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Regional Boards => Mid-South => Topic started by: Chris on July 19, 2009, 11:10:48 AM

Title: Interstate 269
Post by: Chris on July 19, 2009, 11:10:48 AM
I am confused by I-269.

As far as I know, it is supposed to make a beltline around Memphis. It is under construction as Tennessee SR-385 north and east of Memphis. I am not sure if the Mississippi SR-304 (also signed as I-69 on maps) between Hernando and the US 61 is also part of this project, but if it is, it will be like a 70 mile partial beltway around the northern, eastern and southern side of Memphis. Are there also plans to create an I-269 in Arkansas, thus completing a beltway? If it is, it might be one of the longest beltways in the United States, and the second 3-digit to enter 3 states.

I'm also not sure how the I-69 would run through the Memphis area. Will it run along I-55 and I-240 through downtown? Or will it run along future I-269 much like I-95/I-495 around Washington? It seems quite a detour to use I-269 east of Memphis if I-69 will run along US 61 in Mississippi and US 51 in Tennessee.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rickmastfan67 on July 19, 2009, 11:24:55 AM
Quote from: Chris on July 19, 2009, 11:10:48 AM
I'm also not sure how the I-69 would run through the Memphis area. Will it run along I-55 and I-240 through downtown? Or will it run along future I-269 much like I-95/I-495 around Washington? It seems quite a detour to use I-269 east of Memphis if I-69 will run along US 61 in Mississippi and US 51 in Tennessee.

I-55 > I-240 > I-40 > TN-300 > US-51 for I-69 in the Memphis area.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on July 19, 2009, 01:06:04 PM
Only the segment of MS 304 to the east of I-55 will become I-269.  West of I-55, it's already signed as I-69 except for the westernmost mile or so to US 61 (I-69 splits off at what was MS 713).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SSF on July 19, 2009, 02:59:31 PM
MDOT needs to fix that dip on the I-69 eastbound bridge currently marked with the "DIP" sign, i went over it at 45 and it was scary as heck.

Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Chris on July 19, 2009, 03:00:55 PM
So it'll be like this? (my great paint.net skills  :) )
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi31.tinypic.com%2F282ke8n.jpg&hash=0d10a2da89f8f0f5b758cbabec0770d35b4bb146)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on July 19, 2009, 04:47:54 PM
More or less, although it won't directly follow either US 61 or US 51 in the area you show.  It'll be new alignment...the alignment in Mississippi (http://www.gomdot.com/Home/Projects/I69/pdf/I69-SIU11-Map.pdf) has been finalized.  While a preferred alignment has been selected in Tennessee, there isn't an easy-does-it map on the Tennessee side, but the preferred alignment will be west of and parallel to US 51.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bryant5493 on July 19, 2009, 10:55:32 PM
Here's a video of I-69 North/S.R. 304 East.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfuBjiATsEI (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wfuBjiATsEI)

So, let me see if I got this right. Is the I-269 beltway supposed to loop from Memphis into Mississippi into Arkansas then back into Memphis again?


Be well,

Bryant
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rickmastfan67 on July 19, 2009, 11:22:40 PM
Quote from: Bryant5493 on July 19, 2009, 10:55:32 PM
So, let me see if I got this right. Is the I-269 beltway supposed to loop from Memphis into Mississippi into Arkansas then back into Memphis again?

No. I-269 will not even enter Arkansas.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bryant5493 on July 19, 2009, 11:48:32 PM
^^ Oh, okay.


Be well,

Bryant
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Sykotyk on July 20, 2009, 12:04:08 AM
Question:

With that layout, will the new I-22 (current US-78) ever reach I-240? Or will it simply end at I-269 or follow I-269 west to I-69 or north to I-40, etc?

That stretch of US-78 looks like it'd need some major work, or be aligned elsewhere, to make I-22 continue to I-240/I-40.

Sykotyk
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Chris on July 20, 2009, 09:49:47 AM
That's a good question, I wondered why I-22 doesn't lead to the Nonconnah Parkway near Collierville (slightly to the north). That would make an easy way to connect to I-240.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on July 20, 2009, 11:53:11 AM
TDOT has no plans to upgrade their portion of US 78 to freeway.

Haven't gotten an answer from MDOT about I-22's future routing, but the two popular theories going around are that it'll either A) end at I-269, or B) duplex with I-269 to end at I-55/I-69.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Chris on July 20, 2009, 01:07:26 PM
Quote from: froggie on July 20, 2009, 11:53:11 AM
or B) duplex with I-269 to end at I-55/I-69.


That would make an I-22/I-55/I-69/I-269 interchange. I'm sure one of you trivia-gurus know if a 4-interstate interchange is rare or not.  :cool:
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: xonhulu on July 20, 2009, 06:59:25 PM
I-44-55-64-70 in St Louis, at least after US 70 gets re-routed.  It's signed like it has all 4 freeways now, but I'm not sure I-44 officially makes it there now.  Anyone?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Anthony_JK on July 20, 2009, 07:08:55 PM
Quote from: froggie on July 20, 2009, 11:53:11 AM
TDOT has no plans to upgrade their portion of US 78 to freeway.

Haven't gotten an answer from MDOT about I-22's future routing, but the two popular theories going around are that it'll either A) end at I-269, or B) duplex with I-269 to end at I-55/I-69.


Ending a 2di at a 3di doesn't really make much sense to me.

Duplexing I-22 along MS 304/I-269 probably makes more sense....but how confusing would it be to have TWO interstate highways terminating at the same exact point??

I'd prefer the former as a temporary solution, with I-269 between the I-22 and I-55/I69 interchanges shielded with "TO I-22" shields. Sooner or later, they'll have to  make some form of connection with I-240, though, to make it complete....possibly to promote access to Memphis' airport. Perhaps maybe an expessway connection with existing US 78 as a stopgap until there is funding for a proper freeway upgrade??


Anthony
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Revive 755 on July 20, 2009, 08:28:09 PM
Quote from: xonhulu on July 20, 2009, 06:59:25 PM
I-44-55-64-70 in St Louis, at least after US 70 gets re-routed.  It's signed like it has all 4 freeways now, but I'm not sure I-44 officially makes it there now.  Anyone?

Really depends upon the source.  Going by signage only SB I-55 overlaps with I-44.  The FHWA route log has I-55 overlapping I-44 (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/reports/routefinder/table1.cfm (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/reports/routefinder/table1.cfm)), but then it seems to be somewhat error-prone for the St. Louis region (just check the IL mileage for I-70).  The EIS for the SB I-55 viaduct between that interchange and the I-44 interchange was labeled for I-44, so take your pick. 

But after I-70 gets relocated, and before the full build out of the new bridge plans, there will be a pair of three interstate interchanges, with I-44/I-55/I-64 at the west end of the PSB, and I-55/I-64/I-70 at the Tri-Level.  Though the Tri-Level could stay as a three interstate junction should the I-64 connector to the new bridge get a three digit designation.


(Edited to fix I-54 typo in second to last line)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mightyace on July 21, 2009, 02:25:24 AM
Quote from: Revive 755 on July 20, 2009, 08:28:09 PM
But after I-70 gets relocated, and before the full build out of the new bridge plans, there will be a pair of three interstate interchanges, with I-44/I-55/I-64 at the west end of the PSB, and I-55/I-64/I-70 at the Tri-Level.  Though the Tri-Level could stay as a three interstate junction should the I-54 connector to the new bridge get a three digit designation.

I-54?  Am I missing something or is that a typo?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on July 21, 2009, 06:27:14 AM
He probably meant I-64...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on July 21, 2009, 07:40:03 AM
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on July 19, 2009, 11:22:40 PM
No. I-269 will not even enter Arkansas.

I've always thought that it would make sense to connect the NW terminus of I-269 in Tennessee with the I-55/I-555 interchange in Arkansas via a new Mississippi River bridge. This would provide Memphis with a third bridge across the Mississippi, provide a more direct route between Memphis and Jonesboro, and provide a bypass for through trucks on I-55 or I-40 or from I-69 north to I-40 west.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: hbelkins on July 21, 2009, 09:07:05 AM
Quote from: xonhulu on July 20, 2009, 06:59:25 PM
I-44-55-64-70 in St Louis, at least after US 70 gets re-routed.  It's signed like it has all 4 freeways now, but I'm not sure I-44 officially makes it there now.  Anyone?

I-44 does NOT make it to I-64 & I-70. Signage on I-44 indicates that it ends and to continue north on I-55.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on July 21, 2009, 02:09:54 PM
QuoteI-44 does NOT make it to I-64 & I-70. Signage on I-44 indicates that it ends and to continue north on I-55.

According to both MoDOT and FHWA, I-44 does make it to I-64/I-70.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Revive 755 on July 21, 2009, 03:21:18 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on July 21, 2009, 09:07:05 AM
Quote from: xonhulu on July 20, 2009, 06:59:25 PM
I-44-55-64-70 in St Louis, at least after US 70 gets re-routed.  It's signed like it has all 4 freeways now, but I'm not sure I-44 officially makes it there now.  Anyone?

I-44 does NOT make it to I-64 & I-70. Signage on I-44 indicates that it ends and to continue north on I-55.

Depends on which signs you go by:
http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=38.61345,-90.197325&spn=0,359.956055&z=15&layer=c&cbll=38.61353,-90.197291&panoid=obq6QXf3RtNmJHsM7Rk7mQ&cbp=12,38.02,,0,-3.44 (http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=38.61345,-90.197325&spn=0,359.956055&z=15&layer=c&cbll=38.61353,-90.197291&panoid=obq6QXf3RtNmJHsM7Rk7mQ&cbp=12,38.02,,0,-3.44)

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=38.622017,-90.18886&spn=0,359.989014&z=17&layer=c&cbll=38.62217,-90.188807&panoid=PJFShzv1vziI0a7lfEcn7w&cbp=12,191.71,,0,3.51 (http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=38.622017,-90.18886&spn=0,359.989014&z=17&layer=c&cbll=38.62217,-90.188807&panoid=PJFShzv1vziI0a7lfEcn7w&cbp=12,191.71,,0,3.51)

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=38.617652,-90.181033&spn=0,359.997253&t=k&z=19&layer=c&cbll=38.61774,-90.181373&panoid=oUNAfqM2WD3wvKDIE_TUOA&cbp=12,282.16,,0,-3.17 (http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=38.617652,-90.181033&spn=0,359.997253&t=k&z=19&layer=c&cbll=38.61774,-90.181373&panoid=oUNAfqM2WD3wvKDIE_TUOA&cbp=12,282.16,,0,-3.17)

Two of the few correct signs if I-44 ends at I-55:
http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=38.62949,-90.186059&spn=0,359.994507&t=k&z=18&layer=c&cbll=38.629586,-90.186062&panoid=YxkLm_OKe0xy8lqzLyIlBg&cbp=12,175.46,,0,-2.47 (http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=38.62949,-90.186059&spn=0,359.994507&t=k&z=18&layer=c&cbll=38.629586,-90.186062&panoid=YxkLm_OKe0xy8lqzLyIlBg&cbp=12,175.46,,0,-2.47)

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=38.650696,-90.193022&spn=0,359.994507&t=k&z=18&layer=c&cbll=38.650406,-90.192877&panoid=YH8bnSkjEvZy2GHTMGhr9w&cbp=12,146.14,,0,-29.45 (http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&ie=UTF8&ll=38.650696,-90.193022&spn=0,359.994507&t=k&z=18&layer=c&cbll=38.650406,-90.192877&panoid=YH8bnSkjEvZy2GHTMGhr9w&cbp=12,146.14,,0,-29.45)

Regarding extending I-269 into Arkansas, I believe there is a semi-active study for a third Mississippi River crossing at Memphis, but I think it would be closer to downtown than the northern end of I-269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on July 21, 2009, 05:54:13 PM
TDOT did a bridge feasibility study (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/documents/MRCexecsum.pdf) back in 2006, and came up with 4 corridors for further study (on the map on the last page).  None would extend I-269 into Arkansas.  What I would consider the main frontrunner (most traffic impact, lowest cost, and lowest environmental impact) would basically be an extension of TN 300 west across the river, connecting either to the I-40/I-55 interchange in West Memphis, or to I-55 north of Marion.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mightyace on July 21, 2009, 06:11:27 PM
Quote from: froggie on July 21, 2009, 05:54:13 PM
TDOT did a bridge feasibility study (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/documents/MRCexecsum.pdf) back in 2006, and came up with 4 corridors for further study (on the map on the last page).  None would extend I-269 into Arkansas.  What I would consider the main frontrunner (most traffic impact, lowest cost, and lowest environmental impact) would basically be an extension of TN 300 west across the river, connecting either to the I-40/I-55 interchange in West Memphis, or to I-55 north of Marion.

This bridge idea was studied as a pilot project under the Tennessee Tollway Act.

Tolls are briefly mentioned in feasibility study mentioned in froggie's post and you can link to the TTA thread here (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=475.msg11009#msg11009)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Revive 755 on July 21, 2009, 08:48:20 PM
Looking through the bridge feasibility study, I really like the Bridge C option, as it could provide a better route for I-40 through Memphis and eliminate the turn at the western I-240 interchange.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Revive 755 on July 23, 2009, 04:32:45 PM
Found a few more maps for I-269:

http://www.memphisflyer.com/InTheBluff/archives/2009/07/23/i-269-the-routes (http://www.memphisflyer.com/InTheBluff/archives/2009/07/23/i-269-the-routes)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: interstate696 on July 30, 2009, 12:06:49 PM
Wow I'm in aw, didn't even know that there was a segement of I-69 built in MS, I thought it was in planning and was just built from Michigan to Indiana :clap: :clap: :clap: :) :) :D :sombrero:
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SSF on August 01, 2009, 01:35:50 AM
Quote from: interstate696 on July 30, 2009, 12:06:49 PM
Wow I'm in aw, didn't even know that there was a segement of I-69 built in MS, I thought it was in planning and was just built from Michigan to Indiana :clap: :clap: :clap: :) :) :D :sombrero:

you arent missing a whole lot in Mississippi, it's just a quicker way to get to casinos.   :D
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bryant5493 on August 01, 2009, 06:29:21 PM
^^ Yeah, pretty much.


Be well,

Bryant
Title: I-269 Memphis
Post by: Grzrd on November 10, 2010, 11:14:52 AM
MDOT appears to be planning on 2012 as start date for I-269 construction: http://m.commercialappeal.com/news/2010/nov/10/contract-will-get-i-69269-plan-rolling/

Quote
The proposed route from Toronto in Canada to Monterrey in Mexico will bisect DeSoto east to west through Hernando, running some 30 miles from the Marshall County line to Tunica County. McDougal said the Mississippi Department of Transportation's timetable calls for obtaining right of way this year and next, with the start of construction in 2012 ...
Title: Re: I-269 MS; 2012 Construction Start?
Post by: Anthony_JK on November 10, 2010, 01:00:15 PM
Why, oh freakin' why, do public officials insist on hyperbole??

The actual route of the I-69 extension is only going from the Tex-Mex border to Indianapolis...nowhere else.

And this segment only will run from I-55 to roughly the the Tennessee border.

Maybe Mississippi is just jealous that the Outer Memphis Bypass/I-269 didn't get the full I-69 designation??


Anthony
Title: Re: I-269 MS; 2012 Construction Start?
Post by: codyg1985 on November 10, 2010, 01:40:48 PM
Although the article talks more about an economic impact study of I-69/I-269, it is good to see that MDOT is anticipating building their portion of the loop in 2012. This bodes well for I-22 as well, since for the time being this loop will provide the other interstate connection needed for I-22 to become a reality..
Title: Re: I-269 MS; 2012 Construction Start?
Post by: Chris on November 12, 2010, 06:17:16 PM
QuoteWhy, oh freakin' why, do public officials insist on hyperbole??

The actual route of the I-69 extension is only going from the Tex-Mex border to Indianapolis...nowhere else.

I've seen many of such road project maps where a tiny village is shown as THE crossroad between major continental destinations. They're actually fun!
Title: Re: I-269 MS; 2012 Construction Start?
Post by: agentsteel53 on November 12, 2010, 07:38:34 PM
Quote from: Chris on November 12, 2010, 06:17:16 PM
QuoteWhy, oh freakin' why, do public officials insist on hyperbole??

The actual route of the I-69 extension is only going from the Tex-Mex border to Indianapolis...nowhere else.

