Construction Prompts Closure of Ditty Road in Putnam County

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) contract crews will close a portion of Ditty Road beginning Monday, March 2, between Baxter Road and the entrance to Portobello America. This closure is expected to remain in place for approximately six months. The work will allow the contractor to safely complete grading, drainage improvements, widening, and resurfacing.

This project is being delivered through the State Industrial Access (SIA) Program, which provides funding and technical assistance to support highway access for new and expanding industries across Tennessee. Through the SIA Program, TDOT partners with local governments to develop roadway improvements that enhance industrial growth and economic development.

As part of this project, TDOT will construct a new alignment of Ditty Road to serve Portobello America. The new roadway will include two 12-foot travel lanes and 4-foot shoulders. Crews will also install two new box culverts along the new alignment and extend an existing box culvert on Baxter Road to support the roadway widening and the addition of a left turn lane onto Ditty Road. Once construction is complete, the corridor will receive new pavement markings and permanent striping.

Detour Information:

• Access to Portobello America: Traffic will use SR 135 (South Willow Avenue) to Ditty Road. The main entrance to Portobello America will remain open throughout construction.

• Local Traffic: Drivers bypassing the closure will use Baxter Road south to Academy Road, then continue to Ditty Road to reach their destination.

TDOT has notified Portobello America and the City of Baxter of the upcoming closure.

This work is weather-dependent. Drivers are advised to plan ahead, expect delays, and use caution while traveling through the work zone.

As always, motorists are reminded to use TDOT's motorist information tools and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before departure. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on the phone while driving. For the latest updates, visit the TDOT SmartWay Map or dial 511 for statewide travel information.

Tennessee's Move Over Law requires drivers to move over for highway workers and emergency vehicles. Violation of this law can result in up to 30 days in jail and a fine of up to $500.

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