Manchester, Tennessee will once again host the annual Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, one of the most popular live music events in the country.
Manchester and its surrounding areas always experience increased traffic during this time. The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) is preparing for additional traffic.
TDOT is working closely with the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP), Manchester Police Department, Manchester Fire and Rescue Department, Coffee County Sheriff’s Department, Coffee County EMA and festival promoters to keep traffic flowing on Interstate 24 while moving Bonnaroo Participants are transported to their destination.
“TDOT is once again coordinating with our agency partners to ensure safe and efficient travel during the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival,” said Lieutenant Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “The main goal is to keep traffic flowing on Interstate 24 while allowing festival-goers to safely enter and exit the Bonnaroo venue. Through this planning, we believe we can successfully reduce traffic delays throughout the weekend.
TDOT HELP units will assist with traffic management during the holiday season and provide assistance to any motorists who need assistance. In addition, TDOT will take the following actions:
- We will focus on keeping traffic flowing on I-24.
- HELP trucks will be on site patrolling interstates and interstates throughout the festival area.
- Exit 111 (SR-55) will serve as the main exit for the festival. If there is congestion on the interstate, alternate exits will be used.
- TDOT maintenance units will be located throughout the festival area, and maintenance crews will be on call throughout the weekend.
- Variable information signs will be in place to warn drivers ahead of delays.
- There will be no lane closures due to construction on Interstate 24 near the festival from 6:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 12, 2024, to 7:00 p.m. Monday, June 17, 2024.
- Center intersections will be guarded to prevent motorists from stopping at the intersection and blocking emergency vehicles.
- Holiday traffic will be kept in the right lane and/or interstate shoulder, allowing through traffic to use the left lane unimpeded.
- Emergency vehicles will use county roads to keep traffic low.
- Temporary communications towers will be set up to improve emergency communications.
If drivers need assistance from State Police while traveling anywhere in Tennessee, they can call *THP (*847) from their cell phone. They will automatically be connected to the nearest THP dispatch office, and the operator will send a state trooper to their location.
From your desktop or mobile device, visit www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic for the latest construction activity and livestreaming SmartWay traffic cameras. As always, we remind drivers to use all driver information tools wisely and “Know before you go! Check travel conditions before traveling to your destination. Drivers should never tweet, text or talk on the phone while driving.
