TDOT Provides Construction Update on SR 111 J-Turn in Putnam County

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is continuing work on the SR 111 J-Turn safety improvements project in Putnam County. Crews are making steady progress as the project advances toward paving and final configuration.

Recent Construction Progress:
Crews focused on site preparation and shoulder reconstruction throughout the project limits.

· Northwest Side: Crews undercut the shoulder section and placed riprap before saw-cutting the existing white line and removing the asphalt shoulder to the base stone grade.

· North Median: Completed saw-cutting and removal of asphalt shoulder material to subgrade level.

· South Median: Continued saw-cutting operations and removed asphalt shoulders in preparation for base stone work.

· Southeast Side: Saw-cut the existing white line and removed asphalt shoulder material to base stone grade as part of ongoing shoulder reconstruction.

What Drivers Can Expect This Week:
Work will continue along the shoulders and median areas as crews prepare for upcoming paving operations.

· Installation of the second lift of base stone on both the northwest and southeast sides.

· Additional saw-cutting and shoulder removal at the South Maple and Old Sparta Road turn radius area.

· Slope shaping, ditch work, and cleanup throughout the corridor.

· Intermittent lane closures may occur as needed for construction activities.

Looking Ahead:
Within the next two weeks, crews expect to begin full-depth asphalt paving at night.
During this same period, crews will also begin installing the concrete medians, with work scheduled to start on Monday, November 9.

Over the next three to four weeks, work will progress toward:

· Placement of the final asphalt topping layer

· Pavement markings, delineators, and permanent signage installation

· Guardrail installation on the northwest side

Motorists are encouraged to slow down, follow posted signs, and be alert when traveling through the work zone. All work is weather-dependent and may be adjusted as necessary.

As always, motorists are reminded to use TDOT's motorist information tools and Know Before You Go! by checking travel conditions before departing. 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. Violations may result in up to 30 days in jail and fines up to $500.

###