In December, we shared TDOT’s plan to introduce choice lanes, or toll lanes, to ease traffic congestion on select roadways statewide. Up first is the I-24 Southeast Choice Lanes project, which seeks to improve travel times and regional connectivity along 26 miles of I-24.

As TDOT gears up for public meetings this month, here's an update on where things stand.

Catching you up to speed

The new lanes will allow motorists to drive at ~50 mph during rush hour periods, according to TDOT. The cost to use the lanes, which has yet to be determined, will vary throughout the day based on traffic volume.

The Transportation Modernization Act will initially fund the lanes, with a private entity handling the financing, construction, and maintenance through a public-private partnership. TDOT is prioritizing the I-24 project, but other potential sites include I-65 between Nashville and Spring Hill, as well as routes in Chattanooga and Knoxville.

What’s happening now

While environmental studies continue through 2025, public meetings will be held throughout August, allowing residents to provide feedback on the project and its potential impacts.

Wednesday, Aug. 14 | 5 p.m. | Virtual
Wednesday, Aug. 21 | 5-7 p.m. | Smyrna Event Center
Wednesday, Aug. 28 | 5-7 p.m. | The Fairgrounds Nashville
Thursday, Aug. 29 | 11 a.m.-6 p.m. | Southeast Community Center

However, don’t expect toll lanes to appear overnight. According to the project’s timeline, public hearings will occur in 2025, partnership agreements will be finalized in 2026, and construction is expected to begin in 2027.

Pro tip: Organizations seeking more information about the I-24 Southeast Choice Lanes project can request a speaker to provide detailed insights at a meeting.