I've seen many of such road project maps where a tiny village is shown as THE crossroad between major continental destinations. They're actually fun!

that's Indiana in general.  Crossroads of America?  Really, when did they annex Chicago?
Title: Re: I-269 MS; 2012 Construction Start?
Post by: NE2 on November 12, 2010, 08:02:10 PM
Chicago's more of a funnel than a crossroads :)
Title: Re: I-269 MS; 2012 Construction Start?
Post by: Grzrd on November 13, 2010, 04:49:05 PM
Quote from: Chris on November 12, 2010, 06:17:16 PM
I've seen many of such road project maps where a tiny village is shown as THE crossroad between major continental destinations. They're actually fun!
Do you have one or two favorites that you can share with us?
Title: Re: I-269 MS; 2012 Construction Start?
Post by: Hot Rod Hootenanny on November 13, 2010, 10:39:31 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 13, 2010, 04:49:05 PM
Quote from: Chris on November 12, 2010, 06:17:16 PM
I've seen many of such road project maps where a tiny village is shown as THE crossroad between major continental destinations. They're actually fun!
Do you have one or two favorites that you can share with us?

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.roadfan.com%2F40-25.jpg&hash=7245c458698c1b4ad1539d4963bab722294dbbff)
Intersection of Dixie Highway and National Road near Dayton
Title: Re: I-269 MS
Post by: Grzrd on March 13, 2011, 11:42:37 AM
(At least) three interesting comments from a consultant's meeting with DeSoto County MS officials:

1. Advocate for MS I-69/ MS I-269 link with Southern Gateway bridge;

2. A rail component could be added to MS I-269 corridor; and

3. Even though MS I-269 is planned to have eleven exits, it is primarily intended for freight, not local, traffic.
(I've already posted on points 1 & 2 on "Southern Gateway" thread on Mid-South page)

Regarding point #3, I have observed the evolution of I-285 in Atlanta over the years and I don't think the locals will ignore I-269 and its eleven exits ...

http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2011/03/05/news/doc4d71843b58e90902663282.txt

Quote
... Kevin Tilbury with Gresham Smith and Partners said the trade corridor comprises a two-mile area north and south of I-69/I-269.
"This will be the focus of a study area for the next year and a half," Tilbury said.
Tilbury said floodplains make up 22 percent of the corridor area and about 3 percent comprise wetlands. More than 126,000 acres are located within the study area.
Tilbury said from his observations, other east-west corridors are needed to take the pressure off the I-269 when completed.
Presently, I-69 stops at I-55 where I-269 will one day connect. Right-of-way has been acquired for the roadway but no construction on I-269 has begun.
"We want to keep as much local traffic off of it," Tilbury said, explaining the trade corridor is meant to transport goods and products from Mexico to Canada. "You can't make I-269 your main local road. It's not set up to do that," Tilbury said.
Dale said the completion of I-269 represents a golden opportunity.
"There (will be) 11 new interchanges with virtually nothing around them," Dale said of the entire I-69/I-269 stretch through eastern DeSoto County to Tennessee Highway 385 near Collierville. "It's pretty amazing to plan a corridor like this with 11 interchanges. We talk about the corridor as a blank slate. This is a tremendous opportunity. We hope to do it right the first time."
Planning Commissioner Robin James said DeSoto County officials are taking pains to make sure planning is done correctly.
"I don't think anybody wants to see this thing covered up with warehouses," James said. "Corporate offices would be great."
Commissioner Len Lawhon said the plan will involve a process known as "creative blending" of industrial, corporate, residential and other components ...
Title: Re: I-269 MS
Post by: hobsini2 on March 13, 2011, 01:10:18 PM
The real question with the I-269 Memphis Loop is if the northern crossing will be built due to how clost it is the a preserve and state park.
Title: Re: I-269 MS
Post by: froggie on March 13, 2011, 06:01:25 PM
If I-269 was truly intended for freight/long-distance traffic, they wouldn't have 11 exits along it.  It'd be more along the lines of 6.
Title: First Section of I-269 MS To Be Let On March 22
Post by: Grzrd on March 15, 2011, 02:36:29 PM
I had thought first letting would be in 2012 and was surprised to find out it will be in a week.  The section will be from south of SR 302 to the Tennessee state line.  Completion of the project is scheduled for October 16, 2013 and I have not pored through the plans for the scope of the project yet:

http://www.gomdot.com/applications/bidsystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=March 22, 2011

Quote
Construction of I-269/SR304 from South of SR 302 to the Tennessee State Line, known as Federal Aid Project No. STP-0029-03(010) / 102556305, in the County of Marshall, State of Mississippi.
Project Completion: 10/16/2013

I wonder if TDOT will now go ahead & complete short section from Mississippi state line to TN 385 near Collierville?
Title: Re: I-269 MS
Post by: codyg1985 on March 15, 2011, 03:27:09 PM
It appears the contract is for grading and bridge work by looking at the plan index.
Title: I-269/TN 385 Ahead of Schedule
Post by: Grzrd on March 15, 2011, 04:19:26 PM
I-269/TN 385 is approximately one year ahead of schedule and may be completed by the end of next year:

http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/feb/21/game-changer/

Quote
...  Thanks to favorable weather, work on the final segment of the Tenn. 385 outer-loop highway around Memphis is way ahead of schedule. In fact, it could open by late 2012 or early 2013 -- nearly a year earlier than scheduled -- connecting Collierville and areas along the Shelby-Fayette county line with Interstate 40 and Millington ...
It was only 15 months ago that Hill Brothers Construction Co. of Falkner, Miss., was awarded a $53.47 million contract to complete the grading, drainage and decking for the nearly eight-mile stretch of highway from near Macon to Tenn. 57 at Collierville.
The project encompasses eight bridges, including one that's 3,200 feet long over the Wolf River and the swamplands surrounding it.
The work was expected to be finished in September 2012, followed by a six-month paving project the year afterward. But Hill Brothers already is nearly two-thirds done with its work and could be finished by early 2012, meaning paving could be completed next year, as well.
"They've had some good construction weather," said Jason Baker, project manager for the Tennessee Department of Transportation.
Known in various sections as Paul Barret Parkway and Bill Morris Parkway, Highway 385 forms an approximately 50-mile-long horseshoe arcing from U.S. 51 in Millington eastward to Arlington, southward to Collierville and then back westward to Interstate 240 in southeast Memphis.
The portion from Millington to Collierville eventually will be part of the larger Interstate 269 loop around metropolitan Memphis ...

Quote from: Grzrd on March 15, 2011, 02:36:29 PM
I wonder if TDOT will now go ahead & complete short section from Mississippi state line to TN 385 near Collierville?

I found my answer in the above article:

Quote
...TDOT has begun acquiring right-of-way property for a three-mile stretch of I-269 extending from Collierville to the Mississippi line. Construction of the $40 million-plus project could begin next year ...
Title: Re: I-269 Memphis
Post by: Grzrd on March 22, 2011, 09:47:21 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on March 15, 2011, 02:36:29 PM
I had thought first letting would be in 2012 and was surprised to find out it will be in a week.  The section will be from south of SR 302 to the Tennessee state line.  Completion of the project is scheduled for October 16, 2013
Apparent low bid for the first construction project on Mississippi's section of I-269 that was let today (TN state line to south of MS 302) came in at approximately $19.5 million:

http://www.gomdot.com/bidsystem_data/20110322/LETDOCS/20110322CheckedBidResults.pdf

The actual bid award is scheduled for April 12:

http://www.gomdot.com/Applications/BidSystem/pdf/LettingDates.pdf
Title: Re: I-269 Memphis
Post by: kaothinterceptor on March 25, 2011, 03:37:30 PM
Breaking News: Google Maps jumps the gun on I-269, duplexing TN 385 with I-269 at it's northern terminus
Title: Re: I-269 Memphis
Post by: rickmastfan67 on March 25, 2011, 04:11:18 PM
Quote from: kaothinterceptor on March 25, 2011, 03:37:30 PM
Breaking News: Google Maps jumps the gun on I-269, duplexing TN 385 with I-269 at it's northern terminus

They have been doing this with a lot of "Future" Interstates.  If they have a StreetView car catch a shot of one of those "Future Interstate" corridor signs, they just go ahead and place the Interstate shields on the map.  Kinda stupid if you ask me because you can't always tell what's a real Interstate and what's not if you're not a roadgeek.
Title: Re: I-269 Memphis
Post by: kaothinterceptor on March 25, 2011, 04:20:09 PM
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on March 25, 2011, 04:11:18 PM
Quote from: kaothinterceptor on March 25, 2011, 03:37:30 PM
Breaking News: Google Maps jumps the gun on I-269, duplexing TN 385 with I-269 at it's northern terminus

They have been doing this with a lot of "Future" Interstates.  If they have a StreetView car catch a shot of one of those "Future Interstate" corridor signs, they just go ahead and place the Interstate shields on the map.  Kinda stupid if you ask me because you can't always tell what's a real Interstate and what's not if you're not a roadgeek.

I wonder if that's what caused the "I-136" error in Illinois...
Title: Re: I-269 Memphis
Post by: rickmastfan67 on March 25, 2011, 04:25:49 PM
Quote from: kaothinterceptor on March 25, 2011, 04:20:09 PM
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on March 25, 2011, 04:11:18 PM
Quote from: kaothinterceptor on March 25, 2011, 03:37:30 PM
Breaking News: Google Maps jumps the gun on I-269, duplexing TN 385 with I-269 at it's northern terminus

They have been doing this with a lot of "Future" Interstates.  If they have a StreetView car catch a shot of one of those "Future Interstate" corridor signs, they just go ahead and place the Interstate shields on the map.  Kinda stupid if you ask me because you can't always tell what's a real Interstate and what's not if you're not a roadgeek.

I wonder if that's what caused the "I-136" error in Illinois...

I don't think so.  I honestly think somebody was goofing off in their offices and thought this would be a good practical joke....
BTW, did you also notice that they also removed most of US-52 too?  You can hardly find any US-52 shields except on it's bannered routes plus up in sporadic shields.  Most of the time, you'll only find the "US-52" text to let you know about it.  It's also been this way for a couple of months.  Just like the I-136 thing.
Title: Re: I-269 Memphis
Post by: Buummu on April 28, 2011, 11:37:33 AM
yeah i saw that "US-52" text.. it is funny to think that Google Maps would have done that.. but what impressed me is that they acknowledged the "future" interstates though.......


I-269... is it Memphis' Outer Beltway?
Title: Re: I-269 Memphis
Post by: Grzrd on April 28, 2011, 08:21:49 PM
In the 2012-14 TIP released today, construction is scheduled to begin on the I-269 section from the Mississippi state line to TN 385 near Collierville in 2012 and paving is scheduled to begin on the final two sections of
TN 385/I-269 in 2013 [page 9/17 of the pdf]:

http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/Chief_Engineer/docs/2012-2014_Program.pdf
Title: Re: I-269 Memphis
Post by: Buummu on April 29, 2011, 04:00:43 PM
cool.. where will I-269 begin and end?
Title: Re: I-269 Memphis
Post by: Grzrd on April 29, 2011, 04:26:51 PM
Quote from: Buummu on April 29, 2011, 04:00:43 PM
cool.. where will I-269 begin and end?
Quote from: Grzrd on March 22, 2011, 09:47:21 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on March 15, 2011, 02:36:29 PM
I had thought first letting would be in 2012 and was surprised to find out it will be in a week.  The section will be from south of SR 302 to the Tennessee state line.  Completion of the project is scheduled for October 16, 2013
Apparent low bid for the first construction project on Mississippi's section of I-269 that was let today (TN state line to south of MS 302) came in at approximately $19.5 million
Here is link to Mississippi DOT's map of Mississippi portion of I-269, which begins at I-55/I-69 and goes east and north to Tennessee state line:

http://www.gomdot.com/Home/Projects/Studies/Northern/I269/Home.aspx

The Tennessee portion of I-269 will primarily be the current Tennessee 385:

Quote
... Known in various sections as Paul Barret Parkway and Bill Morris Parkway, Highway 385 forms an approximately 50-mile-long horseshoe arcing from U.S. 51 in Millington eastward to Arlington, southward to Collierville and then back westward to Interstate 240 in southeast Memphis.
The portion from Millington to Collierville eventually will be part of the larger Interstate 269 loop around metropolitan Memphis ...
(http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/feb/21/game-changer/)

South of Collierville, I-269 will split from TN 385 and go south to MS state line (I-240 to Collierville section of TN 385 will not be part of I-269).  This is the section on which the TIP indicates that construction will begin in 2012.

AFAIK there are no plans for an Arkansas segment of I-269, but that may change depending upon the route chosen for the Southern Gateway bridge.
Title: Re: I-269 Memphis
Post by: Buummu on April 30, 2011, 04:05:42 PM
awesome... now that I-269 is becoming a reality.. but what about the I-69 routing?
Title: Re: I-269 Memphis
Post by: Grzrd on April 30, 2011, 06:13:40 PM
Quote from: Buummu on April 30, 2011, 04:05:42 PM
but what about the I-69 routing?
Here's a link to a description of I-69's route through metropolitan Memphis [page1/4 of pdf], as well as a map of the route [page 4/4 of pdf]:

http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/i69/segment9/newsletters/0107.pdf

The pdf also has a description [page 1/4] and map [page 4/4] of I-269's route (stayin' on topic  :D)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rickmastfan67 on May 01, 2011, 01:00:21 AM
Just noticed that we had an older thread on I-269 and decided to merge the new and old ones together.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Buummu on May 01, 2011, 01:06:54 PM
awesome! I like how they route I-269... using mostly existing roads...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on May 09, 2011, 08:31:48 PM
MDOT issued an I-269 Project Update on May 6:

http://www.gomdot.com/Home/MediaRoom/newsreleases/PressReleaseDetail.aspx?ID=56201121420

Quote
Construction of I-269 in Marshall County  
The first section of I-269 has been let to contract.  Tanner Construction Company, Inc. of Ellisville, MS, has been awarded a $19,524,520 project that calls for the construction of the first leg of I-269 in Marshall County.  The project is approximately 3.1 miles long and goes from just South of SR 302 to the Tennessee state line.   Work completed under this contract will include clearing, earthwork, bridge construction, and drainage features.  The paving work will be let under a separate contract in the future.  The completion date for this project is scheduled for October 16, 2013.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Henry on May 12, 2011, 11:40:57 AM
Here's a map showing the loop, as well as the projected routing of I-69 through MS:

http://www.i69info.com/maps/ms_i69.pdf

According to this, I-22 will end at I-55 along the outer loop, meaning it won't go into TN. But why is I-269 labeled as I-669? Was that an original proposal, or simply a typo?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on May 12, 2011, 11:43:55 AM
That was a theoretical route number from the website owner, before it was announced that I-69 would go through Memphis and I-269 would go around (the "system alternative").

I-22 following the Outer Loop to I-55 was also a theory of his.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Henry on May 12, 2011, 03:19:27 PM
Quote from: froggie on May 12, 2011, 11:43:55 AM
That was a theoretical route number from the website owner, before it was announced that I-69 would go through Memphis and I-269 would go around (the "system alternative").

I-22 following the Outer Loop to I-55 was also a theory of his.

I see now.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Daniel Fiddler on May 14, 2011, 12:32:32 AM
I have to wonder if the Southern Gateway project will be a WESTWARD extension of I - 269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Anthony_JK on May 14, 2011, 09:57:41 AM
Probably not, since the segment west of the I-55/I-69/proposed I-269 junction is already signed as I-69.

Maybe as another x69, though??


Anthony
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Revive 755 on May 14, 2011, 10:41:20 AM
^ But there is a precedent for a bypass merging with the parent with I-87 and I-287 in New York.

The Southern Gateway Project needs a better name since it appears it would be open to a new bridge north of I-40; just call it the Third Bridge Project.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on May 14, 2011, 11:19:15 AM
Perhaps the name refers to a gateway to the South?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on June 08, 2011, 01:05:57 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 09, 2011, 08:31:48 PM
MDOT issued an I-269 Project Update on May 6:
http://www.gomdot.com/Home/MediaRoom/newsreleases/PressReleaseDetail.aspx?ID=56201121420
"Construction of I-269 in Marshall County  
The first section of I-269 has been let to contract.  Tanner Construction Company, Inc. of Ellisville, MS, has been awarded a $19,524,520 project that calls for the construction of the first leg of I-269 in Marshall County.  The project is approximately 3.1 miles long and goes from just South of SR 302 to the Tennessee state line.   Work completed under this contract will include clearing, earthwork, bridge construction, and drainage features.  The paving work will be let under a separate contract in the future.  The completion date for this project is scheduled for October 16, 2013."  
The groundbreaking ceremony for this section will be June 23 at the intersection of MS 302 and Mount Carmel Road.

