SEVIER COUNTY, Tenn. — Repaving work officially began Tuesday on State Route 338, also known as Boyd’s Creek Highway, marking the start of an ambitious road improvement initiative across East Tennessee. This effort comes in the wake of a historic funding increase for the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), approved as part of the state budget passed in April.
TDOT spokesperson Mark Nagi explained that the state allocated a one-time infusion of $1 billion, along with $80 million in recurring annual funds, to address critical infrastructure needs.
“This is the first time we’ve received this level of funding, which will allow us to complete more repairs, and complete them faster,” Nagi said.
The funding will enable TDOT to resurface approximately 130 additional miles of roadway annually. Maintenance work includes not only repaving but also essential bridge and pavement repairs across the region.
TDOT plans to adhere to resurfacing cycles aiming to maintain interstates every 8 to 10 years and state routes every 12 to 14 years. However, Nagi noted that Eastern Tennessee’s harsher winter conditions necessitate more frequent repairs.
“Our roads take a beating with the winter weather here, so sometimes we have to accelerate our schedules to keep up,” he said.
Nagi emphasized the importance of maintaining what the state already has, calling the initiative part of TDOT’s “State of Good Repair” mission. Tennessee operates as a pay-as-you-go state with no transportation debt, meaning consistent upkeep is essential for long-term sustainability.
Among the roadways slated for repaving in the fiscal year 2026 (July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026) are several major routes throughout East Tennessee. In Sevier County, the focus will be on SR 71 from the Smoky Mountain Park boundary to Dudley Creek. Other counties including Anderson, Blount, Campbell, Cocke, Cumberland, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Jefferson, Knox, Loudon, Monroe, Morgan, Roane, and Scott will also see targeted improvements.
TDOT encourages motorists to report any interstates or state routes in need of maintenance by calling 1-833-TDOT-FIX or submitting an online form.
With these investments, East Tennessee drivers can expect smoother, safer roads in the coming years, helping to support the region’s growth and economic vitality.
