BUMP IN THE ROAD: Pair of problems slows work on Interstate 26

A pair of problems has slowed work being done to Interstate 26. A sinkhole developed heading eastbound by mile marker 27.8 in Unicoi County sometime in the early morning hours of Tuesday, while TDOT also acknowledge a a current issue of groundwater mixing with fine sediments at some locations on the travel lanes and shoulders of I-26 where current road construction is taking place. TDOT crews closed the right lane of traffic on Tuesday, August 11 to deal with the issue, while the lane remained closed for repairs through Wednesday. The left lane saw repairs beginning on Thusday as confirmed by a post on X from Mark Nagi, Region 1 Regional Communications Officer for TDOT. "We ask that motorists use extreme caution in this area as workers will be making repairs over the next 2-3 days," Nagi said. Simultaneously, a completely separate issue arose that involves groundwater and sediment mixing, creating difficult surfaces for crews to work with. Excessive rainfall has hit the region repeatedly over the last several weeks contributing to the problems. "TDOT personnel have been evaluating options to remediate this issue, and further discussions are scheduled to determine the best path forward," Nagi said of the current situation. "Placement of the final riding surface will not take place until a final decision can be made." The project will remain in limbo until TDOT can determine the best path forward for safe construction. Nagi said the current project is part of a three-year resurfacing program and was identified well before Hurricane Helene and the massive influx of heavy commercial traffic. He said funding for state-of-good-repair projects like the one taking place on I-26 ensures that the existing infrastructure is properly maintained for years to come, so that roadways can function safely, reliably and cost-effectively.