KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) – The Tennessee Department of Transportation is advising motorists to plan ahead for a temporary road closure on State Route 93 in Sullivan County this weekend.
Beginning at 6 p.m. Friday, July 17, State Route 93 will be closed between Murrell Road and State Route 347 (Lone Star Road/Mill Creek Road) to allow crews to perform grading work near Derby Drive.
According to transportation officials, local traffic will still be permitted through the area during construction. However, southbound motorists will not be able to access Derby Drive while work is underway.
To maintain traffic flow, drivers traveling southbound will be detoured to Interstate 26 and Interstate 81 to bypass the work zone.
The closure is expected to remain in place through the weekend and is scheduled to reopen at 6 a.m. Monday, July 20.
Drivers Encouraged to Plan Ahead
Transportation officials are reminding motorists to check traffic conditions before traveling and allow additional time for delays associated with construction activity.
Drivers are also encouraged to use caution in and around work zones and remain alert for changing traffic patterns.
TDOT continues to urge motorists to avoid distractions while driving and never text, tweet or use a handheld phone while behind the wheel.
Officials say the temporary closure is necessary to safely complete roadway improvements and grading work in the area.
