TRAFFIC TIPS
AUGUST 2008 RACE WEEK AT BRISTOL MOTOR SPEEDWAY
David N. Metzger, Traffic Engineer, City of Bristol Tennessee

There has been a lot of construction activity along the various race traffic routes and in the vicinity of BMS itself since the races this past March.

COMING THROUGH KNOXVILLE!!!

Coming from the southwest, Interstate 40 east of downtown Knoxville is closed to allow replacement of some bridges by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) as part of the reconstruction project there. All interstate traffic coming from Nashville, Chattanooga, or Lexington will be required to use the Interstate 640 bypass. Motorists passing through Knoxville need to allow extra time for travel congestion in the Knoxville area.

FROM THE NORTH

Coming in from the north, construction continues on the Big Walker and East River Mountain tunnels on Interstate 77 at and south of the Virginia/West Virginia state line.

FROM THE SOUTH

Driving in from the south and southeast, motorists will encounter work zones for projects as well. Coming from North Carolina, TDOT is resurfacing Interstate 26 on the Tennessee side of Sam's Gap from the top of the mountain to the bottom. If one comes from North Carolina on US 19E, a bridge replacement project is underway on US 19E about six miles from the North Carolina line which is nearing completion; if it is not finished, this may still be a one-lane bridge crossing over the Doe River controlled with traffic signals. In Bluff City about four miles south of BMS, work has started on the installation of turn lanes and a traffic signal at the intersection of US 11E and US 19E; it should be operational for the spring race in 2009.

PEDESTRIAN SAFETY ENCHANCEMENT PROJECT

Finally, at BMS itself, work continues by the TDOT and the City of Bristol to widen the pair of US 11E bridges over Back Creek just north of North Entrance, and the pair of bridges over Beaver Creek just south of South Entrance, install sidewalks, and modify the median of US 11E with turn lanes in selected locations. The bridge and sidewalk work will be complete enough for all lanes open to traffic. This remains a work zone for finish-up details on the bridges and landscaping.

TIPS:

• Get to BMS as early as possible to help eliminate the chance that traffic delays will impact you getting to the speedway on time.
• Since the post-race traffic flows will take place after sundown, as always please be on the lookout for pedestrians, persons directing traffic, and signage to guide your route back home.
• Watch for pedestrians (especially after sunset and in the work zones); allow plenty of time for travel.
• Follow the instructions of the signs, police officers, and traffic directors.
• Don't drink and drive.
• Please be courteous to your fellow motorists.