Trucking news and briefs for November 1, 2024:
I-26 reopens with one lane in each direction in Tennessee
Following disastrous flooding during Hurricane Helene, I-40 near the North Carolina-Tennessee line remains closed, but on I-26 in Tennessee’s Unicoi County, where Nolichucky River flooding collapsed bridge spans more than a month ago, there is now at least one interstate connection operable between Tennessee and North Carolina. Tennessee Department of Transportation officials announced a partial reopening Wednesday, October 30, with a single lane both east- and westbound.
TDOT’s Mark Nagi reported on the situation to clarify questions from truckers and others.
Restrictions to travel that remain on the route are only for oversize/overweight loads. Various media reports previously, incorrectly suggested loads 12 feet in length, rather than width, were prohibited.
“Any overweight and over-dimensional vehicles must continue to use the established I-81 and I-77 detour,” Nagi added.
Crews will now work to establish more permanent replacements for the two spans east and west, work that will take much longer than this temporary replacement.
Keep tuned to TDOT’s SmartWay site for map views of traffic, construction and more.
[Related: I-40 reopening could take ‘months or years’: DOT Secretary Buttigieg]
TCA accepting nominations for five truck drivers of the year through this month
The nomination period will close Dec. 6, 2024 for the Truckload Carriers Association’s Professional Drivers of the Year awards.
The program celebrates five drivers, TCA said, with a prize of $20,000 per driver and recognition at TCA events and publications throughout the year. TCA seeks nominees that show a commitment to safety and demonstrate leadership on and off the road, contributing to the success of their companies or to the trucking industry. Drivers must be nominated and employed by a TCA carrier member.
The program, sponsored by Love’s Travel Stops and Cummins, “plays a vital role in honoring the dedication and hard work of exceptional truck drivers,” said TCA Vice President Zander Gambill.
Applications to nominate a driver are open and can be submitted via this link. Winners will be recognized during TCA’s convention in Phoenix, Arizona, in March.
[Related: Biz strength in family legacy, diversification: Zimmerman Ag, Overdrive Truckers of the Month]