U.S. 27 reconstruction project may change your travels

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – If you take a drive through U.S. 27 you can see the work that’s being done from the bridge to I-24.

It’s part of TDOT’s reconstruction project that’s been going on for a few years.

“They’ve completed phase 1 and phase 2, so this is that last major, major phase. So we’re getting there,” TDOT Region II Spokesperson Jennifer Flynn said.

Now, workers are preparing to make changes that could impact your travels.

This weekend workers will be shifting a portion of Highway 27 South.

They’ll also be shutting down the entrance ramp on West Main Street.

“This particular ramp at West Main Street will be closed for about a year and that’s to allow construction of a brand new bridge in that area,” Flynn said.

Drivers can take a detour route on Williams Street to get on I-24.

Also, there will be a different way to access MLK Blvd. from U.S. 27 South.

Flynn said these changes need to be made so they can start working on the outside lanes and on some of the bridges and ramps.

“It’s difficult to build a project of this nature and still keep traffic moving and that’s why we ask everyone to just be alert when they go through the job site,” Flynn said.

Because of the weather, Flynn said they’re not sure when exactly they’ll shift traffic this weekend.

She suggests people avoid U.S. 27 South entirely.

As for the project, they’re hoping it will be completed by 2020.