The groundbreaking is mentioned in a Commercial Appeal article: (http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/jun/08/i-269-loop-stays-on-track/).  The article mistakenly indicates that the groundbreaking will be held at the DeSoto/Marshall county line, which is well to the west of the TN state line project.  I emailed MDOT and asked them if the county line location indicated a second I-269 project of which I had been unaware. The response:

Quote
I've attached an MDOT link that shows the complete I-269 corridor (http://www.gomdot.com/Home/Projects/Studies/Northern/I269/Home.aspx)
... The groundbreaking discussed on June 23 is for the small section of I-269 that will be built from MS Hwy 302 to the TN state line.  This section is shown as section 10 on the map.  The location of the ground-breaking is not correct in the article.  The groundbreaking will actually be at the intersection of MS 302 and Mount Carmel road, which can be seen on the map when you click on section 10.
The I-269 corridor has been designed to be built in smaller sections.  The entire corridor is discussed in the Commercial Appeal article and will run from the TN state line to the intersection of I-55/I-69 just south of Nesbit.

A roadgeek opportunity to be at the initial groundbreaking for a new Mississippi interstate ...

EDIT

The article indicates that the current estimated cost for all of I-269 in MS is $600 million.
Title: When Should I-269 Signage Go Up Around Memphis?
Post by: Grzrd on October 13, 2011, 08:26:09 AM
TN 385 currently has an interchange with I-40.  As such, in theory, the sections of TN 385 directly connected to I-40 could be signed as an interstate today.  However, the new interstate is destined to be a 3di, I-269.  I-269's 2di parent, I-69, probably will not have an interchange with I-269 at either location for another 20 years or so: (1) an underlying assumption of TDOT's Lamar Corridor Study has been that Mississippi's section of I-269 will be completed around 2030 and (2) the new terrain section of I-69 from I-40 to TN 385 has been divided into four construction segments, which in conjunction with tight money, might mean completion by 2030 could be overly optimistic (TDOT's description of four segments as follows:
The segment 9 from Hernando, Mississippi to State Route 385 in Tennessee will follow along the existing alignment for I-55 to I-240 then to I-40. Then from I-40 the alignment will follow a new alignment west of State Route 51 to State Route 385 (Future I-269). The new alignment has been divided into four different projects as follows:
1. From I-40 to South of State Route 388
2. From South of State Route 388 to Fite Road
3. From Fite Road to North of Woodstock/Cuba Road
4. From North of Woodstock/Cuba Road to State Route 385 (Future I-269)).
(http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/i69/segment9/status.htm)

Non roadgeeks probably would not care that the 3di child would not be connected to its 2di parent for such a long time.  Businesses probably would want I-269 signage ASAP.  Would AASHTO have objections to a 3di not being connected to its 2di parent for such a long period of time?

My primary question is: What should be the triggering event for I-269 signage to go up around Memphis?
My secondary question is: Should I-269 signage installation be done in conjunction with initial I-69 signage through Memphis, including possibly designating US 51 parallel to the new terrain section of I-69 described above as "TEMP I-69"?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on October 13, 2011, 08:32:03 AM
^ Since TN isn't signing I-69 along I-55 and I-240 in Memphis, I don't expect them to sign I-269 anytime soon.  Maybe when MS completes their segments of it so that I-55 and I-40 are joined, but I don't expect that to happen anytime soon, either.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on October 13, 2011, 12:47:34 PM
Quote(1) an underlying assumption of TDOT's Lamar Corridor Study has been that Mississippi's section of I-269 will be completed around 2030

Interesting, considering that MDOT already has a section in Marshall County under contract and has bond money to construct the rest.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on October 13, 2011, 01:19:09 PM
Quote from: froggie on October 13, 2011, 12:47:34 PM
Quote(1) an underlying assumption of TDOT's Lamar Corridor Study has been that Mississippi's section of I-269 will be completed around 2030
Interesting, considering that MDOT already has a section in Marshall County under contract and has bond money to construct the rest.
Good point.  The assumption of the Lamar Corridor Study was that I-269 would be completed by 2030 ("As part of this study, travel demand modeling was performed using the 2030 Memphis Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) regional travel demand model to analyze several potential Lamar Avenue capacity improvement options with specific attention paid to truck impacts." [page 31/81 of pdf] and "It should be noted that for all of the alternatives analyzed in this report, it was assumed that I-269 is completely built. [page 39/81 of pdf]" http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/documents/LamarAvenueCorridor_June2011.pdf), which certainly leaves open the possibility that I-269 could be completed well before that date.

In regard to the bond money, is anyone aware of any MDOT estimates of a completion date for all of I-269 in Mississippi that may have accompanied an announcement of the bond money?  And, is completion of I-269 in Mississippi the best guess as to the triggering event for I-269 signage in both Mississippi and Tennessee?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on October 17, 2011, 04:05:48 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 13, 2011, 08:26:09 AM
My primary question is: What should be the triggering event for I-269 signage to go up around Memphis?
I emailed TDOT and asked them the above question.  I was a little surprised that that the response, from the I-269 Project Manager, did not absolutely state that a connection with I-69 would be necessary.  Basically, no decision has been made at this time.

The response:

Quote
You are correct that SR 385 will be completed and open to traffic by the end of 2013 and that future I-269 will begin construction in 2012.  These projects are definitely ahead of the Shelby County I-69 projects in terms of development.  It has not been determined at this time when the sections of Future I-269 will be permanently signed I-269.  That decision will have to be reached after coordination between TDOT, Mississippi Department of Transportation (they have the adjoining sections of I-269 that will connect with I-55) and the Federal Highway Administration.

EDIT

Here is a link to a map which highlights TDOT's Future I-269 (non-TN 385 section) project in red and the four Shelby County I-69 projects in distinctive colors: http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/i69/segment9/maps/segment_map.pdf
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on October 18, 2011, 07:23:12 AM
I went and looked at the construction progress at the MS 302 interchange with I-269 yesterday. Obviously, right now there is just some grading work occurring at the interchange. It appears, however, that a culvert is being extended south of MS 302 east of I-269, which suggests that MS 302 will be relocated to the south for it's interchange with I-269.

I will have some pictures up later.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on October 28, 2011, 01:04:49 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 13, 2011, 01:19:09 PM
The assumption of the Lamar Corridor Study was that I-269 would be completed by 2030 ... which certainly leaves open the possibility that I-269 could be completed well before that date.
I emailed MDOT and asked them if they had a current estimated completion date for Mississippi's part of I-269.  It looks like 2020 is the current best guess.  MDOT's response (the District 2 Engineer):

Quote
The project is broken into 4 segments. The 4th segment is currently under construction. The remaining 3 segments are anticipated to under construction in the next 2 to 4 years . The completion will be in phases ranging between 2014 to 2020. These dates are approximate due to ROW and utility constraints on the 3 segments not under construction.
As far as the signing, it will be I-269/304 for the entire corridor.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on November 01, 2011, 08:03:46 AM
Google Maps' satellite imagery has been updated around Memphis, and it shows all of I-269 between Collierville and Arlington under construction. It also shows clearing along the portion of I-269 under construction in Mississippi north of MS 302.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on December 10, 2011, 12:29:37 PM
MDOT released an update on I-269 construction yesterday:
http://www.gomdot.com/Home/MediaRoom/newsreleases/PressReleaseDetail.aspx?ID=129201133548

Quote
Work is underway on the first section of I-269 in Marshall County. Tanner Construction Company, Inc. of Ellisville, MS, has been awarded a $19,524,520 contract for the construction of the first leg of I-269. This project is approximately 3.1 miles long and goes from just South of SR 302 to the Tennessee state line. Work completed under this contract will include clearing, earthwork, bridge construction, and drainage features. The paving work will be let under a separate contract in the future. Completion of this project is scheduled for October 2013.  Clearing and grubbing operations have been completed.  The contractor is currently installing drainage structures on the north and south sides of the I-269/Hwy 302 Interchange. Earthwork operations are also ongoing on the south side of the I-269/Hwy 302 Interchange. In Mississippi, I-269 will begin at the Intersection of I-55 and I-69 north of Hernando, cross Highway 78 near Byhalia and continue northeast to the Tennessee state Line. This project is one section of the planned nationwide I-69 project.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on December 30, 2011, 08:34:38 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 10, 2010, 11:14:52 AM
The proposed route from Toronto in Canada to Monterrey in Mexico will bisect DeSoto east to west through Hernando, running some 30 miles from the Marshall County line to Tunica County.
Quote from: Anthony_JK on November 10, 2010, 01:00:15 PM
Why, oh freakin' why, do public officials insist on hyperbole??
The actual route of the I-69 extension is only going from the Tex-Mex border to Indianapolis...nowhere else.
And this segment only will run from I-55 to roughly the the Tennessee border.
Maybe Mississippi is just jealous that the Outer Memphis Bypass/I-269 didn't get the full I-69 designation??

How about Tennessee regional leaders hoping that a $150,000 grant from the U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration will help I-269 become the "epicenter of North American trade" (in addition to identifying the corridor as the "I-269 International Trade Corridor")?:
http://blog.memphisdailynews.com/?p=3836

Quote
The U.S. Commerce Department's Economic Development Administration announced Friday, Dec. 30, a $150,000 grant for Shelby County Government to help develop a comprehensive planning effort to assist the county in developing the Interstate 69/Interstate 269 International Trade Corridor as well as addressing ways to mitigate flooding along the corridor.
The investment comes as part of disaster supplemental funding provided to EDA by Congress in response to massive flooding in the region in May 2010. Shelby Country was also declared a disaster area by the Federal Emergency Management Agency in response to the flooding ....
This investment will help create the blueprint and implementation strategies that regional leaders hope will make the I-269 International Trade Corridor the epicenter of North American trade. The comprehensive planning efforts will provide local government with the information and guidance to be utilized in future development plans along the Corridor.
The plan will also address strategies to mitigate flooding along the corridor area in an effort to protect development opportunities in the region.
"The planning effort will promote growth of existing industry clusters as well as identify and promote emerging clusters in the region,"  said Shelby County Mayor Mark Luttrell.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Roadmapfan66 on January 10, 2012, 11:59:25 PM
I want to know exactly where the new Interstate 69 extension is being built as of now?

Scott C. Presnal
Morro Bay, CA
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on January 16, 2012, 06:27:50 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 28, 2011, 01:04:49 PM
I emailed MDOT and asked them if they had a current estimated completion date for Mississippi's part of I-269.  It looks like 2020 is the current best guess.  MDOT's response (the District 2 Engineer):
"The project is broken into 4 segments. The 4th segment is currently under construction. The remaining 3 segments are anticipated to under construction in the next 2 to 4 years . The completion will be in phases ranging between 2014 to 2020. These dates are approximate due to ROW and utility constraints on the 3 segments not under construction... "
Quote from: Grzrd on April 28, 2011, 08:21:49 PM
In the 2012-14 TIP released today, construction is scheduled to begin on the I-269 section from the Mississippi state line to TN 385 near Collierville in 2012 and paving is scheduled to begin on the final two sections of
TN 385/I-269 in 2013 [page 9/17 of the pdf]:
http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/Chief_Engineer/docs/2012-2014_Program.pdf
Quote from: Grzrd on January 16, 2012, 04:31:05 PM
Memphis MPO has posted its Direction 2040 Long Term Transportation Plan on the Direction 2040 website.  It looks like the new thought is to have all of I-69 from TN 300 to the Tipton County line, and I-269 from the interchange to TN 385, completed by 2020:
http://direction2040.com/library/Draft_Chapter_08%20(Implementation%20Plan).pdf
A map of the proposed highway transportation projects is on page 8-37 of the document and page 39/53 of the pdf ...
The new terrain I-269 section is included on the map as a 2020 project and I assume it is included in TN 300 to TN 385 I-69 project (which seems to be the case in this TDOT map: http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/i69/segment9/maps/segment_map.pdf).
above from "I-69 in TN" thread.
Quote from: codyg1985 on January 16, 2012, 05:54:21 PM
I'm also not really seeing anything pertaining to I-269 from I-55 to I-22 on this plan, which makes me wonder if construction will begin sooner on that rather than later?
above from "Interstate 22" thread.

I think it will be sooner rather than later.  The map shows that Marshall County, MS is not part of the MPO (making that segment of I-269 beyond the scope of the LRTP), but it also makes it look like I-269 in DeSoto County, MS is completed (a short section of I-269 also goes through a part of DeSoto County that is not part of the MPO, but most of DeSoto County's I-269 is part of the MPO).

Page 8-8 of the document (page 10/53 of pdf) briefly addresses the bond funding mechanism used to accelerate I-269's construction in North Mississippi:

Quote
Highway Enhancement through Local Partnerships (HELP)
An additional funding mechanism is being used in the Mississippi portion of the Memphis MPO area. In this
innovative program, the local agencies sell bonds to finance the construction of major projects. Federal funds are
used to repay the funding and the state pays the debt service on the bonds. This program has allowed the
Memphis MPO area to accelerate the construction of I-69/I-269 in North Mississippi.

I'm guessing that, in the eyes of the MPO, Mississippi's I-269 is already a "done deal" because of the bond financing and that it can be considered "complete" in that sense.  Similarly, I-269 in Tennessee from TN 385 to the Mississippi state line is shown as complete, presumably because construction on it is scheduled to begin this year under TDOT's 2012-14 TIP.

EDIT

The sections of I-269 mentioned above are considered part of the "existing and committed roadway network" (map at Figure 4.2 on page 4-5 of the document; page 9/62 of pdf):
http://direction2040.com/library/Draft_Chapter_04%20(Existing%20Conditions%20and%20Needs%20Assessment).pdf
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jpi on January 18, 2012, 01:15:50 AM
Hi Guys,
Cody and I area meeting up tomorrow afternoon and scouting the I-269 construction, my plan is to have a road meet later this spring with focus on this project, any input\ feedback is welcome. :)

Jason Ilyes
JPI
Lebanon, TN
Home of the Barrel
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on January 18, 2012, 09:01:41 PM
Construction is really moving along in Tennessee, and we even spotted a couple of "Future I-269 Corridor" signs along completed sections (TN 385 just south of TN 57 in Piperton). The Mississippi project is still in its early phases, with much of the grading work concentrated on the southern end of the project around the future MS 302 interchange.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on February 06, 2012, 11:00:58 AM
There won't be anything to see, but TDOT will probably let the TN 385 to Mississippi state line section of Future I-269 around the time of the Memphis meet.  TDOT's reply to my recent email on that subject:

Quote
TDOT does still intend to let the I-269 project, from SR 385 to the MS State line, in 2012.  We currently anticipate letting the project in March or April.

Good overall progress on I-269...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Henry on February 06, 2012, 12:24:49 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 06, 2012, 11:00:58 AM
There won't be anything to see, but TDOT will probably let the TN 385 to Mississippi state line section of Future I-269 around the time of the Memphis meet.  TDOT's reply to my recent email on that subject:

Quote
TDOT does still intend to let the I-269 project, from SR 385 to the MS State line, in 2012.  We currently anticipate letting the project in March or April.

Good overall progress on I-269...
I like seeing how well a project progresses along. Looks like the Indianapolis-to-Memphis part of I-69 will get completed before the rest of it does.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on March 08, 2012, 04:59:14 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 28, 2011, 01:04:49 PM
I emailed MDOT and asked them if they had a current estimated completion date for Mississippi's part of I-269.  It looks like 2020 is the current best guess.  MDOT's response (the District 2 Engineer):
Quote
The project is broken into 4 segments. The 4th segment is currently under construction. The remaining 3 segments are anticipated to under construction in the next 2 to 4 years . The completion will be in phases ranging between 2014 to 2020. These dates are approximate due to ROW and utility constraints on the 3 segments not under construction.

This March 3 article (http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/mar/03/officials-dc-trip-fruitful/) indicates that construction is anticipated to begin on at least some of the remaining segments by the middle of this year:

Quote
Supervisor Harvey Wayne Lee of Hernando reported funding is in place for construction of the Interstate 269 segment in North Mississippi as part of the International Trade Corridor, and that the state is in the final phases of buying right-of-way. Construction is expected to begin by the middle of the year.
"We're anxious to get it started and move DeSoto County forward," Lee said.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on March 20, 2012, 11:07:44 AM
I recently looked at MDOT's 2012-15 Draft STIP (http://sp.gomdot.com/Intermodal%20Planning/planning/Documents/2012-2015%20Draft%20STIP.pdf) and it provides an ambitious construction schedule for I-269 in Desoto County (page 34/305 of pdf) and Marshall County (page 45/305 of pdf).  Four separate "grade bridge 4 Lanes" projects are listed for 2012 and two more "grade bridge 4 Lanes" projects are listed for 2013.  Also, in 2013, there is a "grade bridge pave 4 Lanes" project from Future I-22 to MS 302 and a 2013 paving project from MS 302 to the Tennessee state line.  There are also two "Pave 4 Lanes" projects scheduled for 2015.  As far as I can tell, the only section of Mississippi's I-269 that is not scheduled to be under a paving contract by 2015 is a section from the Desoto/Marshall county line to "STA-835+00".

Brief Summary:
Desoto County
2012-13. 4 "grade bridge 4 Lanes" projects from I-55 to the Marshall County line.
2015. Paving project from I-55 to the Marshall County line.

