, which is expected to enhance traffic flow and safety. Public comments will be accepted until August 2025.

Chattanooga Public Meetings to Discuss I-24 Corridor Widening Project

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is set to host two public information meetings regarding improvements to the I-24 corridor in Chattanooga. The proposed project aims to widen a segment of I-24, increasing capacity from four lanes to six lanes across a critical stretch of roadway. The widening will extend from the interchange of I-24 and I-59 in Dade County, Georgia, to near the I-124 (US-27) interchange located in downtown Chattanooga.

These meetings are designed to inform residents and gather public input on the project, which is part of TDOT’s efforts to improve traffic flow and safety along the I-24 corridor. The two meetings will present the same information, allowing for convenient participation. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the project, view presentation materials, and ask questions. Public comments are being accepted until August 1, 2025, providing ample time for stakeholders to voice their opinions and concerns.

Meeting Details

The two public meetings will take place on:

• Date and Time: [Insert Date and Time 1]
• Date and Time: [Insert Date and Time 2]
• Location: [Insert Location]

Individuals who are unable to attend the meetings in person are encouraged to visit the TDOT project website at www.tn.gov/tdot/projects/region-2/interstate-24.html, where they can access project materials and submit comments online.

Project Scope and Funding

The I-24 corridor widening project is expected to be funded in part through the Transportation Modernization Fund, with state officials allocating approximately $246 million for the planned expansion along a 10-mile stretch of highway from Chattanooga to the Interstate 59 interchange. The first two segments of the widening project, which include areas from the Georgia state line to Exit 175 and from Exit 175 to US-27, are documented in TDOT’s 10-Year Project Plan.

Construction is scheduled to commence in Fiscal Year 2027, following a series of Preliminary Engineering and Environmental Studies that will be conducted along the corridor. These studies aim to address traffic congestion issues, particularly in the Lookout Mountain area, which has been a point of concern for local drivers.

Safety Reminders and Accessibility

As the project approaches its initiation, drivers are reminded to utilize all available motorist information tools and remain updated on travel conditions prior to their journeys. Additionally, the public is urged to minimize distractions while driving, avoiding actions such as texting or tweeting behind the wheel.

In conjunction with the project, Tennessee’s Move Over Law, established in 2006, mandates that drivers must alter their speed or lane position when approaching stationary emergency vehicles on the roadside. Violations of this law can result in penalties, including jail sentences of up to 30 days and fines reaching $500.

For individuals with disabilities who require aids or services to participate in the meetings, they are encouraged to reach out to the TDOT ADA Coordinator, Shanna Chevalier, via email at [email protected] or by phone at (615) 741-0465.

Conclusion

The upcoming public meetings represent an essential opportunity for community engagement in the I-24 corridor widening project. As Chattanooga anticipates significant improvements to its road infrastructure, local residents are encouraged to participate and ensure their voices are heard in this pivotal development endeavor.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Tennessee Allocates $246 Million for I-24 Widening Project

Additional Resources

• Chattanooga Pulse: Public Meetings for I-24 Widening
• Times Free Press: State Allocates $246M for I-24 Widening
• Local 3 News: Weekend Lane Closures for I-24 West
• WGNS Radio: TDOT’s I-24 Smart Corridor
• S Valley Now: New Bridges on I-24
• Wikipedia: Interstate 24
• Google Search: I-24 Widening Chattanooga
• Google Scholar: I-24 Widening Hamilton County
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Interstate 24
• Google News: Chattanooga I-24 Widening

Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER

The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.