Helene Recovery Efforts Continue in East Tennessee
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI) — On Monday, December 1, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) announced the reopening of SR-159/US 321 in Carter/Johnson Counties. This roadway was heavily damaged by Hurricane Helene on September 27, 2024.
Over the last 14 months, SR-159/US 321 has seen major reconstruction activity along this 12.49-mile section of roadway. These activities include debris removal, relocation of utilities throughout the project, diversion of the Elk River, construction of retaining walls and rock buttresses, and stabilization of the roadway.
Today, 48 of the 49 sections of roadway and bridges that were initially closed due to Helene flooding are back open to traffic. The final remaining closure is the SR-353 bridge in Washington County, which is expected to reopen to traffic in Spring 2026.
TDOT crews have worked countless hours to reopen roadways and bridges and reconnect communities since Hurricane Helene swept through East Tennessee. TDOT remains committed to keeping the public informed about Helene Recovery progress. The latest information is available at Hurricane Helene Recovery (tn.gov).
