Transportation board approves vehicle limits, variable‑fee methodology and smart‑freight study for Choice Lanes

The Transportation Modernization Board on Nov. 13 unanimously approved three actions from the Tennessee Department of Transportation to advance the I‑24 Choice Lanes project: (1) establish vehicle restrictions that would bar FHWA classes 11–13 (multi‑trailer trucks) from the choice lanes, (2) adopt a methodology for setting variable user fees with heavy‑vehicle multipliers, and (3) authorize further development of a potential Memphis/West Tennessee smart freight corridor on I‑40.

TDOT project lead Brian Ledford told the board the Choice Lanes procurement is in the RFP period and that TDOT expects a NEPA finding of no significant impact (FONSI) before proposals are due in the second quarter following that finding, with a best‑value recommendation and commercial close targeted for the third quarter of next year. "The price that is posted when you pass under that gantry is locked in for your trip," Ledford said, describing how posted tolls will be applied at gantries.

Why it matters: the board’s votes set the operational framework for a tolling concession and clarify how TDOT and a private developer will manage truck access and dynamic pricing. Ledford said the project has federal major‑project status because estimated cost exceeds $500,000,000, and TDOT expects to negotiate a TIFIA…