MEMPHIS, Tennessee – Motorists in Memphis are bracing for a significant disruption this weekend as the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has announced a major closure on Interstate 55 and 3rd Street for bridge repairs. The closure, beginning Friday, March 15 at 8:00 pm and extending through Monday, March 18 at 6:00 am, will see contract crews working around the clock to remove and install a new bridge beam, in addition to making sidewalk and overhang repairs.
Specifically, the southbound lanes of I-55 will be closed at Mallory Avenue, and a lane on 3rd Street will also be shut down throughout the weekend. Additionally, the entrance ramp from southbound Third Street to I-55 south will be closed to traffic. TDOT has planned a detour route to accommodate affected motorists and minimize disruption. However, all planned work is contingent on favorable weather conditions, and the following weekend has been earmarked as a backup date should any delays arise.
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To aid travelers during this period, TDOT encourages the use of its SmartWay traffic information system, accessible via www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. This online resource offers up-to-the-minute construction activity updates and live streaming of traffic cameras. For those on the move, dialing 511 will provide travel information, and updates are also available through TDOT’s Twitter accounts (@myTDOT for statewide travel and @NicLawrenceTDOT for West Tennessee).
TDOT urges drivers planning to travel through or around the affected area this weekend to plan ahead and remain informed about the latest traffic conditions. In line with promoting road safety, officials remind motorists to avoid distractions such as texting, tweeting, or talking on a cell phone while driving. The temporary inconvenience is a necessary step towards ensuring the long-term safety and reliability of this critical infrastructure in Memphis.
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