Interstate 640 Reconstruction

Knox County
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The project along Interstate 640, from the I-40 Interchange east of Knoxville to the I-40 Interchange west of Knoxville, consists of resurfacing or reconstructing the roadway for approximately 10 miles. The improvements will enhance the safety and mobility of the entire corridor.

Current Status: August 26, 2024

I-640 in Knox County is now fully open to 3 lanes of traffic in each direction.  The contractor will still have to do some paving on ramps and shoulders, but that work will take place at night.  Motorists should keep an eye out for litter and mowing crews working this week in that area.

Construction start:  July 2022

Estimated completion: August 2024

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History and Background

I-640 was designed and constructed in the late 1970s as an east-west loop around the city of Knoxville. Upon completion of the roadway in 1982, it linked I-40 with US 441, I-75/I-275, and other routes in the city, just in time for the World’s Fair.

Today, traffic counts along the interstate connector average between 66,000 and 87,000 vehicles per day. The existing roadway is three lanes in each direction and much of the existing road surface is in substandard condition and needs to be repaired or replaced. An extensive pavement project is needed for the six-lane facility.

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Public Involvement and Engagement

Project Handout from July 2022  

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Project Imagery & Visuals

Project Map

AUGUST 2024 UPDATES

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Key Project Milestones 

The proposed design calls for repair or replacement of the deteriorated pavement throughout the 10-mile corridor.

Due to the size of the corridor, the I-640 project has been divided into two smaller sections or phases.

Phase 1: I-640 between I-75/I-275 and I-40 (west of Knoxville) COMPLETED

  • Removed top layer of asphalt
  • Replaced with two layers of asphalt, including a binding layer

Phase 2: I-640 between I-40 (east of Knoxville) and I-75/I-275

  • Rubblize existing roadway surface
  • Use rubblized material for new roadway base.
  • Repave roadway

Project Contacts

Kristin Qualls, PE
TDOT Region 1 Project Management
Email: Kristin.Qualls@tn.gov
Phone: 865-594-2350

Mark Nagi
TDOT Region 1 Regional Communications Officer (media)
Email: Mark.Nagi@tn.gov
Phone: 865-594-0161

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