GATLINBURG, Tenn. – Great Smoky Mountains National Park will begin its bi-annual inspection of bridges and tunnels starting June 8.
Park officials say visitors should expect single-lane closures at several tunnels during nighttime hours to ensure the safety of workers and drivers. Closures will begin no earlier than 9 p.m. at specific locations throughout the week.
On June 9, crews will inspect Bote Mountain Tunnel on Laurel Creek Road, impacting travel between Townsend and Cades Cove. On June 10, two tunnels along Newfound Gap Road on the Tennessee side of U.S. 441 will have lane closures. On June 11, inspections will take place at the tunnel along the Gatlinburg Spur, affecting traffic between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
In addition to tunnel work, crews will inspect bridges and culverts across the park. While roads will remain open during those inspections, drivers are asked to use extra caution near work areas.
The park maintains 384 miles of roadway, including five tunnels, 146 bridges, and 70 scenic overlooks.
