TDOT plans action as soon as Gov. Haslam signs IMPROVE Act into law
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Governor Haslam is expected to sign the newly-passed IMPROVE Act into law soon.
In addition to the raising the gas tax, the IMPROVE Act will increase the gas tax and lower the grocery tax with the intent of applying those tax dollars to new construction projects around the state.
The IMPROVE Act is geared to fund 962 projects spread throughout all 95 counties in Tennessee. TDOT estimates the roadway improvement projects will last 13-14 years.
One of those projects in Nashville would repave the inner loop around town better known as I-440.
Mid-state drivers say repaving, widening and securing bridges and overpasses is well worth it.
"There is some concern with the bridges and overpasses needing to be updated," said motorist Allen Ray. "That's a good thing to update. I know they did that fast fix that seemed to go over really well, and they got it done quick."
TDOT said as soon as the Governor signs the IMPROVE act into law, I-440 repaving could go into contract as early as next year. TDOT plans to release its three year plan detailing which projects will be first to start in the very near future.
The question is: Will all of these projects help solve middle Tennessee's traffic problem?
Rick Williams with Go Rail Now Tennessee said public transportation is the answer, specifically expanding the Music City Star to the area's only commuter rail throughout the region.
Part of Governor Haslam's plan gives authority to local municipalities the option to have citizens vote on a slight tax increase to help fund transit options. Until then, road construction projects will be on the rise.
"It takes a lot of money to get things done, but there's so many projects going at once," said motorist Mary Jackson. "They need to do one or two or jumping on five or six projects that would probably help."
According to the governor's spokesperson, Gov. Haslam will sign the IMPROVE Act into law, but it won't take effect until July 1st.
Click here or read below to see a list of TDOT's road projects and their status.
