Interstate 24
Interstate 24 (I-24) is an Interstate Highway in the Midwestern and Southeastern United States that extends diagonally for 314.44 miles (505.92 km) from its western terminus at a junction with Interstate 57 south of Marion, Illinois, to its eastern terminus at a junction with Interstate 75 in Chattanooga, Tennessee.[1] Although designated as an even-numbered east–west route, I-24 generally trends southeast-northwest across the states of Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Georgia.[1] The highway begins in southern Illinois, crossing the Ohio River into Kentucky near Metropolis and Paducah, where it serves as a primary corridor for regional freight and passenger traffic.[1] In Kentucky, I-24 spans 93.37 miles, passing through Paducah and connecting to the region's industrial and agricultural areas before entering Tennessee near Clarksville.[1] The longest segment lies in Tennessee, covering about 180 miles and linking major urban centers including Clarksville, Nashville, and Chattanooga, where it facilitates access to the Nashville metropolitan area and the Chattanooga–Hamilton County region.[1] A brief 4.09-mile portion extends into Georgia near the Tennessee state line, serving no major cities but providing connectivity to the broader interstate network.[1] Notable features of I-24 include overlaps with Interstate 40 for 2.70 miles near Nashville and Interstate 65 for 2.60 miles in the same vicinity, enhancing multimodal connectivity in central Tennessee.[1] Constructed as part of the Dwight D. Eisenhower National System of Interstate and Defense Highways authorized by the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, I-24's development in Tennessee occurred primarily from 1962 to 1968, supporting economic growth by improving access across the Cumberland Plateau and Appalachian foothills.[2] Today, the route plays a critical role in regional commerce, carrying significant volumes of truck traffic between the Mississippi River valley and the southeastern United States.[1]Route description
Illinois
Interstate 24 in Illinois spans 38.73 miles (62.33 km) across Williamson, Johnson, and Massac counties, connecting rural southern Illinois communities from its western terminus at Interstate 57 near Pulleys Mill to the eastern terminus at the Ohio River state line near Metropolis.[3] The short segment features five numbered interchanges, primarily diamond and partial cloverleaf designs, with no unsigned routes or major modifications reported since 2020.[4][5]| Milepost | Exit | Destinations | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.00 | — | I-57 south – Cairo I-57 north – Marion | Western terminus; partial cloverleaf interchange serving as the overall I-24 starting point |
| 6.94 | 7 | IL 37 – Goreville, Tunnel Hill | Partial cloverleaf ramps providing access to local communities in Williamson County |
| 14.09 | 14 | US 45 – Vienna, Harrisburg | Diamond interchange north of Vienna in Johnson County |
| 16.15 | 16 | IL 146 – Vienna, Golconda | Diamond interchange in eastern Vienna; IL 146 provides east-west connectivity across southern Illinois |
| 27.22 | 27 | Big Bay Road – Big Bay, New Columbia | Diamond interchange for local rural access in Massac County; serves nearby recreational areas |
| 37.25 | 37 | US 45 – Metropolis, Brookport | Diamond interchange adjacent to Metropolis; nearby Fort Massac Welcome Center offers restrooms, picnic areas, and tourist information |
| 38.73 | — | Ohio River (Kentucky state line) | Eastern terminus; continues as I-24 into Kentucky without an interchange |
Kentucky
Interstate 24 enters Kentucky across the Ohio River from Illinois at milepost 0 near Metropolis, Illinois, and proceeds southeast for 93.37 miles (150.26 km) through the western part of the state, primarily in a rural setting with agricultural lands, small communities, and recreational areas around Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. The route serves key cities including Paducah, Calvert City, Eddyville, Cadiz, and Hopkinsville, facilitating connections to the Jackson Purchase region and Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.[7] From Exit 25 near Calvert City to Exit 40 near Eddyville, I-24 overlaps with Interstate 69 for approximately 15.5 miles.[8] The highway features over 20 numbered interchanges, with exit numbers corresponding to approximate mileposts. Several exits serve dual routes, such as Exit 4 with U.S. Route 60 and the Paducah business loop, and Exit 81 with the Pennyrile Parkway (future extension of I-69). Notable junctions include U.S. Route 68 at Exit 65 in Cadiz and Kentucky Route 93 at Exit 45 near Eddyville. The route crosses the Tennessee River via the Tennessee River Bridge near milepost 31, approaching from the west via a series of elevated sections over wetlands and the Clarks River bottoms.[7]| Exit | Mile | County | Location | Destinations | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| - | 0.0 | McCracken | Ohio River | Continuation into Illinois | Ohio River Bridge; start of I-24 in Kentucky.[7] |
| 3 | 3.0 | McCracken | Paducah | KY 305 – Paducah | Western approach to Paducah; ramps connect to local arterials.[7] |
| 4 | 4.0 | McCracken | Paducah | US 60 / I-24 Bus. Loop – Paducah | Dual-numbered with business route through downtown Paducah; serves industrial areas.[7] |
| 7 | 7.0 | McCracken | - | Welcome Center (eastbound) | Tourist information and rest facilities; no westbound equivalent. |
| 11 | 11.0 | McCracken | Lone Oak | KY 284 – Lone Oak | Access to eastern Paducah suburbs.[7] |
| 16 | 16.0 | Graves | Mayfield | US 45 – Mayfield | Northern terminus of overlap with Purchase Parkway (I-69) nearby to the south.[7] |
| 21 | 21.0 | Graves | Fancy Farm | KY 121 – Fancy Farm | Rural interchange serving agricultural areas.[7] |
| 25 | 25.0 | Marshall | Calvert City | US 62 – Wickliffe, Calvert City; I-69 south – Mayfield, Fulton | West end of I-24/I-69 overlap; full cloverleaf interchange with Purchase Parkway.[7][8] |
| 27 | 27.0 | Marshall | Calvert City | US 62 – Calvert City, Kentucky Dam State Park | Access to industrial parks and recreation areas.[7] |
