Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) crews will open the newly constructed permanent ramp from James White Parkway northbound to I-40 westbound on Wednesday, July 2. The new ramp is part of the ongoing SmartFIX40 project. The new ramp replaces the James White Parkway ramp that merged into I-40 from the left and was difficult to navigate during heavy traffic. The new ramp will merge into I-40 on the right, creating a safer and more efficient driving condition. 
 
"The SmartFIX40 project continues to move forward as anticipated," said TDOT Commissioner Gerald Nicely. "The new ramp from James White Parkway to I-40 west is a big improvement and just one step in the massive reconstruction of I-40 that will be completed on or before June 30, 2009." 
 
On Monday, July 7, the new two-lane ramp will be configured to also accommodate traffic from I-40 eastbound to JWP southbound. This traffic shift will allow work crews to demolish and reconstruct the last remaining portion of the old I-40 eastbound bridge deck that spans over Broadway, Gay Street, Williams Street, N. Central Street and Magnolia Avenue.

SmartFIX40 is TDOT's single most expensive construction project in its 90 year history. SmartFIX40 is an accelerated construction process that involves closing a primary roadway to allow around-the-clock work that is uninterrupted by traffic in order to dramatically shorten the time it takes to complete the project, thereby reducing the long-term inconvenience to motorists.