BRADY FLANIGANStaff Writer

The Board of Mayor and Aldermen voted 7-0 on Monday, Feb. 10, to approve a temporary closure of Big Springs Avenue at Highway 55/Wilson Avenue to make way for bridge construction over Rock Creek. The closure, requested by the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), is set to begin May 27 and last through July 30—weather permitting.

TDOT says the closure is necessary for safety, as excavation and construction will require placing a crane and other equipment in a way that makes it too hazardous for vehicles turning onto Wilson Avenue. A temporary barrier rail will be installed to secure the work zone.

The project is expected to wrap up before the start of the 2025-26 school year, and to keep traffic moving, the city is rolling out a temporary plan for Tullahoma High School. One lane will be open in the mornings for vehicles entering Big Springs Avenue and in the afternoons for those leaving. A school resource officer or police patrolman will be stationed at the intersection during peak school hours to help with traffic flow.

City departments—including Public Works, Police, and Fire—have signed off on the plan. Emergency response teams say they’ll still be able to provide services in the area, and Tullahoma City Schools has weighed in on how the closure might impact afternoon dismissal traffic near the high school.

The city will be working with TDOT throughout the project, keeping an eye on progress and making any necessary adjustments along the way.