KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Lanes on Gay Street Bridge will be closed on Tuesday and Wednesday as the Tennessee Department of Transportation evaluates and inspects how safe the bridge is for drivers.
The inspection will start on Tuesday with the northbound lane of the Gay Street Bridge closing, possibly interrupting the commutes of people driving toward downtown Knoxville. Officials said traffic will only be allowed on westbound Sevier Avenue at Atchley Street. Other trafficked will be detoured to Atchley, Mimosa Avenue and finally to Chapman Highway.
Officials said the detour will help drivers avoid demolition work at Kay Street and Blount Avenue, along with the closures associated with that project being done by the property owner.
People will still be able to access the Regal parking garage despite the closures, according to a release from officials.
Then, on Wednesday, the opposite lane will close for the safety inspection.
The bridge will stay open to pedestrians and bicyclists during the inspection, according to officials. However, they said people should be cautious around TDOT equipment.