| 31 | 31.0 | Livingston | Grand Rivers | KY 453 – Grand Rivers, Kentucky Dam | Approach to Tennessee River Bridge; serves marinas and tourism.[7] |
| 35 | 35.0 | Livingston | - | KY 58 – Smithland | Rural connector to Lock and Dam No. 52.[7] |
| 40 | 40.0 | Lyon | Eddyville | US 62 – Eddyville; I-69 north – Henderson | East end of I-24/I-69 overlap; diamond interchange.[7][8] |
| 45 | 45.0 | Lyon | Eddyville | KY 93 – Eddyville | Serves state penitentiary and local traffic.[7] |
| 48 | 48.0 | Lyon | Kuttawa | KY 1529 – Kuttawa | Access to lakefront communities.[7] |
| 52 | 52.0 | Lyon | Dycusburg | KY 133 – Dycusburg | Rural service road.[7] |
| 65 | 65.0 | Trigg | Cadiz | US 68 / KY 80 – Cadiz, Hopkinsville | Major junction for central western Kentucky; partial cloverleaf.[7] |
| 74 | 74.0 | Trigg | Cerulean | KY 117 – Cerulean | Connector to Fort Campbell vicinity.[7] |
| 81A | 81.0 | Christian | Hopkinsville | Pennyrile Parkway south / I-169 south – Madisonville | Future I-69 north; split interchange for southbound.[7] |
| 81B | 81.0 | Christian | Hopkinsville | Pennyrile Parkway north / US 41 – Hopkinsville | Split interchange for northbound; dual-numbered.[7] |
| 86 | 86.0 | Christian | Hopkinsville | US 41A – Hopkinsville | Business access to downtown Hopkinsville.[7] |
| 94 | 94.0 | Christian | Oak Grove | KY 181 – Oak Grove, Fort Campbell | Serves military base and northern suburbs.[7] |
| - | 93.37 | Christian | - | Continuation into Tennessee | End of I-24 in Kentucky near Clarksville, TN.[7][9] |
Western Tennessee
Interstate 24 enters Tennessee from Kentucky near the Fort Campbell military installation, marking the start of its approximately 40-mile (64 km) traversal through western Tennessee's Montgomery County toward the outskirts of Nashville.[12] The highway begins at milepost 0 with Exit 1 for State Route 48 (Trenton Road), providing access to the adjacent Fort Campbell area, home to the U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Division.[13] It then proceeds southeast through rural and forested terrain, intersecting U.S. Route 79 (Wilma Rudolph Boulevard/SR 13) at Exit 4, which serves local traffic and connects to Clarksville's commercial districts.[13] Further east, Exit 8 accesses SR 237 (Rossview Road), linking to industrial zones, while Exit 11 meets SR 76 (Cumberland Heights Road), facilitating travel to northern suburbs and the city of Adams.[14] The route skirts the eastern edge of Clarksville, the principal city in the metropolitan area, with Exit 19 providing a major interchange for SR 12 (Ashland City Highway) and U.S. 41A (Dunlop Lane), directing traffic into the urban core and supporting daily commutes for over 346,000 residents (as of 2024).[12][15] East of this point, I-24 crosses the Red River on a multi-span bridge, transitioning from the flat lowlands to more undulating hills as it ascends into the Western Highland Rim.[16] Traffic volumes along this segment typically range from 30,000 to 60,000 vehicles per day (AADT, as of 2023), reflecting moderate congestion influenced by military personnel movements from Fort Campbell and regional freight.[9] This portion of I-24 plays a vital role in serving the Clarksville metropolitan area by connecting it to broader Tennessee networks, enhancing economic activity through proximity to manufacturing and defense operations.[17] Geologically, the corridor traverses the Western Highland Rim, characterized by karst topography with underlying limestone that forms sinkholes, caves, and underground drainage systems, contributing to the region's scenic but challenging terrain.[18] To address growing demand, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has planned widening of the 11.63-mile stretch from Exit 1 (SR 48) to Exit 19 (SR 149/SR 12) from four to six lanes, with construction slated to begin in fiscal year 2034.[12]Central Tennessee
Interstate 24 forms an approximately 50-mile (80 km) urban corridor through central Tennessee, spanning from the outskirts of Clarksville in Montgomery County to the eastern edges of the Nashville Basin in Davidson and Rutherford counties. This segment navigates the relatively flat terrain of the Nashville Basin, serving as a critical east-west artery for the Nashville metropolitan area, which encompasses over 2 million residents. Entering the basin after a preparatory ascent from the Highland Rim in western Tennessee, I-24 provides efficient connectivity across urban and suburban landscapes, supporting daily travel between key population centers.[9] In Nashville, I-24 briefly concurs with I-65 southward for 2.60 miles (4.19 km) toward downtown, beginning at exit 47, before reaching a complex three-wye interchange with I-40 at exits 52-53. The route then overlaps with I-40 westward for 2.70 miles (4.35 km) into the city center, facilitating seamless transitions for through traffic. Major interchanges along this stretch include the connection to Briley Parkway (SR 155) at exit 47A, which loops around northern Nashville, and access to US 41 (Murfreesboro Road) at exit 51 near the urban core. The corridor also crosses the Cumberland River via multi-span bridges, including the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge vicinity structures, which handle significant volumes while integrating with the riverfront's revitalized pathways.[9] This section of I-24 experiences intense congestion, with annual average daily traffic (AADT) surpassing 100,000 vehicles in core urban areas and peaking at 182,508 vehicles per day through central Nashville segments (as of 2023), underscoring its essential role in regional commuter patterns for workers traveling to employment hubs in healthcare, education, and entertainment sectors. The route's design accommodates high-volume flows, though bottlenecks at interchanges like I-65/I-24 exacerbate delays during peak hours. I-24 further bolsters Nashville's music and tourism economy—valued at $11.2 billion in annual visitor spending (2024)—by offering direct exits to landmarks such as Vanderbilt University via I-65 south (exit 47B) and downtown attractions including the Country Music Hall of Fame and Broadway's honky-tonks via I-40 west (exit 52), positioning the interstate as a primary gateway for the city's 14 million-plus annual tourists.[9][19][20][21][22][23][24]Eastern Tennessee
