During the final quarter of 2015, there was a lot activity throughout the job site at the Bridge over Broad - or the intersection of Memorial, Broad and Old Fort Parkway.

Now, as temperatures become too low for asphalt work, there will be a heavy emphasis on retaining wall construction, according to a progress report released by the Tennessee Department of Transportation. Motorists travelling through the construction zone will notice the widening along the east side of Broad Street as well as the progression of the retaining walls and ramps on the south side of the Broad and Memorial intersection.

The widening work along the east side of Broad Street is not entirely complete, but it did allow for the opening of the new driveways to Wilson's Bank, Hooters, and Logan's Roadhouse. The intersection of Broadmor Boulevard and Broad Street was closed on December 14th to facilitate the construction of the new roadway alignment. Highways Inc. is currently performing removal and grading operations in the area.

During the next quarter, Bell & Associates will continue to focus on the retaining walls that will be part of the southwest and southeast ramps for the new overpass. Further development of the aforementioned ramps will also continue as construction of the walls permit. The ramp work should include the completion of subgrade activities, placement of the base course, and potentially new curb and gutter. In addition to work on the south side of the intersection, Bell has a crew currently placing the footing for a retaining wall on the northwest ramp. This wall can be seen between Memorial Boulevard and Haynes Bros. Lumber yard.

As always, motorists are urged to use caution, reduce speed, and be alert to changing road conditions in the construction zone.