If you have been through Knoxville lately you may have noticed that I-40 through downtown has been closed. It is part of a project the TN Department of Transportion has dubbed Smartfix 40.

It has rerouted the through traffic to what was the Knoxville bypass I-640 and traffic north on I-75 onto I-275.  They are building bridges through downtown and also are resurfacing and widening the roads. 

When this project got underway I thought that it would create chaos and make it nearly impossible to get across town. Only at morning and evening rush hours does it even slow down, and not for long. I am impressed with the way things have worked out. It really has gone off without a hitch.

I spoke to a lot of people who thought the term 'Smartfix' would come back to haunt them but as far as I can see it has been pretty smart. Also, the improvements were much needed and will help keep Knoxville beautiful for a long time.