Interstate 24 enters its eastern Tennessee segment from the relatively flat eastern Nashville Basin, transitioning into the more rugged Eastern Highland Rim and Cumberland Plateau over approximately 95 miles (153 km) toward the Georgia state line near Chattanooga. This portion of the route climbs significantly from elevations around 700 feet (210 m) near Manchester to over 1,800 feet (550 m) atop the plateau, navigating steep grades and sharp curves that challenge drivers, particularly heavy trucks. The terrain shifts from rolling hills to mountainous escarpments, with extensive rock cuts required to carve the highway through the resistant sandstone and limestone formations of the Cumberland Plateau.[25][26] A defining feature is the ascent and descent of Monteagle Mountain between mileposts 127 and 134 in Grundy and Marion counties, where the eastbound route features a sustained 6% grade over about 4 miles (6.4 km), dropping more than 1,100 feet (340 m) in elevation. This section includes interchanges at U.S. Route 64 and State Route 50 (exit 127) near Pelham, providing access to the Sequatchie Valley, which the highway crosses via a bridge over the Sequatchie River near Jasper in Marion County. Further east, exit 134 at State Route 15 serves Monteagle and offers a detour via U.S. 41 paralleling the interstate. The route's rock cuts in this area are prone to slides due to the unstable geology, contributing to ongoing maintenance needs, while scenic overlooks along the plateau provide views of the surrounding valleys. Engineering efforts in the late 1970s, coinciding with the completion of final segments around 1978, included grading adjustments and the addition of runaway truck ramps to accommodate truck traffic on the steep inclines.[27][28][26] Traffic volumes along this segment average 40,000 to 54,000 vehicles per day (AADT as of 2023), with higher concentrations near urban fringes like Coffee and Marion counties. Safety concerns arise from the elevation changes and grades, which exceed the statewide average crash rates, prompting mitigation such as rockfall barriers between mileposts 27 and 97 (encompassing eastern sections) and variable speed limit systems. These features underscore the engineering balance between accessibility and the challenging topography of the Eastern Highland Rim and plateau.[29][30][25]Georgia
Interstate 24's segment in Georgia is a brief 4.10-mile (6.60 km) stretch entirely within Dade County in the northwestern part of the state, entering from Tennessee near Wildwood and re-entering Tennessee shortly thereafter to avoid Raccoon Mountain. This portion facilitates the northern terminus of Interstate 59 and provides the only interchange within Georgia, connecting to local roads that link to Chattanooga's grid via U.S. Route 11. The highway is four lanes throughout, with mileposts resetting to 0.00 at the western state line while exit numbers continue sequentially from Tennessee's system. Ramp configurations at the interchange are designed for efficient access, with the trumpet interchange at Exit 167 for I-59 and folded diamond at Exit 169 for State Route 299.[31][9][32][33] The following table lists the key points along the Georgia segment, including entry/exit points and the interchanges, with approximate mile markers based on Georgia's internal numbering.| Mile | Exit | Destinations | Ramp Configuration and Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.00 | — | Tennessee state line | Western entry into Georgia; continuation from Eastern Tennessee segment near Aetna Mountain. No ramps. |
| 1.49 | 167 | I-59 south – Birmingham, AL | Trumpet interchange serving as northern terminus of I-59; full access ramps in all directions from I-24. No local Georgia access here.[9][34] |
| 2.78 | 169 | GA 299 east to US 11 – Wildwood; GA 299 west to TN 134 – Hooker | Folded diamond interchange with loop ramps for westbound off and eastbound on; provides access to Wildwood and ties into Chattanooga's local grid via US 11 (Chattanooga Valley area).[31][33] |
| 4.10 | — | Tennessee state line | Eastern exit from Georgia; resumes Tennessee mile markers and continues toward Chattanooga. No ramps. |
History
Planning and construction
Interstate 24 was conceptualized as part of the national Interstate Highway System during the mid-1950s. The U.S. Bureau of Public Roads published the General Location of National System of Interstate Highways, known as the 1955 Yellow Book, which proposed a diagonal route linking southern Illinois near Marion to northern Georgia near Chattanooga, spanning approximately 316 miles to connect major population centers and facilitate commerce across the Midwest and Southeast.[35] This plan was refined and officially designated in the 1957 Interstate Highway plan, approved by the Bureau of Public Roads, establishing I-24 as a key east-west corridor despite its diagonal alignment.[36] Funding for I-24's construction was secured through the Federal-Aid Highway Act of 1956, which authorized $25 billion over 13 years for the entire Interstate System, with the federal government contributing 90 percent of costs and states covering the remainder. This legislation marked a turning point, enabling widespread engineering and land acquisition for the system, including I-24, and emphasizing standards for controlled-access freeways with divided lanes, full interchanges, and grade separations. State departments of transportation, in coordination with the Bureau of Public Roads (later the Federal Highway Administration), managed project approvals and funding allocations on a segment-by-segment basis. Construction commenced in the late 1950s, with the first segment—a short urban freeway in Chattanooga, Tennessee, from Market Street (SR 58) to 23rd Street—opening to traffic on December 16, 1958, as the city's initial Interstate link.