I-40/Hernando DeSoto Seismic Retrofit Project Update for October 1

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Crews working to seismically retrofit the I-40/Hernando DeSoto Bridge over the Mississippi River in Memphis have safely and successfully removed the first of six bridge joints on the outside lanes of the bridge as Phase Three of the project continues. The contractor is now beginning to set the new seismic expansion joint into place and will then pour the new bridge deck. Preparations are now being made to cut out and replace a second bridge joint.

 

Beginning today, workers will install a new work zone on the eastbound side of the bridge. Traffic will be reduced to one lane for the entire length of the bridge. The set up work will take several hours to complete. Motorists are reminded to reduce speeds and use caution around work crews.  The new eastbound work zone area will remain in place for the rest of the Phase Three work.

 

Traffic remains reduced to one 11-foot travel lane in each direction near exit 1. The two right (outside) lanes will be closed until completion of the project, which is currently scheduled for mid-November. All wide loads, and over height loads must utilize the I-155 Bridge in Dyersburg until completion of the current I-40 project.

 

TDOT has created a project website, http://www.tn.gov/tdot/i40hd/, to keep the public informed about the project.

 

For up-to-date travel information visit the TDOT SmartWay website at http://www.tn.gov/tdot/tdotsmartway/ or dial 5-1-1 from any land-line or cellular phone.  TDOT is also on Twitter. For traffic alerts in the Memphis area follow @Memphis511 on Twitter or follow @TN511 for statewide updates.

 

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