GREENE COUNTY, Tenn. — The Tennessee Department of Transportation said it is working to repair two essential bridges destroyed by flooding after Hurricane Helene by summer of next year.
The bridges on SR-107 in Greene County and SR-81 in Washington County provide critical connectivity between the Greeneville, Jonesborough and Erwin communities. Both bridges were washed away when the Nolichucky River flooded over.
“This has been a challenging time for many, with entire communities cut off from essential resources,” said Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “We are working diligently to keep them connected and are thankful for the authority to utilize this alternative method to accelerate recovery efforts. TDOT is committed to helping citizens return to normalcy as quickly as possible following the devastation caused by the hurricane.”
TDOT said the bridge construction will be accelerated through multiple work packages that will allow the debris sites to be cleaned up early and prepped for construction.
Gov. Bill Lee said the cost of repairs won't increase taxes in the state.
“We passed the Transportation Modernization Act in partnership with the General Assembly to ensure TDOT could effectively meet Tennessee's transportation needs without new taxes or debt," Lee said. "I'm proud that we have the resources available to swiftly respond to the urgent needs of communities severely impacted by Hurricane Helene.”