[37] The Illinois portion, a 19.42-mile stretch from I-57 near Marion to the Kentucky state line, was completed early in the process by 1961, providing quick connectivity through southern Illinois' rural terrain. In Tennessee, work progressed in phases from 1959 to 1971, with significant segments between Nashville and Chattanooga built during the 1960s; for example, the challenging 6-mile section over Monteagle Mountain, featuring steep grades up to 6 percent and sharp curves, opened in 1968 after six years of construction to replace hazardous older roads. Kentucky's 94-mile route began groundbreaking in Lyon County in December 1967, with phased openings through the 1970s. The Georgia segment, a brief 4.10-mile connector from the Tennessee line to I-75 near Wildwood, opened in 1971.[2][38] Engineering challenges abounded during initial construction, particularly river crossings and mountainous terrain. I-24 required major bridges over the Ohio River near Paducah (opened 1973), the Tennessee River near Haletown (opened 1974), and the Cumberland River near Clarksville, demanding innovative cantilever and tied-arch designs to accommodate navigation and flood risks. In eastern Tennessee, navigating the Cumberland Plateau involved extensive earthwork, cuts through ridges like Missionary Ridge in Chattanooga, and tunnels or viaducts to maintain design speeds amid elevations rising over 1,800 feet. These features, addressed through federal-state collaboration, ensured compliance with Interstate standards while minimizing environmental disruption.[39] The highway reached full completion on May 23, 1980, with the opening of the final 23-mile segment in western Kentucky near Eddyville, marking the end of over two decades of build-out across four states; the Georgia portion had been finalized in 1971, integrating I-24 into the broader network. Overall progress varied by state due to local topography and funding disbursements, but the project's scale underscored the Interstate System's role in national defense and economic development.[9]Improvements and expansions
Following the full opening of Interstate 24 in the early 1970s, several sections underwent widening in the 1980s and 1990s to accommodate growing urban traffic, particularly around Nashville where volumes had surged due to population and economic expansion. For instance, the stretch through downtown Nashville was expanded from four to six lanes during this period to improve capacity and safety. In Chattanooga, the I-75/I-24 interchange, known as the "Split," was significantly rebuilt as part of Phase 1 improvements to address chronic congestion. Construction began in June 2019 and was completed in August 2021, involving widening of existing roads and ramps, increased ramp radii for better merging, and addition of acceleration and deceleration lanes to enhance traffic flow and reduce bottlenecks.[40] Bridge rehabilitations have been a key focus of post-opening upgrades, with the Tennessee River Bridge in Kentucky serving as a prominent example. Work on this structure, located between Marshall and Livingston counties, includes joint replacements, structural cleaning, and painting; a major phase of the rehab project began in January 2024 and remains ongoing as of 2025 to ensure long-term durability and safety.[41][11] The I-24 SMART Corridor initiative, launched in the 2010s, represents a technology-driven enhancement along the 29-mile segment between Nashville and Murfreesboro to manage escalating traffic without full roadway expansion. Phase 1 focused on intelligent transportation systems, including the installation of ramp metering to regulate entry flow and reduce congestion; construction started in November 2018 and concluded in July 2021.[42][43] Phase 2, commencing in April 2022, added physical infrastructure such as extended ramp lengths, emergency pull-off areas, and upgraded signage to further optimize operations.[44] Additional enhancements include shoulder paving in rural areas to provide emergency space and improve resilience, as implemented during interchange modernizations like the SR-15 project near Monteagle, where temporary and permanent shoulder pavements were added to support traffic shifts and auxiliary lanes.[45] ADA compliance retrofits have also been integrated into these efforts, particularly along arterials connected to I-24 in the SMART Corridor, featuring upgraded pedestrian access, signals, and facilities to meet federal accessibility standards.[42]Major incidents
Interstate 24 has experienced several major incidents since its completion, including structural failures, multi-vehicle collisions, and natural disruptions that have led to closures, injuries, and fatalities, underscoring ongoing safety challenges along the route.[46] One of the most notable events was a large sinkhole that formed on May 18, 2010, in Grundy County, Tennessee, near mile marker 127 on the eastbound lanes, measuring approximately 25 feet deep, 40 feet wide, and 18 feet long, which swallowed part of the roadway and closed the interstate in both directions for several months while emergency repairs were conducted by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT).[47][48] The incident, caused by underground karst formations common in the region, required extensive excavation and reinforcement, disrupting traffic between Nashville and Chattanooga and highlighting vulnerabilities in the highway's foundation over limestone terrain.[47] Multi-vehicle crashes have been recurrent, particularly in areas with challenging grades and weather conditions. In the Monteagle Mountain section of eastern Tennessee, known for its steep descents, a significant pileup occurred in 2018 involving multiple vehicles, contributing to the area's reputation for hazardous trucking incidents and resulting in injuries and traffic backups spanning hours.[49][50] More recently, on November 3, 2025, a multi-vehicle crash on the Ohio River Bridge between Paducah, Kentucky, and Metropolis, Illinois, blocked all westbound lanes for over an hour, with emergency responders clearing debris and checking for injuries amid heavy traffic flow.[51][52] These collisions often stem from high speeds, poor visibility, or vehicle failures, exacerbating the route's safety record. Rockslides pose another persistent threat, especially in Tennessee's Cumberland Plateau. On November 4, 2025, a rockfall near mile marker 137 in Marion County, Tennessee, blocked westbound lanes on the west side of Monteagle Mountain, prompting TDOT to deploy crews with loaders for immediate clearance and subsequent mitigation work, which reduced the highway to two lanes for several days.