Marshall County
2012-13.  3 "grade bridge 4 Lanes" projects from the Desoto County line to MS 302.
2013. a "grade bridge pave 4 Lanes" project from Future I-22 to MS 302.
2013. Pave from MS 302 to the Tennessee state line.
2015. Pave from "STA 835+00" to east of Mason Road (Mason Road is just east of Future I-22).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on March 29, 2012, 10:58:30 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on March 15, 2011, 04:19:26 PM
I-269/TN 385 is approximately one year ahead of schedule and may be completed by the end of next year:
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/feb/21/game-changer/
Quote
...  Thanks to favorable weather, work on the final segment of the Tenn. 385 outer-loop highway around Memphis is way ahead of schedule. In fact, it could open by late 2012 or early 2013 -- nearly a year earlier than scheduled -- connecting Collierville and areas along the Shelby-Fayette county line with Interstate 40 and Millington ....

I emailed TDOT and asked if the TN 385 project is still ahead of schedule.  Bad weather has slowed down construction and the project has gone from being way ahead of schedule to being approximately right on schedule.  TDOT's response:

Quote
Due primarily to the weather, especially the heavy flooding last spring, this project is not as far ahead of schedule as it was once.  We are currently still on schedule to have the base and paving project completed by the contract completion date of September 30, 2012.
The paving project is currently set to be let in August of this year.  We hope to have the paving project completed by the end of 2013.

Still good progress ...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on April 26, 2012, 02:27:17 PM
Although it's not official until Tennessee Governor Haslam signs the bill, it looks like this weekend's Memphis meet attendees will be looking at construction of a segment of TN 385/I-269 that will also be known as the Governor Winfield Dunn Parkway (http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/apr/26/portion-tennessee-385-will-be-named-governor-winfi/?CID=happeningnow):

Quote
Tennessee 385 -- the eastern semi-circle roadway linking the Memphis suburbs -- is about to have a third name on it: the Governor Winfield Dunn Parkway.
The state Senate gave final legislative approval today to a bill that designates the stretch of Tennessee 385 between U.S. 70 near Arlington and U.S. 72 at Collierville as the Governor Winfield Dunn Parkway in honor of the former Memphis dentist who in 1970 was elected Tennessee's first Republican governor in 50 years. Dunn, 84, now lives in Sumner County.
Tennessee 385 from U.S. 51 at Millington to near Arlington is designated as Paul W. Barret Parkway, and the section between I-240 in southeast Memphis to Collierville is designated as Bill Morris Parkway, which was first known as Nonconnah Parkway. Barret, who died in 1976, was a prominent Millington and Shelby County business and government leader. Morris was Shelby County sheriff and county mayor.
Part of the section of Tennessee 385 named after Dunn is still under construction, but the stretch between I-40 and Macon Road is already open to traffic.
The northern and eastern legs of Tennessee 385 will eventually also be designated as Interstate 269.
Senate Majority Leader Mark Norris, R-Collierville, and Rep. Barrett Rich, R-Somerville, sponsored the bill. It now goes to Gov. Bill Haslam for his signature.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Hot Rod Hootenanny on April 26, 2012, 08:37:50 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 26, 2012, 02:27:17 PM
Although it's not official until Tennessee Governor Haslam signs the bill, it looks like this weekend's Memphis meet attendees will be looking at construction of a segment of TN 385/I-269 that will also be known as the Governor Winfield Dunn Parkway (http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/apr/26/portion-tennessee-385-will-be-named-governor-winfi/?CID=happeningnow):

Quote
Tennessee 385 -- the eastern semi-circle roadway linking the Memphis suburbs -- is about to have a third name on it: the Governor Winfield Dunn Parkway.
The state Senate gave final legislative approval today to a bill that designates the stretch of Tennessee 385 between U.S. 70 near Arlington and U.S. 72 at Collierville as the Governor Winfield Dunn Parkway in honor of the former Memphis dentist who in 1970 was elected Tennessee's first Republican governor in 50 years. Dunn, 84, now lives in Sumner County.
Tennessee 385 from U.S. 51 at Millington to near Arlington is designated as Paul W. Barret Parkway, and the section between I-240 in southeast Memphis to Collierville is designated as Bill Morris Parkway, which was first known as Nonconnah Parkway. Barret, who died in 1976, was a prominent Millington and Shelby County business and government leader. Morris was Shelby County sheriff and county mayor.
Part of the section of Tennessee 385 named after Dunn is still under construction, but the stretch between I-40 and Macon Road is already open to traffic.
The northern and eastern legs of Tennessee 385 will eventually also be designated as Interstate 269.
Senate Majority Leader Mark Norris, R-Collierville, and Rep. Barrett Rich, R-Somerville, sponsored the bill. It now goes to Gov. Bill Haslam for his signature.
Make sure they all have toothbrushes.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on April 30, 2012, 09:00:33 AM
MDOT has listed on their May 22 letting a grade, drainage, and bridge project for I-269 from MS 305 to the Coldwater River:

QuoteGrade & Bridge, 4-lanes on SR 304/I-269 from SR 305 to Coldwater River Bridge, known as Federal Aid Project No. STP-0029-02(014) / 102556312 in DeSoto County.

http://sp.gomdot.com/Contract%20Administration/BidSystems/Pages/letting%20calendar.aspx
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on May 20, 2012, 08:40:32 PM
The Memphis MPO is conducting an I-269 TN Regional Vision Study (http://memphismpo.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=119&Itemid=417). The study will primarily address land-use issues along the already-defined corridor, but I thought it was worth posting because I like the map of I-269 (as well as I-69 in metro Memphis) developed for the study that is linked to the webpage:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FPU8Tj.jpg&hash=5a1d00689e196840e37af9e2a0292ba553bafd0c)

The MPO will be hosting Open Houses about the study in early June.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on June 19, 2012, 04:56:47 PM
MDOT's June 19 District Two Project Updates (http://sp.gomdot.com/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c%2D924d%2D498c%2Db14e%2Daafec6dc2864&ID=282&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273) reports that the project for the first section of Mississippi's I-269 is approximately 34% complete and that bridge work is about to begin:

Quote
I-269 in Marshall County

Work is underway on the first section of I-269 in Marshall County. Tanner Construction Company, Inc. of Ellisville, MS, has been awarded a $19,524,520 contract for the construction of the first leg of I-269. This project is approximately 3.1 miles long and goes from just South of SR 302 to the Tennessee state line. Work completed under this contract will include clearing, earthwork, bridge construction, and drainage features. The paving work will be let under a separate contract in the future.  The contractor is currently installing drainage structures on the north and south sides of the I-269/Highway 302 interchange.   Earthwork operations are also ongoing on the north and south side of the I-269/Highway 302 interchange, and installing and maintaining Erosion Control BMP's.  Bridge work is expected to begin the second week in June. The project is approximately 34 percent complete with an expected completion date of October 2013.  In Mississippi, I-269 will begin at the intersection of I-55 and I-69 north of Hernando, cross Highway 78 near Byhalia and continue northeast to the Tennessee state line. This project is one section of the planned nationwide I-69 project.

Quote from: codyg1985 on April 30, 2012, 09:00:33 AM
MDOT has listed on their May 22 letting a grade, drainage, and bridge project for I-269 from MS 305 to the Coldwater River:
QuoteGrade & Bridge, 4-lanes on SR 304/I-269 from SR 305 to Coldwater River Bridge, known as Federal Aid Project No. STP-0029-02(014) / 102556312 in DeSoto County.
http://sp.gomdot.com/Contract%20Administration/BidSystems/Pages/letting%20calendar.aspx

MDOT awarded a contract for the second MS I-269 project (referenced in above quote) subject to FHWA concurrence (http://www.gomdot.com/bidsystem_data/20120522/LETDOCS/20120522BidAwards.pdf) on June 12 (page 2/3 of pdf):

Quote
STP-0029-02(014) / 102556312
DESOTO COUNTY - Grade & Bridge, 4-lanes on SR 304/I-269 from SR 305 to Coldwater River Bridge
JOE MCGEE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.
6609 STEVE LEE DRIVE LAKE, MS 39092
$39,998,460.65
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on July 06, 2012, 09:45:13 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on March 20, 2012, 11:07:44 AM
I recently looked at MDOT's 2012-15 Draft STIP (http://sp.gomdot.com/Intermodal%20Planning/planning/Documents/2012-2015%20Draft%20STIP.pdf) and it provides an ambitious construction schedule for I-269 in ... Marshall County (page 45/305 of pdf) ... there is a 2013 paving project from MS 302 to the Tennessee state line.

I'm guessing that there is a good chance that there will be a joint I-269 ribbon-cutting at the TN/MS state line in 2015.  TDOT's August 3 letting (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Notices/notAug3.pdf) includes the 2.667 mile section of I-269 from the Mississippi state line to TN 385.  It will be for grading, drainage, construction of bridges, and paving with an estimated completion date of April 30, 2015 (page 4/8 of pdf):

Quote
FAYETTE AND SHELBY COUNTIES (Contract No. CNL024) Call No. 014
Project No. NH-I-269(23), 79469-3108-44, 24469-3105-44
The grading, drainage, construction of three (3) welded steel plate girder bridges, two (2) concrete Bulb-Tee beam bridges and paving on I-269 beginning at the Mississippi State line and extending to S.R. 385.
Project Length - 2.667 miles
Completion Time - On or before April 30, 2015

EDIT

Also, the paving project for the final 8.294 miles of the TN 385 section of I-269 will be let on August 3 (page 7/8 of pdf):

Quote
SHELBY AND FAYETTE COUNTIES (Contract No. CNL263) Call No. 034
Project No. NH-I-269(19), 79469-3106-44, 24269-3104-44
The paving on I-269 (S.R. 385) beginning at S.R. 57 (Poplar Avenue) and extending to S.R. 193 (Macon Road).
Project Length - 8.294 miles
Completion Time - On or before September 30, 2013

Once construction on these projects begins, all of Tennessee's part of I-269 will be scheduled to be completed by 2015, with the short exception of the new terrain I-69/ I-269 interchange northwest of Memphis.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on July 06, 2012, 10:43:30 PM
^ I am looking at the plans now, and it appears that this segment will be signed as I-269 when finished. :o
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on July 06, 2012, 10:47:18 PM
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FW6VUa.png&hash=395c2914d07a9e6d5818b73096f963cb137b2cdd)

Signs on I-269 North approaching TN 385

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKC1oW.png&hash=e7209b029253103538625ee8a85b0f53e2b5e19a)

Signs on US 72 east approaching I-269
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on July 06, 2012, 10:55:49 PM
^ Control cities of Evansville, IN and Shreveport, LA?  :-o back at you.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on July 06, 2012, 11:09:10 PM
Shreveport's stupid; I'd use Jackson, MS instead. But Evansville does make sense.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on July 06, 2012, 11:12:18 PM
Quote from: NE2 on July 06, 2012, 11:09:10 PM
Shreveport's stupid; I'd use Jackson, MS instead. But Evansville does make sense.

It will be probably decades before one could use I-69/269 to get to Shreveport. Evansvile may happen sooner, but not anytime soon.

Either way, I think these signs are simply a reference and are not to be installed as part of the project. They don't appear on the signage schedule. However, the I-269 reassurance shields and the I-269 0.2 mile markers do show up on the signage schedule.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: golden eagle on July 07, 2012, 12:03:54 AM
True enough, they may not be the actual control cities, but 269 won't come close enough to Jackson to used as a control city. Maybe Houston? I can see Evansville being used as a control city, but what are the chances Indianapolis might be used instead?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on July 07, 2012, 12:11:06 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on July 06, 2012, 11:12:18 PM
Quote from: NE2 on July 06, 2012, 11:09:10 PM
Shreveport's stupid; I'd use Jackson, MS instead. But Evansville does make sense.

It will be probably decades before one could use I-69/269 to get to Shreveport. Evansvile may happen sooner, but not anytime soon.
The future I-69 corridor is how you'd go to Evansville from I-269 currently.

Quote from: golden eagle on July 07, 2012, 12:03:54 AM
True enough, they may not be the actual control cities, but 269 won't come close enough to Jackson to used as a control city.
I-269 will connect to I-55 to Jackson. Shreveport traffic is probably best off going via Little Rock for now.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on July 07, 2012, 12:22:29 AM
Quote from: golden eagle on July 07, 2012, 12:03:54 AM
I can see Evansville being used as a control city, but what are the chances Indianapolis might be used instead?

Why not split the baby and use Bloomington?  :happy:
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: roadman65 on July 07, 2012, 10:43:11 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 07, 2012, 12:22:29 AM
Quote from: golden eagle on July 07, 2012, 12:03:54 AM
I can see Evansville being used as a control city, but what are the chances Indianapolis might be used instead?

Why not split the baby and use Bloomington?  :happy:
Well if Illinois was in charge of it, then Indy would be used all the way down at interstate junctions.  Indianapolis would pose no problem if they went that way.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: english si on July 07, 2012, 10:55:12 AM
I agree - while it is a loop off of I-69, I-69 through to Shreveport is a long way off and the current route is awkward (probably via Jackson), whereas I-55 is there already and will meet I-269 at the same interchange.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Anthony_JK on July 07, 2012, 11:36:22 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on July 06, 2012, 10:47:18 PM
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FW6VUa.png&hash=395c2914d07a9e6d5818b73096f963cb137b2cdd)

Signs on I-269 North approaching TN 385

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FKC1oW.png&hash=e7209b029253103538625ee8a85b0f53e2b5e19a)

Signs on US 72 east approaching I-269

Shreveport?!?!?!?!? SHREVEPORT?!?!?!? What...El Dorado or Haughton or Stonewall not good enough for them??  LOL
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: golden eagle on July 07, 2012, 01:57:32 PM
Quote from: NE2 on July 07, 2012, 12:11:06 AM
I-269 will connect to I-55 to Jackson.

I didn't even think about that when I made the comment. I was actually thinking of I-69.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on July 07, 2012, 09:12:40 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on March 20, 2012, 11:07:44 AM
I recently looked at MDOT's 2012-15 Draft STIP (http://sp.gomdot.com/Intermodal%20Planning/planning/Documents/2012-2015%20Draft%20STIP.pdf) and it provides an ambitious construction schedule for I-269 in Desoto County (page 34/305 of pdf) and Marshall County (page 45/305 of pdf).  Four separate "grade bridge 4 Lanes" projects are listed for 2012 and two more "grade bridge 4 Lanes" projects are listed for 2013.  Also, in 2013, there is a "grade bridge pave 4 Lanes" project from Future I-22 to MS 302 and a 2013 paving project from MS 302 to the Tennessee state line.  There are also two "Pave 4 Lanes" projects scheduled for 2015.  As far as I can tell, the only section of Mississippi's I-269 that is not scheduled to be under a paving contract by 2015 is a section from the Desoto/Marshall county line to "STA-835+00".

Brief Summary:
Desoto County
2012-13. 4 "grade bridge 4 Lanes" projects from I-55 to the Marshall County line.
2015. Paving project from I-55 to the Marshall County line.

Marshall County
2012-13.  3 "grade bridge 4 Lanes" projects from the Desoto County line to MS 302.
2013. a "grade bridge pave 4 Lanes" project from Future I-22 to MS 302.
2013. Pave from MS 302 to the Tennessee state line.
2015. Pave from "STA 835+00" to east of Mason Road (Mason Road is just east of Future I-22).

Looks like MDOT has "construction" for the section from Station 835+00 to Mason Rd up for the July 24th letting (http://sp.gomdot.com/Contract%20Administration/BidSystems/Pages/letting%20calendar.aspx).

EDIT: Clicking on the Buy Plans link further details the project as "Grade, Bridge, & 4-Lanes in MARSHALL (47) County, STP-0029-03(013) / 102556315, for Jul 24, 2012 letting"

I wonder where Station 835+00 is? It seems to be 15.81 miles from some point, which I assume to be the I-55/I-69/I-269 interchange.

EDIT 2: From my crude Google Earth measurement of the I-269 path through MS, assuming that station 0+00 is located at the I-55/I-69 interchange, station 835+00 is located just to the northeast of US 78/future I-22:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FpWsFB.jpg&hash=c6e5c556409839621cbd0029e09a65a6ace016a3)

Here is the entire path that I traced out in Google Earth up to station 835+00:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FjNubx.jpg&hash=f72fa67e8384e9270a02d64b0096d662eb583825)

EDIT 3: Looking at the plan index (http://www.gomdot.com/bidsystem_data/20120724/PLANDATA/102556315.pdf) seems to indicate that it does include at least part of the interchange with US 78/I-22. Unfortunately, this interchange has been downgraded from a cloverstack to a cloverleaf with C/D roads along US 78/I-22 and I-269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bugo on July 07, 2012, 11:26:02 PM
It's 2012 and they're still building cloverleafs. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Revive 755 on July 08, 2012, 01:47:32 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 06, 2012, 10:55:49 PM
^ Control cities of Evansville, IN and Shreveport, LA?  :-o back at you.

