Construction Commences on State Route 109 Portland Bypass in Sumner County

Image Courtesy of Sumner County Source

 

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has officially commenced construction on the State Route 109 Portland Bypass, a significant infrastructure project designed to improve safety and traffic flow in Portland, Tennessee.

 

State and local officials gathered to mark the start of this $88.9 million endeavor, awarded to Scotty’s Contracting & Stone. The project is a response to the growing industrial traffic and local development in Sumner County, aiming to provide a more efficient route for commuters and commercial vehicles alike.

 

TDOT Commissioner Will Reid expressed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts that have brought this project to fruition. He emphasized that the investment in infrastructure is not merely about constructing roads and bridges but about connecting families, strengthening communities, and ensuring that every Tennessean has the opportunity to thrive.

 

Phase 1 of the Portland Bypass includes several key components:

 

• Two travel lanes in each direction spanning 3.9 miles.
• A partial folded diamond interchange at State Route 52.
• Connector roads, including an extension of Kirby Drive to accommodate truck traffic.
• A single-span bridge over College Street.
• Widening of State Route 52 to five lanes near West Market Street to the west of the State Route 52/Bypass interchange.
• Installation of sidewalks and traffic signals to enhance pedestrian safety.

 

Portland Mayor Mike Callis highlighted the project's significance for the community, noting that the bypass will not only improve safety and access but also benefit the state and the flow of commerce. He acknowledged TDOT as a great partner throughout the process and expressed anticipation for the project's completion.

 

Construction for Phase 1 is already underway and is scheduled for completion in spring 2028. Meanwhile, right-of-way acquisition is in progress for the southern portion (Phase 2) of the project, with construction expected to begin in Fiscal Year 2028.

 

The Portland Bypass is part of a broader effort to enhance the entire State Route 109 corridor, which serves as a primary north-south connector between Interstate 65 in Robertson and Sumner Counties and Interstate 40 in Wilson County. This initiative aims to address concerns related to local growth and increasing industrial traffic, ultimately improving regional accessibility to the interstate highway system.

 

Residents and commuters are encouraged to stay informed about construction updates and potential traffic impacts as the project progresses. TDOT remains committed to minimizing disruptions and ensuring the safety of all road users during this significant infrastructure improvement.