[53][54] The event, involving loose rock from the steep embankment, caused significant delays but no reported injuries, though it underscored the geological instability along this stretch.[55] Flooding has also severely impacted I-24, particularly at river crossings. The 2010 Nashville floods submerged sections of the highway near the Cumberland River bridges, leading to widespread closures and stranding vehicles under several feet of water, which contributed to emergency rescues and long-term structural assessments.[56] In August 2025, flash flooding in Hamilton County, Tennessee, closed portions of I-24 between I-75 and U.S. 27 after over six inches of rain fell rapidly, trapping cars and prompting evacuations while affecting bridges over Spring Creek and other waterways.[57][58] These events have amplified concerns over the interstate's exposure to extreme weather, with the mountainous grades in eastern Tennessee further compounding risks for slides and hydroplaning during heavy rains.[57] Overall, these incidents reflect I-24's high-risk profile, with Tennessee reporting dozens of fatal crashes on the highway in recent years alone, including 37 deaths between July 2018 and 2019, contributing to broader safety impacts since the 1980s.[59][60]Planned improvements
Ongoing projects
In the Nashville area, Phase 2 of the I-24 SMART Corridor project, which includes ramp extensions, emergency pull-off areas, and ramp metering installations, began construction in April 2022 and was completed in January 2025.[61][62] Although Phase 3 is currently under design for further long-term enhancements, no active construction is underway as of November 2025. Phase II of the I-75/I-24 interchange improvement project in Chattanooga, Tennessee, remains under construction as of November 2025, with work having started in spring 2023. This phase involves widening existing roads and ramps, increasing ramp radii, reconfiguring entry and exit points for better flow, and constructing flyover ramps to reduce congestion at the busy 75/24 Split. The project is expected to reach completion in summer 2026, with recent progress including significant summer 2025 advancements despite ongoing lane closures and traffic shifts.[63][64][65] On the Kentucky portion of I-24, a daytime lane restriction on the Tennessee River Bridge at the Marshall-Livingston County line began on November 9, 2025, for structural rehabilitation and paving work. The restriction reduced traffic to one lane in each direction during daytime hours to accommodate the contractor's efforts, with the project aimed at addressing bridge maintenance needs. Daytime lane restrictions were lifted on November 14, 2025, completing the work ahead of the anticipated late 2025 or early 2026 timeline.[66] In Marion County, Tennessee, rockfall mitigation efforts are ongoing following a rockslide on November 4, 2025, near mile marker 137 westbound, which initially blocked lanes and prompted immediate closures. Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) geotechnical engineers are designing and implementing stabilization measures, including potential scaling and netting, with the right lane remaining closed through at least late 2025 to ensure safety amid the region's geological risks.[53][67] Additional active work zones along I-24 include intermittent closures in Rutherford County, Tennessee, such as eastbound incidents near mile marker 78 in October 2025, stemming from crashes within construction areas and pothole repairs that have led to temporary full lane blockages. These efforts are part of broader safety and resurfacing initiatives, with TDOT monitoring for further disruptions into late 2025.[68][69]Proposed expansions
In the Chattanooga area, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has proposed widening a 10-mile stretch of Interstate 24 from the interchange with Interstate 59 near the Georgia state line eastward to U.S. Route 27, adding one lane in each direction to expand the highway from four to six lanes overall.[70] This project aims to alleviate congestion in the Moccasin Bend corridor and is scheduled to begin construction in 2027, with funding of approximately $246 million allocated by the state in 2025.[71] Further west in the Clarksville region, TDOT is planning an expansion of the I-24 and Interstate 65 corridor to accommodate population growth and increased traffic volumes, including widening I-24 from four to six lanes over an 11.63-mile segment in Montgomery County.[12] These improvements, part of TDOT's 10-year plan outlined in 2023 and updated in 2025, have been in development since around 2020 through regional corridor studies, with potential construction starting as early as 2027 to address forecasted demand.[72] In the Nashville metropolitan area, particularly eastern sections, TDOT proposes adding a third lane in each direction along portions of I-24 as part of the Southeast Choice Lanes initiative, which would introduce managed toll lanes between downtown Nashville and Murfreesboro to enhance capacity without full free widening.[73] This builds toward full integration of the I-24 SMART Corridor by 2030, incorporating AI-driven traffic management systems such as vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication for real-time queue warnings and adaptive signaling to optimize flow.[43] The connection between I-24 and Interstate 69 has been enhanced by the completed extension of I-69 and the designation of Interstate 169 as a direct link from I-24 near Hopkinsville to I-69, completed in December 2024, improving regional freight mobility as part of state transportation plans.[74] Concurrently, environmental studies for rock stabilization along I-24's Cumberland Plateau section in Tennessee, prompted by recent rockfall incidents, are evaluating long-term mitigation strategies like slope reinforcement to prevent future hazards in geologically unstable areas.[53]Auxiliary and related routes
Interstate 124