I'd think Nashville would be a better control city for NB I-269 south of I-40, with Evansville appearing at I-40.  Or at least sign Nashville/Evansville.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on July 08, 2012, 02:29:39 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on July 07, 2012, 09:12:40 PM
Looking at the plan index (http://www.gomdot.com/bidsystem_data/20120724/PLANDATA/102556315.pdf) seems to indicate that it does include at least part of the interchange with US 78/I-22. Unfortunately, this interchange has been downgraded from a cloverstack to a cloverleaf with C/D roads along US 78/I-22 and I-269.
Quote from: NE2 on July 07, 2012, 12:11:06 AM
Quote from: NE2 on July 06, 2012, 11:09:10 PM
Shreveport's stupid; I'd use Jackson, MS instead.
I-269 will connect to I-55 to Jackson.
Quote from: Revive 755 on July 08, 2012, 01:47:32 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 06, 2012, 10:55:49 PM
Control cit[y] of Evansville, IN ...?
I'd think Nashville would be a better control city for NB I-269 south of I-40, with Evansville appearing at I-40.  Or at least sign Nashville/Evansville.

Birmingham (Atlanta?) would be a good choice for the segments approaching I-22, which is scheduled to be completed in October, 2014. So, similar notion for Birmingham/Jackson as Revive 755 suggests for Nashville/Evansville.

...And will Mississippi's section of I-269 have Tunica as a control city (gambling $$$ from tourists)?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: golden eagle on July 08, 2012, 03:26:58 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 08, 2012, 02:29:39 PM
Birmingham (Atlanta?) would be a good choice for the segments approaching I-22, which is scheduled to be completed in October, 2014. So, similar notion for Birmingham/Jackson as Revive 755 suggests for Nashville/Evansville.

Birmingham is already signed for on US 78 in Memphis and Tupelo, so I would expect it to be the same once it becomes I-22.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on July 08, 2012, 03:44:32 PM
Quote from: bugo on July 07, 2012, 11:26:02 PM
It's 2012 and they're still building cloverleafs. 



Anyway, nothing wrong with a cloverleaf when traffic volumes don't overload it. North Carolina just built one at I-74 and I-95. And when traffic does get heavier, you can build flyovers.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: tdindy88 on July 08, 2012, 09:51:01 PM
As a Hoosier, there is nothing wrong with the Evansville usage as a control city, but why not Dyersburg? Isn't Clarksville a control city on I-24 out of Nashville?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: hbelkins on July 08, 2012, 10:11:43 PM
Quote from: bugo on July 07, 2012, 11:26:02 PM
It's 2012 and they're still building cloverleafs.

Nothing wrong with a cloverleaf with C/D lanes. Probably cheaper than a stack with a lot of flyovers, since only two structures would be needed.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: golden eagle on July 08, 2012, 10:13:24 PM
Yes, Clarksville is a control city from Nashville.

As far as using Dyersburg as a control city, if 69 duplexes with US 51, I could see it being a control city from Memphis. However, my guess is that Evansville or Indianapolis could end up being the control city. But, would Kentucky and Indiana's DOTs sign Dyersburg? I bet they'd go with Memphis.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: tdindy88 on July 09, 2012, 04:47:38 PM
Indiana would likely sign it as Memphis, from Evansville on southward. I suppose another question, probably more appropriate for the I-69 in KY page, would be what controls Kentucky would use. Would they use Memphis, Dyersburg, or keep the current controls on the parkways (Hopkinsville, Paducah, Elizabethtown, Fulton?)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: RoadWarrior56 on July 09, 2012, 08:51:01 PM
I would imagine that in the long run Memphis and Evansville would be control cities in Kentucky at junctions at other interstates, with more local ones such as Paducah, Henderson, Madisonville, etc used where appropriate, on mileage signs, etc. and some trail blazers.  I see no reason to use Dyersburg as a long distance control city (Dyersburg is not that large, I-155 being the only possible reason to use it).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on July 26, 2012, 04:33:22 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 28, 2011, 01:04:49 PM
I emailed MDOT and asked them if they had a current estimated completion date for Mississippi's part of I-269.  It looks like 2020 is the current best guess.  MDOT's response (the District 2 Engineer):
Quote
The project is broken into 4 segments. The 4th segment is currently under construction. The remaining 3 segments are anticipated to under construction in the next 2 to 4 years . The completion will be in phases ranging between 2014 to 2020. These dates are approximate due to ROW and utility constraints on the 3 segments not under construction.
Quote from: Grzrd on March 20, 2012, 11:07:44 AM
I recently looked at MDOT's 2012-15 Draft STIP (http://sp.gomdot.com/Intermodal%20Planning/planning/Documents/2012-2015%20Draft%20STIP.pdf) and ... As far as I can tell, the only section of Mississippi's I-269 that is not scheduled to be under a paving contract by 2015 is a section from the Desoto/Marshall county line to "STA-835+00".
Quote from: Grzrd on July 06, 2012, 09:45:13 PM
... all of Tennessee's part of I-269 will be scheduled to be completed by 2015, with the short exception of the new terrain I-69/ I-269 interchange northwest of Memphis.

With Tennessee scheduled to complete their part of I-269 by 2015, and this TV video report (http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/story/19112775/i-69-to-grow-desoto-county) reporting that the entire Mississippi section should be "drivable from end to end, from 55 to the Marshall county line by 2018", it looks like essentially all of I-269 (I-55 in MS to US 51 in TN) is projected to be open to traffic by 2018:

Quote
One of the places where the impact of I-69 is going to be felt the most is in Desoto County, Mississippi.
"As far as we can tell, it should be drivable from end to end, from 55 to the Marshall county line by 2018," says Gina Tynan with the Desoto County Planning Commission. "We anticipate that it is going to be a real game changer, but it really is going to be putting a pretty sharp focus on Desoto County as a new place of development."....
269 is going to connect with Highway 78 near the Marshall County line and Redbanks Road. From there, it is going to run parallel to Byhalia Road until it connects outside of Hernando with 69. This is primarily going to be for tractor trailer traffic. It will serve as kind of an outer beltway for Memphis.

Now, if they can just figure out how to get the funding for the northern I-69/I-269 interchange ...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on August 06, 2012, 03:59:31 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 06, 2012, 09:45:13 PM
TDOT's August 3 letting (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Notices/notAug3.pdf) includes the 2.667 mile section of I-269 from the Mississippi state line to TN 385.  It will be for grading, drainage, construction of bridges, and paving with an estimated completion date of April 30, 2015 (page 4/8 of pdf):
Quote
FAYETTE AND SHELBY COUNTIES (Contract No. CNL024) Call No. 014
Project No. NH-I-269(23), 79469-3108-44, 24469-3105-44
The grading, drainage, construction of three (3) welded steel plate girder bridges, two (2) concrete Bulb-Tee beam bridges and paving on I-269 beginning at the Mississippi State line and extending to S.R. 385.
Project Length - 2.667 miles
Completion Time - On or before April 30, 2015
Quote from: codyg1985 on July 06, 2012, 10:43:30 PM
^ I am looking at the plans now, and it appears that this segment will be signed as I-269 when finished. :o

I hope that it is only a short-term delay, but the August 3 Apparent Bid Results (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Apparent_bids/Aug3.pdf) indicate that the above project was withdrawn from the letting (page 5/13 of pdf):

Quote
Call 014 Contract CNL024 Project NH-I-269(23), 79469-3108-44, 24469-3105-44 County FAYETTE & SHELBY
NEW CONSTRUCTION ON I-269 FROM MISS. STATE LINE TO SR 385 INCLUDING GRADING, DRAINAGE, 3 WELDED STEEL PLATE GIRDER BRIDGES, 2 CONCRETE BULB-TEE BEAM
BRIDGES AND PAVING
CONTRACT WITHDRAWN
Title: MDOT Advertisement For I-22/ I-269 Interchange
Post by: Grzrd on August 07, 2012, 12:30:11 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on July 07, 2012, 09:12:40 PM
I wonder where Station 835+00 is? It seems to be 15.81 miles from some point, which I assume to be the I-55/I-69/I-269 interchange .... Looking at the plan index (http://www.gomdot.com/bidsystem_data/20120724/PLANDATA/102556315.pdf) seems to indicate that it does include at least part of the interchange with US 78/I-22. Unfortunately, this interchange has been downgraded from a cloverstack to a cloverleaf with C/D roads along US 78/I-22 and I-269.

As part of the August 28 letting advertisement, MDOT has posted a two month advertisement (September 25 letting) for the I-269 segment from Station 625.00 to Station 835.00 (http://sp.gomdot.com/Contract%20Administration/BidSystems/Pages/letting%20calendar.aspx), which I interpret to essentially be the I-22/ I-269 interchange, as shown in the Plan Index (http://www.gomdot.com/bidsystem_data/20120828/PLANDATA/102556313.pdf) (including an arrow showing the location of Station 835.00):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fy08wJ.png&hash=b7035ec7d0197c76b68cd3ead56ea81863fa23a8)

Also, MDOT has issued a Press Release (http://sp.gomdot.com/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c%2D924d%2D498c%2Db14e%2Daafec6dc2864&ID=378&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273) indicating that an upcoming bond sale will finance the remainder of I-269 in Marshall County:

Quote
As part of the ongoing I-269 project, MDOT and Marshall County IDA will issue $163 million in bonds in the fall of 2012 to complete the remaining phases of I-269 within Marshall County.  Previously, in October 2007, $52 million in bonds was issued to begin work on the I-269 project.

Good progress on the Mississippi side ...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TheStranger on August 07, 2012, 12:53:59 PM
Fascinating to see a full cloverleaf in use for this planned interchange.  Will there be C/D roads on both 269 and 22?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on August 07, 2012, 01:33:03 PM
Quote from: TheStranger on August 07, 2012, 12:53:59 PM
Fascinating to see a full cloverleaf in use for this planned interchange.  Will there be C/D roads on both 269 and 22?

That is the plan. Earlier on a cloverstack was proposed, but I think it has been scaled back to speed up construction.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Alps on August 07, 2012, 07:13:44 PM
Now my question, which I don't think has an answer yet - Is this piece of I-269 what will finally get I-22 signed? (Or will the I-65 connection beat it to the punch?)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on August 07, 2012, 08:18:36 PM
Quote from: Steve on August 07, 2012, 07:13:44 PM
Now my question, which I don't think has an answer yet - Is this piece of I-269 what will finally get I-22 signed? (Or will the I-65 connection beat it to the punch?)

I'm hoping the answer is neither; since MAP-21 now allows signage of disconnected segments, all of Alabama's open segments are interstate grade, and most of Mississippi's segments are interstate grade (with the final three upgrade projects all expected to be completed by November 2013), then I hope to see applications from both ALDOT and MDOT for immediate signage in time for the November 15 AASHTO Special Committee on Route Numbering meeting.  Why wait? I-22 signage by New Year's Day!

FTR - the I-22/I-269 interchange is targeted for a June 18, 2015 completion date, roughly eight months after the targeted October 15, 2014 completion date for the I-22/ I-65 interchange:

Quote
Construction of SR 304/I-269 from Station 625+00 to Station 835+00, known as Federal Aid Project Nos. STP-0029-02(016) / 102556313 & STP-0029-03(008) / 102556314 in Desoto & Marshall Counties.
Project Completion: 06/18/2015
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Alps on August 08, 2012, 08:25:55 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 07, 2012, 08:18:36 PM
Quote from: Steve on August 07, 2012, 07:13:44 PM
Now my question, which I don't think has an answer yet - Is this piece of I-269 what will finally get I-22 signed? (Or will the I-65 connection beat it to the punch?)

I'm hoping the answer is neither; since MAP-21 now allows signage of disconnected segments, all of Alabama's open segments are interstate grade, and most of Mississippi's segments are interstate grade (with the final three upgrade projects all expected to be completed by November 2013), then I hope to see applications from both ALDOT and MDOT for immediate signage in time for the November 15 AASHTO Special Committee on Route Numbering meeting.  Why wait? I-22 signage by New Year's Day!

FTR - the I-22/I-269 interchange is targeted for a June 18, 2015 completion date, roughly eight months after the targeted October 15, 2014 completion date for the I-22/ I-65 interchange:

Quote
Construction of SR 304/I-269 from Station 625+00 to Station 835+00, known as Federal Aid Project Nos. STP-0029-02(016) / 102556313 & STP-0029-03(008) / 102556314 in Desoto & Marshall Counties.
Project Completion: 06/18/2015
Here, take one of my Internets. You deserve it. Thank you.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on August 21, 2012, 06:57:49 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 06, 2012, 03:59:31 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 06, 2012, 09:45:13 PM
TDOT's August 3 letting (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Notices/notAug3.pdf) includes the 2.667 mile section of I-269 from the Mississippi state line to TN 385.  It will be for grading, drainage, construction of bridges, and paving with an estimated completion date of April 30, 2015 (page 4/8 of pdf)
I hope that it is only a short-term delay, but the August 3 Apparent Bid Results (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Apparent_bids/Aug3.pdf) indicate that the above project was withdrawn from the letting (page 5/13 of pdf)

Good news from TDOT is that the I-269 project to the Mississippi state line is now advertised in the September 14 letting (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Notices/notSept14.pdf) (page 4/10 of pdf):

Quote
FAYETTE AND SHELBY COUNTIES (Contract No. CNL024) Call No. 014
Project No. NH-I-269(23), 79469-3108-44, 24469-3105-44
The grading, drainage, construction of three (3) welded steel plate girder bridges, two (2) concrete Bulb-Tee beam bridges and
paving on I-269 beginning at the Mississippi State line and extending to S.R. 385.
Project Length - 2.667 miles
Completion Time - On or before April 30, 2015
Plans Cost - $200.00 Cross-Section Cost - $100.00
The DBE goal for this contract is 8.5%.

Quote from: Grzrd on July 06, 2012, 09:45:13 PM
TDOT's August 3 letting (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Notices/notAug3.pdf) .... the paving project for the final 8.294 miles of the TN 385 section of I-269 will be let on August 3 (page 7/8 of pdf)

Also, TDOT recently awarded the paving project for the final 8.294 miles of the TN 385 section of I-269 (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Awards/Aug3_awards.pdf) (page 12/13 of pdf):

Quote
Call 034 Contract CNL263 Project NH‐I‐269(19), 79469‐3106‐44, 24269‐3104‐44 County SHELBY & FAYETTE
THE PAVING ON I‐269(SR 385) FROM SR 57(POPLAR AVE) TO SR 193 (MACON RD)
Contractor LEHMAN‐ROBERTS COMPANY
Total $21,620,390.89
Bid Estimate $21,709,418.10

Quote from: codyg1985 on July 07, 2012, 09:12:40 PM
Looks like MDOT has "construction" for the section from Station 835+00 to Mason Rd up for the July 24th letting (http://sp.gomdot.com/Contract%20Administration/BidSystems/Pages/letting%20calendar.aspx).

In addition, on August 14, MDOT awarded the above contract (http://www.gomdot.com/bidsystem_data/20120724/LETDOCS/20120724BidAwards.pdf), MDOT's third I-269 project (page 1/2 of pdf):

Quote
AWARDED SUBJECT TO CONCURRENCE BY THE FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
STP-0029-03(013) / 102556315
MARSHALL COUNTY - Construction of SR 304/I-269 from Station 835+00 to Mason Road
EUTAW CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.
PO BOX 36
ABERDEEN, MS 39730
$31,999,237.02

Quote from: Grzrd on June 19, 2012, 04:56:47 PM
MDOT awarded a contract for the second MS I-269 project ... subject to FHWA concurrence (http://www.gomdot.com/bidsystem_data/20120522/LETDOCS/20120522BidAwards.pdf) on June 12 (page 2/3 of pdf):
Quote
STP-0029-02(014) / 102556312
DESOTO COUNTY - Grade & Bridge, 4-lanes on SR 304/I-269 from SR 305 to Coldwater River Bridge
JOE MCGEE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.
6609 STEVE LEE DRIVE LAKE, MS 39092
$39,998,460.65

Finally, to whet the appetite for future roadgeeking opportunities afforded by the above projects, this TV video report (http://www.wmctv.com/Global/story.asp?S=19209507) has some footage of construction equipment pushing some dirt around on the second MDOT I-269 project, in Desoto County. Can Memphis Road Meet II be too far off in the future?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NYYPhil777 on August 21, 2012, 10:07:31 PM
Something about I-22- for some time from 2010 to now US 78 was labeled as I-22 by Google Maps, now Google Maps left it as US 78 again.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rickmastfan67 on August 22, 2012, 07:41:37 AM
Quote from: NYYPhil777 on August 21, 2012, 10:07:31 PM
Something about I-22- for some time from 2010 to now US 78 was labeled as I-22 by Google Maps, now Google Maps left it as US 78 again.

