The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has announced a significant closure that will impact travelers across the Mississippi River. Starting from Sunday, March 10, at 8:00 pm through Sunday, March 24, at 8:00 pm, the I-55 Mississippi River Bridge will be closed to traffic to facilitate ongoing construction activities related to the I-55 and Crump interchange.
During this two-week period, contract crews will undertake hydro-demolition of the bridge deck, followed by the application of a new polymer concrete overlay, a material known for its durability and strict temperature application requirements. The closure marks the first of two planned closures under the current contract, with all work contingent on favorable weather conditions.
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Travelers will face detours as the I-55 southbound will be closed at Bridgeport Road in Arkansas, and the northbound lanes will be closed at South Parkway in Tennessee. However, local traffic will still have access up to the McLemore exit. Additionally, the I-55 southbound ramp, along with Crump Boulevard westbound, will be shut down during the construction phase.
TDOT has prepared for the disruption by posting detour information and encourages travelers to stay informed through their TNSmartWay website, which provides updates on construction activities and live-streaming traffic cameras. For those on the move, dialing 511 can provide real-time travel information, and updates are also shared via TDOT’s Twitter accounts, tailored for statewide or West Tennessee-specific travel news.
In light of the upcoming closure, TDOT urges drivers to plan their routes in advance and make use of available motorist information tools to avoid delays. The department also reminds drivers of the importance of safe driving practices, emphasizing that activities such as tweeting, texting, or talking on a cell phone while driving are not only dangerous but can contribute to traffic congestion, especially during such significant roadway closures.
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