Interstate 124 (I-124) is a short auxiliary Interstate Highway spur in Chattanooga, Tennessee, extending 1.97 miles (3.17 km) northwest from Interstate 24 (I-24) to U.S. Route 27 (US 27) in downtown Chattanooga. The route primarily functions as an urban bypass around Chattanooga's central business district, providing direct access to key areas along the Tennessee River while carrying a mix of local commuter and tourist traffic. Designated as an Interstate in 1985, I-124 overlaps with the freeway segment of US 27 and remains unsigned, with signage and mile markers referencing only US 27.[75] The highway's development traces back to the 1950s, when Chattanooga Mayor P.R. "Rudy" Olgiati proposed a secondary river crossing to alleviate congestion on existing routes like US 27, which had been realigned through the city in the late 1950s.[76] Construction began in the late 1950s, with the Olgiati Bridge—a steel girder structure spanning the Tennessee River—opening in November 1959 and named in honor of the mayor.[76] Prior to its Interstate designation, the corridor served as Tennessee Spur 27, opening in segments between 1958 and 1964 to connect I-24's emerging Chattanooga segment with downtown via interchanges at Amnicola Highway (serving industrial and recreational areas) and the River Gorge vicinity (near the Tennessee River's scenic bluffs).[77] This realignment incorporated portions of the former US 27 alignment, enhancing connectivity across the river while integrating with the broader Interstate system. I-124 handles an average annual daily traffic (AADT) of approximately 20,000 vehicles as of 2019, reflecting its role in supporting urban mobility without overwhelming volumes seen on mainline I-24.[78] The route facilitates access to prominent local attractions, including the Tennessee Aquarium along the riverfront, bolstering Chattanooga's tourism economy by linking visitors from I-24 directly to downtown cultural sites. Recent improvements, such as the 2016–2021 widening project that expanded the corridor to six lanes and reconstructed the Olgiati Bridge, have enhanced safety and capacity to accommodate growing demand.[79][80]Business routes
Interstate 24 has one active business route, located in Paducah, Kentucky. This business loop, designated as Business Loop I-24, provides access to the city's downtown and commercial districts by utilizing portions of U.S. Route 60 Business and U.S. Route 45 Business.[81] The route begins at Exit 4 on I-24 (U.S. 60) west of the city and follows U.S. 60 east to the downtown area before turning south onto U.S. 45 Business through central Paducah, eventually rejoining I-24 at Exit 11 (U.S. 45 southeast of the city).[81] The loop measures approximately 11.4 miles (18.3 km) in total length and incorporates a one-way couplet system in the downtown section, with U.S. 60 Business handling westbound traffic via Park Avenue and a parallel path, while U.S. 45 Business manages southbound flow along Kentucky Avenue, Third Street, and other local streets.[81] Unlike the mainline Interstate, which adheres to full access-controlled standards, this business route includes at-grade intersections and signals to facilitate local traffic and business access, bypassing the limited-service freeway alignment around Paducah.[81] It serves as a vital connector for residents and visitors avoiding the I-24 bridges over the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers while supporting the local economy in McCracken County.[81] No other signed business loops or spurs for I-24 currently exist in Kentucky or Tennessee.Exits and junctions
Illinois
Interstate 24 in Illinois spans 38.73 miles (62.33 km) across Williamson, Johnson, and Massac counties, connecting rural southern Illinois communities from its western terminus at Interstate 57 near Pulleys Mill to the eastern terminus at the Ohio River state line near Metropolis.[3] The short segment features five numbered interchanges, primarily diamond and partial cloverleaf designs, with no unsigned routes or major modifications reported since 2020.[4][5]| Milepost | Exit | Destinations | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.00 | — | I-57 south – Cairo I-57 north – Marion | Western terminus; partial cloverleaf interchange serving as the overall I-24 starting point |
| 6.94 | 7 | IL 37 – Goreville, Tunnel Hill | Partial cloverleaf ramps providing access to local communities in Williamson County |
| 14.09 | 14 | US 45 – Vienna, Harrisburg | Diamond interchange north of Vienna in Johnson County |
| 16.15 | 16 | IL 146 – Vienna, Golconda | Diamond interchange in eastern Vienna; IL 146 provides east-west connectivity across southern Illinois |
| 27.22 | 27 | Big Bay Road – Big Bay, New Columbia | Diamond interchange for local rural access in Massac County; serves nearby recreational areas |
| 37.25 | 37 | US 45 – Metropolis, Brookport | Diamond interchange adjacent to Metropolis; nearby Fort Massac Welcome Center offers restrooms, picnic areas, and tourist information |
| 38.73 | — | Ohio River (Kentucky state line) | Eastern terminus; continues as I-24 into Kentucky without an interchange |
Kentucky
Interstate 24 enters Kentucky across the Ohio River from Illinois at milepost 0 near Metropolis, Illinois, and proceeds southeast for 93.37 miles through the western part of the state, primarily in a rural setting with agricultural lands, small communities, and recreational areas around Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. The route serves key cities including Paducah, Calvert City, Eddyville, Cadiz, and Hopkinsville, facilitating connections to the Jackson Purchase region and Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area.[7] From Exit 25 near Calvert City to Exit 40 near Eddyville, I-24 overlaps with Interstate 69 for approximately 15.5 miles.[8] The highway features 18 numbered interchanges, with exit numbers corresponding to approximate mileposts. Several exits serve dual routes, such as Exit 4 with U.S. Route 60 and the Paducah business loop, and Exit 81 with the Pennyrile Parkway (future extension of I-69). Notable junctions include U.S. Route 68 at Exit 65 in Cadiz and Kentucky Route 93 at Exit 45 near Eddyville. The route crosses the Tennessee River via the Tennessee River Bridge near milepost 31, approaching from the west via a series of elevated sections over wetlands and the Clarks River bottoms.[7]| Exit | Mile | County | Location | Destinations | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| - | 0.0 | McCracken | Ohio River | Continuation into Illinois | Ohio River Bridge; start of I-24 in Kentucky.[7] |