Yeah, Google loves to post "Future" interstates, especially if there is "Future Corridor" signage along said route.  However, can't explain why the I-22 shields are gone now.  Maybe somebody somehow sneaked an edit in that amazingly got past the reviewers there at Google to strip the I-22 shields till it's posted as an official Interstate.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on September 17, 2012, 05:22:18 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 21, 2012, 06:57:49 PM
Good news from TDOT is that the I-269 project to the Mississippi state line is now advertised in the September 14 letting (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Notices/notSept14.pdf) (page 4/10 of pdf)

TDOT has awarded the I-269 project from TN 385 to the Mississippi state line (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Awards/Sept14_awards.pdf) (page 5/14 of pdf):

Quote
Call 014
Contract CNL024
Project NH-I-269(23), 79469-3108-44, 24469-3105-44
County FAYETTE & SHELBY
NEW CONSTRUCTION ON I-269 FROM MISS. STATE LINE TO SR-385 INCLUDING GRADING, DRAINAGE, 3 WELDED STEEL PLATE GIRDER BRIDGES, 2 CONCRETE BULB-TEE BEAM BRIDGES AND PAVING
Contractor Total Bid: DEMENT CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, LLC $41,093,395.62
Estimate: $40,458,437.50

Now the long wait begins for the next I-69 Corridor project in Tennessee ...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ARMOURERERIC on September 17, 2012, 10:50:40 PM
Since the 22/269 interchange is a cloverleaf, do they still plan to run 22 straight ahead along 78 into Memphis or will they be taking 22 through the cloverleaf then along 269 west, and if so, will the 22W/269W loop ramp be 2 lanes?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NYYPhil777 on September 18, 2012, 03:38:28 AM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on September 17, 2012, 10:50:40 PM
Since the 22/269 interchange is a cloverleaf, do they still plan to run 22 straight ahead along 78 into Memphis or will they be taking 22 through the cloverleaf then along 269 west, and if so, will the 22W/269W loop ramp be 2 lanes?
Odds are I-22 will run into Memphis and its west terminus will be at I-240. I say the odds of these two situations are 60-40. (60 for my hypothesis, 40 for yours.)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on September 18, 2012, 03:53:19 AM
If I were god Henry I'd take I-22 north on I-269 and west on SR 385 to I-240. And then extend it to Yellowstone.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on September 18, 2012, 07:12:15 AM
Quote from: NYYPhil777 on September 18, 2012, 03:38:28 AM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on September 17, 2012, 10:50:40 PM
Since the 22/269 interchange is a cloverleaf, do they still plan to run 22 straight ahead along 78 into Memphis or will they be taking 22 through the cloverleaf then along 269 west, and if so, will the 22W/269W loop ramp be 2 lanes?
Odds are I-22 will run into Memphis and its west terminus will be at I-240. I say the odds of these two situations are 60-40. (60 for my hypothesis, 40 for yours.)

I disagree, at least for the short term. I think for a while I-22 will either end at the MS/TN state line, at I-55, or at I-269. There are plans to upgrade some of the intersections to interchanges along Lamar Avenue, but I don't know if the plan is to fully limit access along the corridor or only upgrade major intersections while allowing direct access to Lamar.

I hope you are right, though.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on October 09, 2012, 08:17:06 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on March 15, 2011, 02:36:29 PM
first letting
Quote
Construction of I-269/SR304 from South of SR 302 to the Tennessee State Line
Quote from: Grzrd on June 19, 2012, 04:56:47 PM
MDOT awarded a contract for the second MS I-269 project (referenced in above quote) subject to FHWA concurrence (http://www.gomdot.com/bidsystem_data/20120522/LETDOCS/20120522BidAwards.pdf) on June 12 (page 2/3 of pdf):
Quote
DESOTO COUNTY - Grade & Bridge, 4-lanes on SR 304/I-269 from SR 305 to Coldwater River Bridge
Quote from: Grzrd on August 21, 2012, 06:57:49 PM
MDOT awarded ... (http://www.gomdot.com/bidsystem_data/20120724/LETDOCS/20120724BidAwards.pdf), MDOT's third I-269 project (page 1/2 of pdf):
Quote
MARSHALL COUNTY - Construction of SR 304/I-269 from Station 835+00 to Mason Road

On October 9, Mississippi DOT awarded its fourth I-269 contract (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20120925/LETDOCS/20120925BidAwards.pdf), which includes the Future I-269/ Future I-22 interchange (page 2/4 of pdf):

Quote
AWARDED SUBJECT TO CONCURRENCE BY THE FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
STP-0029-02(016) / 102556313 & STP-0029-03(008) / 102556314

MARSHALL & DESOTO - Construction of SR 304/I-269 from Station 625+00 to Station 835+00
HILL BROTHERS CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.
20831 HIGHWAY 15
FALKNER, MS 38629
$38,952,920.35

The winning bid came in almost 19% below MDOT's estimate (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20120925/LETDOCS/20120925CheckedBidResults.pdf) (page 1/4 of pdf):

Quote
STATE ESTIMATE
$48,048,304.94
UNDER STATE ESTIMATE
18.93%

Combined with the below two TDOT projects, there are now six current I-269 projects with awarded contracts and/or under construction:

Quote from: Grzrd on August 21, 2012, 06:57:49 PM
TDOT recently awarded the paving project for the final 8.294 miles of the TN 385 section of I-269 (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Awards/Aug3_awards.pdf) (page 12/13 of pdf):
Quote
THE PAVING ON I‐269(SR 385) FROM SR 57(POPLAR AVE) TO SR 193 (MACON RD)
Quote from: Grzrd on September 17, 2012, 05:22:18 PM
TDOT has awarded the I-269 project from TN 385 to the Mississippi state line (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/construction/2012/Awards/Sept14_awards.pdf) (page 5/14 of pdf):
Quote
NEW CONSTRUCTION ON I-269 FROM MISS. STATE LINE TO SR-385
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on November 10, 2012, 09:17:15 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 26, 2012, 04:33:22 PM
With Tennessee scheduled to complete their part of I-269 by 2015, and this TV video report (http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/story/19112775/i-69-to-grow-desoto-county) reporting that the entire Mississippi section should be "drivable from end to end, from 55 to the Marshall county line by 2018", it looks like essentially all of I-269 (I-55 in MS to US 51 in TN) is projected to be open to traffic by 2018

This Memphis Daily News article about Norfolk Southern's new intermodal facility in metro Memphis (http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2012/nov/9/norfolk-cbre-executives-tout-intermodal-yard/) reports that "by 2016, the Interstate 69/269 beltway should be completed":

Quote
Infrastructure improvements will offer additional advantages.
"The road connections are really improving, which is so crucial to intermodal,"  Cothran said. "We can take care of our tracks, but once you get off our property, you need to be able to get your cargo exactly where it needs to be able to go within the larger region."
To date, infrastructure enhancements have included grade improvements on Tenn. 57 and U.S. 72 and an extension of Tenn. 385 south from 57. By 2016, the Interstate 69/269 beltway should be completed, as should the Piperton Hills connector roads linking U.S. 72 with state highways 57, 196 and 302.

Completion of I-269 by 2016 seems optimistic, but the report does reflect the commitment to complete it sooner rather than later.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on November 25, 2012, 04:39:11 PM
^ Included as part of the presentation materials for the Desoto County, Mississippi I-269 Corridor Study is a map showing MDOT's I-269 construction schedule (http://desotodiscovery.com/mm_uploads/I-269_Construction_Schedule_final-8-6-12.pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fv1qTY.jpg&hash=35e56152a2b88e19ce22907d5175826114e4b3b8)

The section from the Tennessee state line to MS 302 is scheduled to be open to traffic in October 2015.
I-55 to I-22 is scheduled to be open to traffic in January 2018.
All of Mississippi I-269 is scheduled to be open to traffic by October 2018.

However, the section including the I-55 interchange does not appear on MDOT's November 2012 letting (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Contract%20Administration/BidSystems/Pages/letting%20calendar.aspx).

edit

MDOT also has an "I-55/69" shield on I-55 south of the I-55/I-69/I-269 interchange. :hmmm:
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: txstateends on December 01, 2012, 01:37:54 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 17, 2012, 05:22:18 PM
Now the long wait begins for the next I-69 Corridor project in Tennessee ...
Seems strange that TN breaks it's neck to get going on building I-269 but can't be bothered with any of I-69 between Memphis and the KY border.  I know there's that funding thing, but....oh well
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on December 01, 2012, 01:39:49 PM
Quote from: txstateends on December 01, 2012, 01:37:54 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 17, 2012, 05:22:18 PM
Now the long wait begins for the next I-69 Corridor project in Tennessee ...
Seems strange that TN breaks it's neck to get going on building I-269 but can't be bothered with any of I-69 between Memphis and the KY border.  I know there's that funding thing, but....oh well

A lot of it was planned to be built as TN 385 long before I-269 came to fruition. I would even go out on a limb and say that most of the funding to complete TN 385 was already in place as well.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 17, 2012, 04:09:21 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on December 01, 2012, 01:39:49 PM
Quote from: txstateends on December 01, 2012, 01:37:54 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 17, 2012, 05:22:18 PM
Now the long wait begins for the next I-69 Corridor project in Tennessee ...
Seems strange that TN breaks it's neck to get going on building I-269 but can't be bothered with any of I-69 between Memphis and the KY border.  I know there's that funding thing, but....oh well

A lot of it was planned to be built as TN 385 long before I-269 came to fruition. I would even go out on a limb and say that most of the funding to complete TN 385 was already in place as well.

As Cody says, TN 385's components has been on the books for decades... at least since the early 70s in various forms, along with all sorts of projects that never came to fruition (like the Loosahatchie Parkway) or only came about in modified form (Walnut Grove and Kirby through Shelby Farms); the Bill Morris Parkway, for example was originally planned to replace Winchester from Germantown Road to Poplar Avenue at Houston Levee, with Winchester being rebuilt as Texas-style frontage roads.  I'm not sure how the current alignment came about exactly, but that's when Nonconnah (Bill Morris), Millington-Arlington (Paul Barrett), and Collierville-Arlington (which now also has an honorary name, which I forget) became parts of 385.

By comparison a Memphis-Millington expressway was never really seriously planned.  Development never really went in that direction, even though infrastructure was put in place for it (routes like North Watkins/TN 388, Singleton Parkway/TN 204, New Brownsville Road, and New Allen Road), and the west TN politicos who had power to divert resources to one (like longtime Lt. Gov Wilder and the House speaker whose name I forget, who both represented NW TN) were more interested in better routes from their region to Nashville than getting from Union City and Dyersburg to Memphis, hence the ridiculously overbuilt TN 22 freeway, US 412 from Jackson to Dyersburg, etc.  The parts of US 51 freeway north of Dyersburg also fit in this mold.

And now those politicians are gone, and the ones that replaced them aren't particularly interested in diverting resources to an area they think got disproportionate attention from the 60s through 80s, hence the lack of I-69 progress.  I think it'll happen eventually as Covington becomes more of a Memphis suburb, or if Millington ever attracts some real industry, but it'll be a while before the political pressure is there again.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on December 18, 2012, 10:50:04 AM
This Memphis Daily News article (http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2012/dec/17/metro-connection/) provides updates on Tennessee's current I-269 projects (and has a photo of some dirt work between Tenn. 385 and US 72):

Quote
Preliminary dirt work is under way to connect Tenn. 385 near the Collierville/Fayette County border to the Mississippi state line, and an eight-mile portion spanning from Poplar Avenue north to Macon Road will be complete by the end of next year. ....
Interstate 69 will eventually run from Mexico to Canada, and about 40 percent of all of the manufacturing in the U.S. takes place in its corridor. I-269 will loop east around metropolitan Memphis from Millington to I-55 in Mississippi, with roughly 35 miles in Tennessee and 25 miles in Mississippi ....
Work began in December 2009 on the new eight-mile stretch of Tenn. 385 running from Poplar to Macon and should be completed by November ....
Earlier this year, the Tennessee Department of Transportation put out a $41 million contract to Dement Construction for work on a new two-mile section of I-269 running from the Mississippi state line to Tenn. 385. Site work is under way just east of U.S. 72 in Collierville between Shelby Drive and Keough Road, hooking up with nearby 385 just before it ends in Piperton.
"Work should really begin to crank up next spring, and the estimated completion date is June of 2015,"  Lawrence said ....

Quote from: Grzrd on November 25, 2012, 04:39:11 PM
The section from the Tennessee state line to MS 302 is scheduled to be open to traffic in October 2015.

It looks like TDOT and MDOT are coordinating their respective state line projects and it may be possible to cross the state line on I-269 in a little under three years.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on December 20, 2012, 12:51:32 PM
Mississippi DOT has posted District Two Updates (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c%2D924d%2D498c%2Db14e%2Daafec6dc2864&ID=686&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273) on its website, which includes three I-269 projects:

Quote
Interstate 269 in Desoto County 
... This project is approximately 1.9 mile in length, from just east of State Route 305 to 1700 feet east of the Coldwater River ... The paving work will be let under a separate contract in the future. The contractor is currently constructing the roadway embankment from the BOP to the west end of the Coldwater River Bridge. Also under construction are the Bridges substructures for Bridges "A"  underpass of local road and Bridges "B"  over the Coldwater River ... The project is approximately 16% complete with approximately 13% of the contract time elapsed and an expected completion date of September 2014.

Interstate 269 in Marshall County 
... This project is approximately 3.1 miles long and goes from just south of State Route 302 to the Tennessee State Line ... The paving work will be let under a separate contract in the future.  The contractor currently has three (3) bridge crews on site working on the Bridges spanning State Route 302, Wingo Road, and the Nonconnah Creek bridges.  Earthwork operations are complete, and those forces are attempting to maintain the installed BMP's.  The project is approximately 71% complete with an expected completion date of October 2013 ... 

Interstate 269 in Marshall County 
... This project is approximately 0.8 miles long and goes from just East of Mason Road to Station 835+00 near the intersection of U.S. Highway 78 and Interstate 269 ... The paving work will be let under a separate contract in the future.  The contractor is currently driving piles, installing pipes, installing Erosion Control BMP's, and executing earthwork operations.  The project is approximately 8% complete with an expected completion date of October 2014 ...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on January 02, 2013, 01:57:19 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 09, 2012, 08:17:06 PM
On October 9, Mississippi DOT awarded its fourth I-269 contract (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20120925/LETDOCS/20120925BidAwards.pdf), which includes the Future I-269/ Future I-22 interchange (page 2/4 of pdf)
Quote from: Grzrd on November 25, 2012, 04:39:11 PM
^ Included as part of the presentation materials for the Desoto County, Mississippi I-269 Corridor Study is a map showing MDOT's I-269 construction schedule (http://desotodiscovery.com/mm_uploads/I-269_Construction_Schedule_final-8-6-12.pdf) ...
All of Mississippi I-269 is scheduled to be open to traffic by October 2018.
However, the section including the I-55 interchange does not appear on MDOT's November 2012 letting (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Contract%20Administration/BidSystems/Pages/letting%20calendar.aspx).

