TDOT unveils I 24 Southeast Choice Lanes project to enhance Nashville travel reliability

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) held a public meeting on May 24, 2025, to discuss the I-24 Southeast Choice Lanes project, aimed at improving travel time reliability and addressing regional connectivity issues along a 26-mile stretch of I-24 between I-40 south of Downtown Nashville and I-840 near Murfreesboro.

The meeting outlined the project's purpose and need, emphasizing the importance of reliable trip times for commuters using both passenger vehicles and transit. Environmental studies for the project began in early 2024 and are expected to conclude in 2025. TDOT plans to engage with the public throughout the project lifecycle, including hosting in-person public hearings in early 2025 to gather feedback on the draft environmental assessment.

Key milestones were shared, including the release of a request for proposals in the second quarter of 2025, with commercial closure with a private sector partner anticipated in 2026 and construction expected to start in 2027. The timeline is contingent on the approval of the final environmental assessment by the Federal Highway Administration.

The meeting also highlighted the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process, which aims to balance transportation needs with environmental impacts. Public engagement is crucial, as feedback from residents and stakeholders will inform project decisions. An alternatives analysis is being conducted to evaluate different improvement options, with choice lanes identified as the recommended alternative.

TDOT is committed to addressing environmental justice concerns by ensuring fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all communities affected by the project. Additionally, a noise study will be conducted to assess the acoustic impact of the project, with potential noise abatement measures, such as noise barriers, being considered.

The meeting concluded with an invitation for community members to participate in a visual impacts survey to provide input on the project's visual components. TDOT encourages all stakeholders to engage in the process to ensure the project meets the needs of the community while minimizing environmental impacts.