| 3 | 3.0 | McCracken | Paducah | KY 305 – Paducah | Western approach to Paducah; ramps connect to local arterials.[7] |
| 4 | 4.0 | McCracken | Paducah | US 60 / I-24 Bus. Loop – Paducah | Dual-numbered with business route through downtown Paducah; serves industrial areas.[7] |
| 7 | 7.0 | McCracken | - | Welcome Center (eastbound) | Tourist information and rest facilities; no westbound equivalent. |
| 11 | 11.0 | McCracken | Lone Oak | KY 284 – Lone Oak | Access to eastern Paducah suburbs.[7] |
| 16 | 16.0 | Graves | Mayfield | US 45 – Mayfield | Northern terminus of overlap with Purchase Parkway (I-69) nearby to the south.[7] |
| 21 | 21.0 | Graves | Fancy Farm | KY 121 – Fancy Farm | Rural interchange serving agricultural areas.[7] |
| 25 | 25.0 | Marshall | Calvert City | US 62 – Wickliffe, Calvert City; I-69 south – Mayfield, Fulton | West end of I-24/I-69 overlap; full cloverleaf interchange with Purchase Parkway.[7][8] |
| 27 | 27.0 | Marshall | Calvert City | US 62 – Calvert City, Kentucky Dam State Park | Access to industrial parks and recreation areas.[7] |
| 31 | 31.0 | Livingston | Grand Rivers | KY 453 – Grand Rivers, Kentucky Dam | Approach to Tennessee River Bridge; serves marinas and tourism.[7] |
| 35 | 35.0 | Livingston | - | KY 58 – Smithland | Rural connector to Lock and Dam No. 52.[7] |
| 40 | 40.0 | Lyon | Eddyville | US 62 – Eddyville; I-69 north – Henderson | East end of I-24/I-69 overlap; diamond interchange.[7][8] |
| 45 | 45.0 | Lyon | Eddyville | KY 93 – Eddyville | Serves state penitentiary and local traffic.[7] |
| 48 | 48.0 | Lyon | Kuttawa | KY 1529 – Kuttawa | Access to lakefront communities.[7] |
| 52 | 52.0 | Lyon | Dycusburg | KY 133 – Dycusburg | Rural service road.[7] |
| 65 | 65.0 | Trigg | Cadiz | US 68 / KY 80 – Cadiz, Hopkinsville | Major junction for central western Kentucky; partial cloverleaf.[7] |
| 74 | 74.0 | Trigg | Cerulean | KY 117 – Cerulean | Connector to Fort Campbell vicinity.[7] |
| 81A | 81.0 | Christian | Hopkinsville | Pennyrile Parkway south / I-169 south – Madisonville | Future I-69 north; split interchange for southbound.[7] |
| 81B | 81.0 | Christian | Hopkinsville | Pennyrile Parkway north / US 41 – Hopkinsville | Split interchange for northbound; dual-numbered.[7] |
| 86 | 86.0 | Christian | Hopkinsville | US 41A – Hopkinsville | Business access to downtown Hopkinsville.[7] |
| 89 | 89.0 | Christian | Oak Grove | KY 115 – Pembroke, Oak Grove, Fort Campbell | Serves military base and northern suburbs. Last exit in Kentucky.[82] |
| - | 93.37 | Christian | - | Continuation into Tennessee | End of I-24 in Kentucky near Clarksville, TN.[7] |
Tennessee
Interstate 24 enters Tennessee from Kentucky near Clarksville at mile marker 0 and extends 178.25 miles southeastward through the state, terminating at the Georgia state line west of Chattanooga.[9] The route passes through diverse terrain, from the rolling hills of western Tennessee to the urban core of central Tennessee and the rugged Appalachian foothills of eastern Tennessee. With over 70 exits, it serves major population centers and includes key interchanges such as I-65 near mile 47, I-40 near mile 53, and US 64 near mile 134 at Monteagle.[83] Notable features include concurrencies with I-65 (miles 42–48) and I-40 (miles 52–53), as well as truck climbing lanes and restrictions on the steep Monteagle grade (6% descent over 4 miles eastbound), where commercial vehicles are permitted in the left lane within 2 miles of runaway truck ramps to enhance safety.[84] Recent incidents include full closures at the Germantown Road exit (Exit 183, near mile 180) from June 20–23 and June 27–30, 2025, for widening project construction, and a fatal crash in a work zone near mile 78 (Exit 78) on October 10, 2025, which closed eastbound lanes for several hours.[85][86] The following table lists all exits along I-24 in Tennessee from west to east, segmented by region for clarity. Exit numbers are sequential mile-based from the Kentucky state line. Destinations reflect primary routes and communities served.[83]Clarksville Area (Miles 0–25: Western Tennessee, Montgomery and Robertson Counties)
| Exit | Mile | Destinations | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1.0 | SR-48 – Trenton, Clarksville | Access to Fort Campbell area.[83] |
| 4 | 4.0 | US 79 – Clarksville, Guthrie KY | Northernmost exit in Tennessee.[83] |
| 8 | 8.0 | SR-237 (Rossview Road) – Clarksville | Local access.[83] |
| 11 | 11.0 | SR-76 – Adams, Clarksville | Welcome center nearby at MM 0.4.[83] |
| 19 | 19.0 | SR-256 (Maxey Road) – Adams | Rural connector.[83] |
| 24 | 24.0 | SR-49 – Springfield, Ashland City, Pleasant View | Transition to central Tennessee.[83] |
Nashville Area (Miles 25–85: Central Tennessee, Cheatham, Davidson, Rutherford, and Bedford Counties)
| Exit | Mile | Destinations | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 31 | 31.0 | SR-249 (New Hope Road) – Joelton | Northern Nashville suburb access.[83] |
| 35 | 35.0 | US 431 – Joelton | Local route.[83] |
| 40 | 40.0 | SR-45 (Old Hickory Boulevard) – Whites Creek | Nashville approach.[83] |
| 43 | 43.0 | SR-155 (Briley Parkway) | Airport proximity.[83] |
| 44 | 44.0 | I-65 South – Nashville, Huntsville AL | Start of I-24/I-65 concurrency.[83] |
| 46 | 46.0 | I-65 North – Nashville, Louisville KY | End of I-24/I-65 concurrency.[83] |
| 47 | 47.0 | 1st Street South, Jefferson Street, Spring Street, US 31E, Ellington Parkway | Downtown Nashville access.[83] |
| 48 | 48.0 | US 31E (James Robertson Parkway) – State Capitol | Historic district.[83] |
| 49 | 49.0 | Shelby Avenue | Urban connector.[83] |
| 50 | 50.0 | I-40 West – Memphis | Start of brief I-24/I-40 concurrency.[83] |
| 52 | 52.0 | I-40 East – Knoxville, US 41 South (Murfreesboro Road) | End of I-24/I-40 concurrency.[83] |
| 53 | 53.0 | I-440 West – Nashville | Beltway access.[83] |
