TDOT announces Choice Lanes project in Tennessee

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – TDOT is looking at expanding their Choice Lanes project across the state.

“It is basically a new and revolutionary way that we are prioritizing our projects, so we want to be able to deliver our projects more efficiently,” said Rae-Anne Bradley, Communication Officer for TDOT. 

One potential location for a TDOT Choice Lane is I-24 in Chattanooga.

But what does the choice lane program mean for drivers? 

“Choice Lanes are new, additional lanes for the most congested urban corridors in Tennessee,” said Bradley. “These optional new lanes are going to allow drivers to bypass congestion in exchange for a user fee.”

TDOT’s Rae Anne Bradley says Choice Lanes will help prevent congestion on high trafficked interstates like I-24. 

It should also provide drivers with reliable trip time. 

“We are really trying to maximize the congestion relief that drivers are going to experience on the roadways,” Bradley said. “So, I think the biggest takeaway is this is going to save Tennesseans valuable time.” 

Georgia charges for premium purpose-built lanes around Atlanta.

TDOT is facing pressure to improve Tennessee highways without raising taxes.

They hope this plan is a step forward in providing a safer transportation.

“Those drivers that choose to use the choice lanes are no longer going to be in those traditional lanes, so it is going to free up space for drivers that choose not to use the choice lanes as well. It is going to benefit everyone that uses our roadways,” Bradley concluded.