| 54 | 54.0 | SR-155 (Briley Parkway) – Nashville International Airport | Major airport interchange.[83] |
| 56 | 56.0 | SR-255 (Harding Place) | Southern Nashville suburbs.[83] |
| 57A | 57.0 | Haywood Lane West – Nashville | Split exit.[83] |
| 57B | 57.0 | Haywood Lane East – Antioch | Split exit.[83] |
| 59 | 59.0 | SR-254 (Bell Road) – Antioch | Shopping and residential.[83] |
| 60 | 60.0 | Hickory Hollow Parkway – Antioch | Commercial area.[83] |
| 62 | 62.0 | SR-171 (Old Hickory Boulevard) – Antioch | Local boulevard.[83] |
| 64 | 64.0 | Waldron Road – La Vergne | Industrial access.[87] |
| 66A | 66.0 | Sam Ridley Parkway West – Smyrna | Split exit.[87] |
| 66B | 66.0 | SR-266 (Sam Ridley Parkway East) – Smyrna | Split exit.[87] |
| 70 | 70.0 | SR-102 (Almaville Road) – Smyrna | Rural-urban transition.[87] |
| 76 | 76.0 | Manson Pike, Medical Center Parkway – Murfreesboro | Hospital and business district.[87] |
| 78A | 78.0 | SR-96 West (Old Fort Parkway) – Franklin, Murfreesboro | Site of October 2025 fatal crash closure in work zone.[86] |
| 78B | 78.0 | SR-96 East (Old Fort Parkway) – Murfreesboro | Split exit.[87] |
| 80 | 80.0 | SR-99 – Murfreesboro | Local highway.[87] |
| 81A | 81.0 | US 231 South (Church Street, Shelbyville Highway) – Shelbyville | Split exit.[87] |
| 81B | 81.0 | US 231 North – Murfreesboro | Split exit.[87] |
| 84A | 84.0 | Joe B. Jackson Parkway South – Murfreesboro | Split exit, ongoing improvements.[88] |
| 84B | 84.0 | Joe B. Jackson Parkway North – Murfreesboro | Split exit.[87] |
Eastern Area (Miles 85–178: Eastern Tennessee, Cannon, Coffee, Grundy, Marion, and Hamilton Counties)
| Exit | Mile | Destinations | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 89 | 89.0 | Buchanan Road – Christiana | Rural access.[87] |
| 97 | 97.0 | SR-64 (Beech Grove Road) – Shelbyville, Wartrace, Bell Buckle | Connector to southern routes.[87] |
| 105 | 105.0 | US 41 North – Manchester | Truck weigh station nearby at MM 115.[87] |
| 110 | 110.0 | SR-53 – Manchester, Woodbury | Local town access.[87] |
| 111 | 111.0 | SR-55 – Manchester, McMinnville | Coffee County seat.[87] |
| 114 | 114.0 | US 41 – Manchester | Parallel route.[87] |
| 117 | 117.0 | US Air Force Arnold Center – Tullahoma, Manchester | Military installation.[87] |
| 127 | 127.0 | SR-50 West, US 64 – Winchester, Pelham | Pre-Monteagle access.[87] |
| 134 | 134.0 | US 41A North – Monteagle | US 64 access; site of steep grade with truck restrictions and runaway ramps on left (eastbound).[87][84] |
| 135 | 135.0 | US 41 North – Monteagle, Tracy City | Continuation of grade; rest area at MM 133.6.[87] |
| 143 | 143.0 | Martin Springs Road – South Pittsburg | Marion County.[87] |
| 152 | 152.0 | US 64, US 72, US 41 – Kimball, South Pittsburg | Multi-route concurrency.[87] |
| 155 | 155.0 | SR-28 – Jasper, Dunlap | Sequatchie Valley access; rest area at MM 160.[87] |
| 158 | 158.0 | SR-27 – Nickajack Dam, Powells Crossroads | Reservoir proximity.[87] |
| 161 | 161.0 | SR-156 – Haletown, New Hope, Guild | Local rural.[87] |
| 163 | 163.0 | US 127 (Signal Mountain Road) – Chattanooga | Chattanooga approach.[89] |
| 167 | 167.0 | SR-153 – Hamilton Place Mall, Chattanooga | Suburban mall.[89] |
| 169 | 169.0 | Shallowford Road – Chattanooga | North Chattanooga. Entry to Georgia segment.[89] |
| 172 | 172.0 | US 11, US 64, SR-148 (Lee Highway) – Chattanooga | Multi-route. Continuation after Georgia segment.[89] |
| 174 | 174.0 | US 41, US 64, US 11 – Lookout Mountain, Chattanooga | Scenic area access.[90] |
| 177 | 177.0 | US 11, US 64 (Ringgold Road) – Chattanooga | Eastern suburbs.[89] |
| 178 | 178.0 | Belvoir Avenue – East Ridge | Border community.[89] |
| 180 | 180.0 | SR-320 (South Chickamauga Creek Road) | Local.[89] |
| 181 | 181.0 | US 41, US 76 (4th Street) – Chattanooga | Downtown connector.[89] |
| 182 | 182.0 | US 27, US 127 (Germantown Road, MLK Boulevard) – Chattanooga | Northern access. Site of June 2025 full closures for widening.[89][85] |
| 183 | 183.0 | Germantown Road – Chattanooga | [89] |
| 184 | 184.0 | US 64, US 72 (Rossville Boulevard) – Chattanooga | Final Tennessee exit before eastern terminus.[89] |
| 185A | 185.0 | I-75 North – Knoxville | Eastern terminus; split interchange with I-75.[89] |
| 185B | 185.0 | I-75 South – Atlanta | Eastern terminus; split interchange with I-75.[89] |
Georgia
Interstate 24's segment in Georgia is a brief 4.09-mile (6.58 km) stretch entirely within Dade County in the northwestern part of the state, entering from Tennessee near Wildwood and re-entering Tennessee shortly thereafter to avoid Raccoon Mountain. This portion facilitates the northern terminus of Interstate 59 and provides the only interchange within Georgia, connecting to local roads that link to Chattanooga's grid via U.S. Route 11. The highway is four lanes throughout, with mileposts resetting to 0.00 at the western state line while exit numbers continue sequentially from Tennessee's system. Ramp configurations at the interchange are designed for efficient access, with the folded diamond setup at Exit 169 allowing full movements to and from State Route 299.[31][9][32][33] The following table lists the key points along the Georgia segment, including entry/exit points and the single interchange, with approximate mile markers based on Georgia's internal numbering.| Mile | Exit | Destinations | Ramp Configuration and Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.00 | — | Tennessee state line | Western entry into Georgia; continuation from Eastern Tennessee segment near mile 169. No ramps. |
| 1.49 | 169 | GA 299 east to US 11 – Wildwood; GA 299 west to TN 134 – Hooker | Folded diamond interchange with loop ramps for westbound off and eastbound on; provides access to Wildwood and ties into Chattanooga's local grid via US 11 (Chattanooga Valley area).[31][33] |
| 2.78 | 167 | I-59 south – Birmingham, AL | Trumpet interchange serving as northern terminus of I-59; full access ramps in all directions from I-24. No local Georgia access here.[9][34] |
| 4.09 | — | Tennessee state line | Eastern exit from Georgia; resumes Tennessee mile markers and continues toward Chattanooga (mile ~172). No ramps. |