Mississippi DOT's ("MDOT's") fifth I-269 project, which includes the I-55 interchange, is advertised in the January 22 letting (http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=January%2022,%202013):

Quote
Grade, Drain, & Bridge on SR 304/I-269 from I-55 to STA. 240+00, known as Federal Aid Project No. STP-0029-02(013) / 102556310 in DeSoto County.
Call 04 PDF
Project Completion: 05/29/2015
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on January 22, 2013, 01:58:56 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 02, 2013, 01:57:19 PM
Mississippi DOT's ("MDOT's") fifth I-269 project, which includes the I-55 interchange, is advertised in the January 22 letting (http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=January%2022,%202013)

The bid opening for the above project has been postponed until February 26 (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20130122/LETDOCS/20130122AsReadBidResults.pdf):

Quote
4 STP-0029-02(013) / 102556310 Desoto
Grade, Drain, & Bridge on SR 304/I-269 from I-55 to STA. 240+00
BID OPENING POSTPONED UNTIL FEBRUARY 26, 2013




There may also be a last-second effort to save a 175 year old tree (http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2013/01/22/news/local/doc50fdd7a57de44155093639.txt):

Quote
The tree, roughly just a few yards from the planned path of Interstate 69/269, will likely be felled to make way for the nation's newest super highway ....
Boyce said he wants to make Northern District Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert aware of the tree's imminent demise.
"This is the first time I've heard of this," Tagert said from Jackson on Monday. "It has not come across my desk."
Tagert promised to look into the situation and get back to a reporter on Tuesday. He said that MDOT consults with the Mississippi Department of Archives and History on the existence of local landmarks in conjunction with road and highway projects, and tries to preserve such landmarks when possible.
"We go through extensive review and we spend a great deal of time and money on trying to avoid situations like this," Tagert said ....
Boyce said some local crews performing contract timber work for MDOT attempted to spare the tree.
"The man cutting all this timber around here said he wouldn't cut it," Boyce said.
Dr. Joy Fox Anderson, noted horticulturalist and DeSoto County Coordinator for the Mississippi State Agricultural Extension Office, .... said the tree is in danger even if it's not cut down.
"If they don't do anything to protect the root system from getting compacted, it will be damaged. Any kind of clearing around it will damage it."

edit

The tree fought MDOT and lost. This TV video report (http://www.14news.com/story/20663510/family-tree-torn-down-for-miss-interstate) has both pre-felling and post-felling footage of the tree.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on January 25, 2013, 08:22:10 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 23, 2013, 10:08:58 PM
This TV video report, North Mississippi's First Highway Message Signs (http://wreg.com/2013/01/23/north-mississippis-first-highway-message-signs/) contains some footage of US 78/Future I-22 near Byhalia, Marshall County, MS.
Quote from: codyg1985 on January 24, 2013, 03:21:48 AM
I can't remember if I-55 in DeSoto County has any message signs. If not, that's interesting that I-22 is getting them first. It makes sense where they are putting the sign, anyway.
(above two quotes from Interstate 22 (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=724.msg198954#msg198954) thread)

Byhalia makes sense for the location of the sign because in the relatively near future the sign will also provide information about the conditions on I-269. This TV video report (http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/story/20700966/mdot-making-strides-on-i-69-i-269-corridor), in addition to a report on how I-269 may impact Byhalia, contains some footage of I-269 construction, presumably near the Future I-269/Future I-22 interchange.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on January 25, 2013, 08:49:18 AM
^ Look like that construction shown was along MS 178, which is near the future I-22/I-269 interchange.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on January 27, 2013, 09:58:05 AM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on April 26, 2012, 08:37:50 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 26, 2012, 02:27:17 PM
Although it's not official until Tennessee Governor Haslam signs the bill, it looks like this weekend's Memphis meet attendees will be looking at construction of a segment of TN 385/I-269 that will also be known as the Governor Winfield Dunn Parkway (http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/apr/26/portion-tennessee-385-will-be-named-governor-winfi/?CID=happeningnow):
Quote
Tennessee 385 -- the eastern semi-circle roadway linking the Memphis suburbs -- is about to have a third name on it: the Governor Winfield Dunn Parkway.
The state Senate gave final legislative approval today to a bill that designates the stretch of Tennessee 385 between U.S. 70 near Arlington and U.S. 72 at Collierville as the Governor Winfield Dunn Parkway in honor of the former Memphis dentist who in 1970 was elected Tennessee's first Republican governor in 50 years ... Part of the section of Tennessee 385 named after Dunn is still under construction, but the stretch between I-40 and Macon Road is already open to traffic.
Make sure they all have toothbrushes.

This TV video report (http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/story/20702936/highway-385s-final-stretch) focuses on the anticipated impact of completion of the Winfield Dunn Parkway (and thus all of TN 385) in November:

Quote
"So you'll be able to come from Millington all the way around 385 and back to 240," said TDOT's Jason Baker.
Highway 385 has been completed in three phases. The first phase started in the early 1980s and wrapped up in 1998. Known as the Paul W. Barret Parkway, it linked U.S. Highway 51 to U.S. 70-79 east of Millington. Next came the Bill Morris Parkway. Construction started in 1990 and wrapped up in 2007, connecting I-240 to State Road 57 east of Collierville.
The third phase, which will be completed in 10 months, is the Winfield Dunn Parkway which connects U.S. 70 to the Bill Morris Parkway ....
But all of this growth leading away from Memphis doesn't sit well with everyone.
"Our primary concerns with project 269, is it's an extraordinary amount of money that's not going to serve the entire community," said Sarah Norstok of Livable Memphis.
Norstok believes the I-269 project will be nothing but a drain on the city of Memphis from its livability and its economy.
"The main reason why is because our region as a population is not growing," she said. "So when we build things like this and we talk about development, we're not growing the pie. We are just moving the pieces around within the same number of limited resources. So while it's great for some people, some areas stand to gain a lot from this development, it's just leaving behind another neighborhood that's already existed."

Although a cap on the available amount of pie suggests a correlation, the report does not directly address whether frequent brushing prevents potholes.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on February 11, 2013, 06:28:37 PM
I was in Memphis today, so I decided to check out some of the I-269 construction. It looks like very little has happened along US 78/I-22 at its interchange with I-269, but construction signs are up. It should be noted that dynamic message signs have been placed on both EB US 78 west of the I-269 interchange and on WB US 78 east of both the I-269 interchange and the Byhalia Rd/MS 309 interchange. Also, traffic cameras have been installed along US 78 at the Red Banks Road exit (Exit 10) and the Byhalia Rd exit (Exit 14). There are also cameras at one of the overpasses between those two exits, but I can't remember which one.  MDOT is really putting the ITS infrastructure in place for the I-22/I-269 interchange, at least.

Construction is more underway along MS 178 which is just north of US 78. Bridge piers are under construction to the south. It appears that MS 178 will either be temporarily or permanently relocated south of its original alignment to pass underneath the bridges under construction. I believe the contract for this portion of the construction is separate from the contract that deals with the I-22/US 78 interchange itself.

The interchange with MS 302 looks to be coming along very nicely. Bridge beams are in place for the mainline I-269 bridges over MS 302. The deck is about to be poured for the northbound I-269 lanes.  Frontage roads are under construction along MS 302 east of the I-269 interchange which will serve as a relocated Mt Carmel Rd to place its intersection with MS 302 well east of the I-269 interchange.

North of MS 302, an overpass is under construction for Wingo Road to pass over I-269. The bridge beams are in place. I would guesstimate that this project for grading, drainage, and bridges between MS 302 and the TN State Line is about 65-70% complete. Most of the remaining work appears to be for the bridges and putting down asphalt for the relocated roads.

Construction signs are in place along US 72 and TN 385/Bill Morris Pkwy at their respective interchanges with I-269, but not much has happened along here except for the topsoil being removed from the site.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SSOWorld on February 11, 2013, 07:25:22 PM
Note to self - don't drive by... yet.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on March 12, 2013, 10:31:49 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 22, 2013, 01:58:56 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 02, 2013, 01:57:19 PM
Mississippi DOT's ("MDOT's") fifth I-269 project, which includes the I-55 interchange, is advertised in the January 22 letting (http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=January%2022,%202013)
The bid opening for the above project has been postponed until February 26 (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20130122/LETDOCS/20130122AsReadBidResults.pdf)

On March 12, MDOT awarded its fifth I-269 project (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20130226/LETDOCS/20130226BidAwards.pdf), which will connect to the current I-55/I-69 interchange (http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Memphis,+TN&hl=en&ll=34.862271,-89.992189&spn=0.054581,0.076818&sll=32.678125,-83.178297&sspn=7.163737,9.832764&oq=memphis+tn&t=k&hnear=Memphis,+Shelby,+Tennessee&z=14):

Quote
STP-0029-02(013) / 102556310
DESOTO COUNTY - Grade, Drain, & Bridge on SR 304/I-269 from I-55 to STA. 240+00
EUTAW CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.
PO BOX 36
ABERDEEN, MS 39730
$29,609,997.89

In looking at MDOT's I-269 construction schedule map posted upthread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=1329.msg186695#msg186695), it looks like only two more sections need to have their initial lettings:
STA 240+00 to SR 305, and East of Mason Road to SR 302.*

Quote from: Grzrd on October 09, 2012, 08:17:06 PM
On October 9, Mississippi DOT awarded its fourth I-269 contract (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20120925/LETDOCS/20120925BidAwards.pdf), which includes the Future I-269/ Future I-22 interchange (page 2/4 of pdf):
Quote
AWARDED SUBJECT TO CONCURRENCE BY THE FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
STP-0029-02(016) / 102556313 & STP-0029-03(008) / 102556314

MARSHALL & DESOTO - Construction of SR 304/I-269 from Station 625+00 to Station 835+00

* I believe MDOT combined the STA 625+00 to Marshall CL and DeSoto CL to STA 835+00 projects into one project.




This article (http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2013/mar/05/desoto-team-hopes-to-score-federal-funds-help/) demonstrates the rural quality of the landscape surrounding I-269 in DeSoto County because the five roads that will have interchanges with I-269 in that county are currently classified as rural, and thus currently ineligible for MPO federal funding for improvements related to the interchanges:

Quote
A team of city and county officials from DeSoto County hopes a smooth-running and fact-loaded briefing will get funds flowing for roads and clear up ozone issues as they roll into Washington for the annual "Blue Ribbon"  presentation of project priorities ....
Here's the Trade Corridor issue that Supervisor Caldwell will address: Each of the five major roads planned as interchanges with I-269 – Getwell Road, Laughter Road, Craft Road, Miss. 305 and Red Banks Road – are expected to bear increased traffic volume, indicating the need for major improvements.
However, the roads are still designated as rural rather than urban roads, and thus are ineligible for federal funding through the Memphis Metropolitan Planning Organization; they are in the MPO study area but not the census-designated urbanized area. DeSoto officials want the roads designated as urban arterial or urban collector roads to receive MPO funding: "I feel we have all the information and we'll make a good case,"  said Caldwell.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: amroad17 on March 12, 2013, 11:02:55 PM
Quote from: NE2 on September 18, 2012, 03:53:19 AM
If I were god Henry I'd take I-22 north on I-269 and west on SR 385 to I-240. And then extend it to Yellowstone.
This is probably what should happen as there isn't much room along Lamar from the state line to I-240.  Except for the extension to Yellowstone. :-D  Either way, among the proposals of I-22 going into Memphis instead of ending at I-55 in MS, I-22 will end at I-240.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on April 01, 2013, 05:55:52 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on March 12, 2013, 10:31:49 PM
In looking at MDOT's I-269 construction schedule map posted upthread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=1329.msg186695#msg186695), it looks like only two more sections need to have their initial lettings:
STA 240+00 to SR 305, and East of Mason Road to SR 302

One on deck; one to go. The STA 240.00 to SR 305 project is advertised in the April 23 lettings (http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=April%2023,%202013):

Quote
SR 304 Relocation/I-269 from STA. 240+00 (east of Malone Road) to Station 525+00 (east of SR 305), known as Federal Aid Project No. STP-0029-02(015) / 102556311 in Desoto County.

This is the final Desoto County project to have an advertisement for its initial letting.
Title: I-269 Completion By 2017?
Post by: Grzrd on April 18, 2013, 04:57:28 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 25, 2012, 04:39:11 PM
Included as part of the presentation materials for the Desoto County, Mississippi I-269 Corridor Study is a map showing MDOT's I-269 construction schedule (http://desotodiscovery.com/mm_uploads/I-269_Construction_Schedule_final-8-6-12.pdf) ....
The section from the Tennessee state line to MS 302 is scheduled to be open to traffic in October 2015.
I-55 to I-22 is scheduled to be open to traffic in January 2018.
All of Mississippi I-269 is scheduled to be open to traffic by October 2018.

I-269 completion by 2017 (http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2013/04/18/news/doc516f3dfb9b735440522629.txt) is the headline, but the article reports that completion will occur "by" the 2017-18 fiscal year, which I assume could mean either 2017 or 2018:

Quote
During an address to the DeSoto County Economic Development Council Infrastructure Committee, Northern District Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert called the I-269 project "the crown jewel" among transportation projects in the state of Mississippi.
For the first time officially, Tagert, who is transportation commissioner over a 33-county region, went on record to state the long anticipated project should be completed by the 2017-18 fiscal year.

The article also has different relative completion dates for the various sections than the dates on the above-quoted MDOT map:

Quote
Tagert disclosed that Sections of I-269 from Hwy. 302 to the Tennessee line and U.S. Hwy. 78 to the Tennessee line will likely open before other sections.

At any rate it still looks like full speed ahead for I-269!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on May 14, 2013, 12:16:33 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 01, 2013, 05:55:52 PM
One on deck; one to go. The STA 240.00 to SR 305 project is advertised in the April 23 lettings (http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=April%2023,%202013)

One on deck awarded on May 14 (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20130423/LETDOCS/20130423BidAwards.pdf); one last MS I-269 segment to go! (page 3/4 of pdf):

Quote
STP-0029-02(015) / 102556311
DESOTO COUNTY - SR 304 Relocation/I-269 from STA. 240+00 (east of Malone Road) to Station 525+00 (east of SR 305)
TANNER CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.
PO BOX 460
ELLISVILLE, MS 39437
$56,823,653.13

The winning bid came in 7.82% under state estimate (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20130423/LETDOCS/20130423CheckedBidResults.pdf) (page 1/4 of pdf).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on May 14, 2013, 01:43:52 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 14, 2013, 12:16:33 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 01, 2013, 05:55:52 PM
One on deck; one to go. The STA 240.00 to SR 305 project is advertised in the April 23 lettings (http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=April%2023,%202013)

One on deck awarded on May 14 (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20130423/LETDOCS/20130423BidAwards.pdf); one last MS I-269 segment to go! (page 3/4 of pdf):

Quote
STP-0029-02(015) / 102556311
DESOTO COUNTY - SR 304 Relocation/I-269 from STA. 240+00 (east of Malone Road) to Station 525+00 (east of SR 305)
TANNER CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC.
PO BOX 460
ELLISVILLE, MS 39437
$56,823,653.13

The winning bid came in 7.82% under state estimate (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20130423/LETDOCS/20130423CheckedBidResults.pdf) (page 1/4 of pdf).

As exciting as this is, remember that there are still base, pave, signing, and traffic stripe contracts to be let for these segments once the grade and drain portions are completed.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ATLRedSoxFan on May 14, 2013, 05:38:57 PM
So, if I'm following and reading this correctly, I-269 will be completed before I-69 in MS and TN?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on May 14, 2013, 07:08:26 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on May 14, 2013, 05:38:57 PM
So, if I'm following and reading this correctly, I-269 will be completed before I-69 in MS and TN?
No shit. I doubt I-69 will ever be completed in MS.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ATLRedSoxFan on May 14, 2013, 08:04:16 PM
Reminds me of Indy, I-465 was completed before I-65/70 and I-69 were even built through town, and we know the story with I-74 multiplexed with I-465.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on July 25, 2013, 08:31:12 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on March 12, 2013, 10:31:49 PM
In looking at MDOT's I-269 construction schedule map posted upthread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=1329.msg186695#msg186695), it looks like only two more sections need to have their initial lettings:
STA 240+00 to SR 305, and East of Mason Road to SR 302.
Quote from: Grzrd on May 14, 2013, 12:16:33 PM
One on deck awarded on May 14 (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20130423/LETDOCS/20130423BidAwards.pdf); one last MS I-269 segment to go! (page 3/4 of pdf):
Quote
STP-0029-02(015) / 102556311
DESOTO COUNTY - SR 304 Relocation/I-269 from STA. 240+00 (east of Malone Road) to Station 525+00 (east of SR 305)

I completely missed the letting for East of Mason Road to SR 302.* This MDOT Press Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c%2D924d%2D498c%2Db14e%2Daafec6dc2864&ID=952&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273) says that it, and thus all of I-269 in Mississippi, is now under construction:

Quote
Construction recently began on the last section of Interstate 269 in Marshall County; which will add over six miles of newly constructed four-lane roadway from Shinault Road to Highway 302. With this final part of I-269 in Mississippi underway, all sections are now in the construction phase ....
The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) has contracted with James Construction Group, LLC of Baton Rouge, La., to begin work on a $68.5 million four-lane project which includes several improvements including grade, drain and bridge work, the construction of a new interchange at Highway 309 and a new river crossing at Coldwater.

edit *

MDOT awarded the contract on July 9 (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20130625/LETDOCS/20130625BidAwards.pdf):

Quote
DB/STP-0029-03(009)/102556-304000
MARSHALL COUNTY - Design and Construction of SR 304 / I-269 Project
JAMES CONSTRUCTION GROUP, LLC
11200 INDUSTRIPLEX, STE 150
BATON ROUGE, LA 70809
$68,511,578.53

This project is a "Design-Build" project and it apparently went through a different process than typical lettings.  The "Apparent Best Value" was calculated to be from James Construction Group on June 28 (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Contract%20Administration/DesignBuild/MDOT%20Project%20NoDBSTP002903009%20%20102556304000%20Propos/I-269%20Design%20Build%20Best%20Value%20Calculations.pdf).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Strider on July 25, 2013, 10:31:58 AM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on May 14, 2013, 08:04:16 PM
Reminds me of Indy, I-465 was completed before I-65/70 and I-69 were even built through town, and we know the story with I-74 multiplexed with I-465.









What story with I-74 and I-465?





Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ATLRedSoxFan on July 25, 2013, 09:57:30 PM
In Indy, I-65 and 70 weren't completed until the late 70's, whereas I-465 was built first in the 60's and tagged onto I-65, 70 as well as I-69 outbound only. IIRC, as I was only a child myself, there was a lot of controversy as to getting the expressways into the city, people didn't want neighborhoods destroyed vs. Indiana's largest city and capitol not to be served by an interstate, least as I was told by my grandad, an Indiana native. That's why "as I understand it" I-74 got tagged on to I-465 as it really had no where to go. They(I-65/70) eventually got built, but took a while compared to other similar sized cities at the time, that already had expressways/interstates.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Strider on July 26, 2013, 10:50:48 AM
so you mean that before I-65/70 went through the town, they either stopped at I-465 or go around it?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ATLRedSoxFan on July 26, 2013, 01:50:21 PM
Yeah, that's basically it and even though I-65 for the most part was complete going south toward Louisville, northbound was only complete maybe 50 miles or so north. Same holds true with I-70.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on July 30, 2013, 12:35:05 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 25, 2013, 08:31:12 AM
I completely missed the letting for East of Mason Road to SR 302.* This MDOT Press Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c%2D924d%2D498c%2Db14e%2Daafec6dc2864&ID=952&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273) says that it, and thus all of I-269 in Mississippi, is now under construction:
Quote
Construction recently began on the last section of Interstate 269 in Marshall County .... which includes ... a new river crossing at Coldwater
*This project is a "Design-Build" project and it apparently went through a different process than typical lettings.  The "Apparent Best Value" was calculated to be from James Construction Group on June 28 (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Contract%20Administration/DesignBuild/MDOT%20Project%20NoDBSTP002903009%20%20102556304000%20Propos/I-269%20Design%20Build%20Best%20Value%20Calculations.pdf).

The Legal Notice (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Contract%20Administration/DesignBuild/MDOT%20Project%20NoDBSTP002903009%20%20102556304000%20Propos/Legal%20Notice%20(I-269)%20Final.pdf) for the project indicates that MDOT provided the plans for most of this segment, except for the Coldwater River crossing:

Quote
The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) intends to solicit proposals for Design/Build services to complete the grading, drainage and bridges for the new SR 304 / I-269 from east of Mason Road at Station 878+00.00 to south of SR 302 at Station 1205+00.00. The Project will be approximately 6.2 miles of mainline construction with multiple grade separation bridges and one hydraulic bridge.
MDOT will provide complete signed and sealed construction plans for the project except the SR 304 / I-269 crossing of Coldwater River. The minimum length of the Coldwater River bridge shall be 4,052 ft. The Coldwater River crossing will require the use of design and construction methods that limit construction activity from the existing ground. The Design-Build Team may develop roadway and bridge plans in lieu of the MDOT supplied plans provided the alternatives are in accordance with the Request for Proposal (RFP). The Design-Build Team will be responsible for the development of erosion control plans in compliance with the current regulations for storm water runoff/erosion control for the entire project.

It will be interesting to see what type of bridge the Design-Build Team will design.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on August 01, 2013, 10:07:47 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 30, 2013, 12:35:05 PM
It will be interesting to see what type of bridge the Design-Build Team will design.

The Coldwater isn't really much more than a glorified creek this far upstream. My guess is it will employ offsite precast segmental construction, like the non-signature span portions of the East Bay Bridge replacement did.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on August 02, 2013, 08:25:55 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on August 01, 2013, 10:07:47 PM
The Coldwater isn't really much more than a glorified creek this far upstream.

This July 22 TV video report (http://wreg.com/2013/07/22/desoto-erects-safety-barrier-on-flooded-road/) discusses how flooding of the Coldwater River, and nearby Short Fork and Pidgeon [sic?] Roost Creeks, has led to the installation of safety gates on Holly Springs Road, which is near the I-269 Corridor:

Quote
When it rains, Short Fork and Pidgeon Roost Creeks fill up fast, along with the Coldwater River.
That can make travel along Holly Springs Road dangerous, if not deadly if you slide off the road ....
Holly Springs Road runs along the Coldwater River bottoms where at least two other creeks flow through.
For years, this has been a problem area for motorists who think they can make it across the flooded road and end up in the water.

Some motorists made it, others didn't.
"You're done for, because it's gonna be deep there and you're not gonna be able to get out,"  Lee explained.
But now, DeSoto County has put up a removable gate that lets them close the road down whenever conditions get dangerous ....
DeSoto County has set aside money to build a bridge across this dangerous stretch, but so far, can't get the state and Federal Government to contribute.
Lee hopes with I-269 coming nearby, that money might become available before somebody else ends up in the water on this dangerous road.

The video report also has footage of an interesting sign:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FcgX2J4N.jpg&hash=bb7172f8b785ef432058a0aa1db7a8537d39b50b)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on September 10, 2013, 02:03:25 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on July 06, 2012, 09:45:13 PM
the paving project for the final 8.294 miles of the TN 385 section of I-269 will be let on August 3 (page 7/8 of pdf):
Quote
SHELBY AND FAYETTE COUNTIES (Contract No. CNL263) Call No. 034
Project No. NH-I-269(19), 79469-3106-44, 24269-3104-44
The paving on I-269 (S.R. 385) beginning at S.R. 57 (Poplar Avenue) and extending to S.R. 193 (Macon Road).
Project Length - 8.294 miles
Completion Time - On or before September 30, 2013

An email update from TDOT indicates that the paving project is now scheduled to be completed November 30:

Quote
The completion for the paving on the last section between SR57 and SR193 is November 30, 2013.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on October 11, 2013, 09:54:42 PM
Google Street View has been updated along I-22/US 78 to show construction at the I-269 interchange: http://goo.gl/maps/euauE

MS 178 has also been updated around I-269 which shows more views of the bridges being constructed: http://goo.gl/maps/z9Jix
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jpi on October 16, 2013, 04:17:30 PM
I was in Memphis Monday night for The Eagles concert, while I was in the area I checked out the progress on the I-269 construction, lots of progress since I was out in the area in March,  The fly-over for north bound I-269 to west bound TN 385 is in full swing, overpasses are being built over US 72 just south of the exit and lots of gradeing is being done. The missing link under construction between TN 193 and TN 57 has fresh black top down so this may be opening by the end of the year.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on October 16, 2013, 07:25:44 PM
Quote from: jpi on October 16, 2013, 04:17:30 PM
The fly-over for north bound I-269 to west bound TN 385
Which will carry much of the I-22 traffic to/from Memphis.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jpi on October 17, 2013, 12:12:10 AM
Agreed, makes me wonder if there is an option to route I-22 on to that section of TN 385, then it would end at I-240, or extend it on to I-240 to end at I-55\ future I-69) TN 385 is pretty much up to interstate standards.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on October 17, 2013, 12:24:53 AM
Quote from: jpi on October 17, 2013, 12:12:10 AM
Agreed, makes me wonder if there is an option to route I-22 on to that section of TN 385, then it would end at I-240, or extend it on to I-240 to end at I-55\ future I-69) TN 385 is pretty much up to interstate standards.

385 is somewhat substandard - you'd probably need to widen the shoulders, and the six-lane section in particular has a couple of tight curves.  FHWA might also insist on widening the viaduct between Kirby and Riverdale, which has some serious weaving issues.  Honestly I don't see TDOT caring enough to seek the designation, especially since they could have sought funding for upgrading Lamar but haven't.

Besides, if your destination is downtown, 269 west to 55/69 north would be more direct than 269 north to 385 west to 240 west.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jpi on October 17, 2013, 01:12:02 PM
True on the downtown destination part, the shoulders are a little small, overall 385 does remind me of Vietnam Vets PKY (TN 386) on the north side of Nashville.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on October 21, 2013, 08:54:12 AM
Quote from: jpi on October 16, 2013, 04:17:30 PM
The missing link under construction between TN 193 and TN 57 has fresh black top down so this may be opening by the end of the year.

This article (http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2013/oct/18/panattonis-speculative-warehouse-underway/), primarily about a speculative warehouse building, confirms your guess:

Quote
By December, the final stretch of Tenn. 385 between Poplar Avenue and Macon Road is expected to open ...




Quote from: jpi on October 16, 2013, 04:17:30 PM
The fly-over for north bound I-269 to west bound TN 385 is in full swing, overpasses are being built over US 72 just south of the exit and lots of gradeing is being done.

The above-linked article also indicates that Mississippi and Tennessee will open the section from MS 302 (Goodman Road) to TN 385 by the end of 2014:

Quote
the first leg of Interstate 269 from Goodman Road to Tenn. 385 is expected to open by the end of 2014.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on October 22, 2013, 09:22:35 AM
This TV video report (http://wreg.com/2013/10/17/interstate-project-touted-to-lure-corporate-headquarters-here/) includes some helicopter-footage of I-269 construction:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F9B4FdBg.jpg&hash=8b21724883ba6b2cbec140ce8b25e58a04bdfcc5)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on November 14, 2013, 04:34:17 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 21, 2013, 08:54:12 AM
Quote from: jpi on October 16, 2013, 04:17:30 PM
The missing link under construction between TN 193 and TN 57 has fresh black top down so this may be opening by the end of the year.
This article (http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2013/oct/18/panattonis-speculative-warehouse-underway/), primarily about a speculative warehouse building, confirms your guess
Quote
By December, the final stretch of Tenn. 385 between Poplar Avenue and Macon Road is expected to open ...

This TV video (http://wreg.com/2013/11/12/385-completion-to-alleviated-i40-240-congestion/) reports that the ribboncutting for the TN 385/Future I-269 "missing link" will be November 22 and that it will be open to traffic on November 30:

Quote
By the end of November, the new portion of 385 connecting Millington to Collierville will be open.
TDOT is planning a ribbon cutting to celebrate the opening Friday, November 22 ....
TDOT says the entire span of 385 will not be open until November 30th.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on November 18, 2013, 02:07:10 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 14, 2013, 04:34:17 PM
This TV video (http://wreg.com/2013/11/12/385-completion-to-alleviated-i40-240-congestion/) reports that the ribboncutting for the TN 385/Future I-269 "missing link" will be November 22 and that it will be open to traffic on November 30

CORRECTION: This TDOT press release (http://news.tn.gov/node/11681) states this section of TN 385 will open to traffic at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, November 22, 2013:

Quote
Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner John Schroer will join former Tennessee Gov. Winfield Dunn as well as state and local officials in Collierville, Tennessee on Friday, November 22, 2013 to open the last segment of SR 385 ....
Friday's event will begin at 10:00 a.m. CDT at Collierville's Town Hall and will end at approximately 12:00 p.m. on the southbound lanes of SR 385 at SR 57. A motorcade will begin at the Town Hall at approximately 10:45 a.m., traveling to the northbound on ramp to SR 385 at SR 57. In the event of rain, the motorcade will not take place.
*Special Note: SR 385 will officially open to traffic at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, November 22, 2013.

Open in time for a Thanksgiving drive!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on November 18, 2013, 02:19:15 PM
It might be time for a quickie road trip to Memphis this weekend!

It is also interesting that it makes no mention of I-269 in that press release.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: I94RoadRunner on November 18, 2013, 05:57:39 PM
Quote from: Sykotyk on July 20, 2009, 12:04:08 AM
Question:

With that layout, will the new I-22 (current US-78) ever reach I-240? Or will it simply end at I-269 or follow I-269 west to I-69 or north to I-40, etc?

That stretch of US-78 looks like it'd need some major work, or be aligned elsewhere, to make I-22 continue to I-240/I-40.

Sykotyk

I believe that I-22 will multiplex I-269 to the west and end at the junction of I-55/I-69. This section of I-269 is currently under construction and will allow I-22 to connect to another interstate near Memphis finally .....
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jpi on November 18, 2013, 11:03:15 PM
I would like to road trip out there myself this weekend but I will be in the opposite end of the state in UT country for a toy show this Saturday.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on November 23, 2013, 07:23:26 AM
VMS on I-40 west approaching TN 385 east of Memphis says "State Route 385 Now Open." There are very few signs up on the newly opened portion of TN 385. Only signs in place are Speed Limit signs. No indication is given on the VMS for traffic to use TN 385 to bypass the I-40/240 East Memphis interchange construction.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 03, 2013, 02:48:45 PM
Drove the road a couple of times last week when I was in Memphis for the Thanksgiving holiday. A few noteworthy things:

Progress on I-269 seems to be pretty far along on the TN portion at US 72, with both bridges' spans in place and much of the grading done. Further south at US 78, I didn't get a good look since it was late at night when I passed through there, but at least some of the spans were in place over eastbound US 78.  Seems like January 2018 is awfully pessimistic for I-269 to make it to US 78, given that MDOT has all the money in hand due to DeSoto County's HELP bonds.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SSF on December 03, 2013, 10:01:18 PM
Yes, when i drove through their last, most of the spans for 269 were in place over US 78.

edited for my lousy grammar. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on December 03, 2013, 10:10:53 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on December 03, 2013, 02:48:45 PM
Drove the road a couple of times last week when I was in Memphis for the Thanksgiving holiday. A few noteworthy things:

  • The eastbound/northbound transition has been restriped to the final configuration with I-269 as the through route; the right lane ends and the left lane becomes the exit only lane for TN 57. The southbound/westbound transition, however, is not restriped yet.
  • An overhead advance guide sign is in place southbound for the "exit" to TN 385 west toward Memphis.
  • TN 57's guide signs have been replaced with new signs mentioning both Piperton and Collierville.
  • Signage is only partially installed; none of the reassurance markers are in place, nor are many signs for city boundaries and waterways. Some of the county line crossings are marked, some are not. Some of the speed limit signs are temporary installations.
  • The (environmental) truck speed limit of 55 is in place even in the Fayette County portions of the route, despite legally only being required in Shelby County. Similarly the Fayette County portions could legally be signed at 70, not 65.
  • No mileage markers are in place (nor are any incident management signs), so it's not clear how the mileage marking will be reconciled with three Shelby County and two Fayette County sections of route.
  • No evidence of I-269 signage, other than the preexisting "Future I-269 Corridor" sign south of TN 57. Technically FHWA might not permit I-269 to be signed until the section south to MS 302 (or at least US 72) opens; both are NHS routes, while TN 57 isn't.

Progress on I-269 seems to be pretty far along on the TN portion at US 72, with both bridges' spans in place and much of the grading done. Further south at US 78, I didn't get a good look since it was late at night when I passed through there, but at least some of the spans were in place over eastbound US 78.  Seems like January 2018 is awfully pessimistic for I-269 to make it to US 78, given that MDOT has all the money in hand due to DeSoto County's HELP bonds.

Is TN 72 still posted? ;)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SFPredsFan on December 04, 2013, 01:44:42 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on November 23, 2013, 07:23:26 AM
VMS on I-40 west approaching TN 385 east of Memphis says "State Route 385 Now Open." There are very few signs up on the newly opened portion of TN 385. Only signs in place are Speed Limit signs. No indication is given on the VMS for traffic to use TN 385 to bypass the I-40/240 East Memphis interchange construction.

TDOT should go ahead and sign westbound I-40 to TN385 south with the control city of Jackson, MS and I-240 at the TN385 Bill Morris Parkway exit with the control city of Nashville. That would send thru traffic around avoiding the construction on I-240 from that exit all the way to the I-240/40 interchange. I avoid all construction zones like the plague. The lanes are always too narrow, no shoulders, constant lane shifts, and down right damn dangerous. It looks to be about 12 miles longer via TN385, but avoiding stop and go traffic and higher speeds would probably negate the extra mileage and if even 1 life is saved b/c TN385 will be safer it would be worth it. The widening of I-240 is about a year behind schedule but the rebuild of the I-240/40 interchange is going to take years and will be a real mess. The I-269 part in MS will be competed before the 240/40 interchange is rebuilt anyways.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on December 04, 2013, 07:10:51 AM
Quote from: US71 on December 03, 2013, 10:10:53 PM
Is TN 72 still posted? ;)


It was when I went through there on the 23rd of November.

Quote from: SFPredsFan on December 04, 2013, 01:44:42 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on November 23, 2013, 07:23:26 AM
VMS on I-40 west approaching TN 385 east of Memphis says "State Route 385 Now Open." There are very few signs up on the newly opened portion of TN 385. Only signs in place are Speed Limit signs. No indication is given on the VMS for traffic to use TN 385 to bypass the I-40/240 East Memphis interchange construction.

TDOT should go ahead and sign westbound I-40 to TN385 south with the control city of Jackson, MS and I-240 at the TN385 Bill Morris Parkway exit with the control city of Nashville. That would send thru traffic around avoiding the construction on I-240 from that exit all the way to the I-240/40 interchange. I avoid all construction zones like the plague. The lanes are always too narrow, no shoulders, constant lane shifts, and down right damn dangerous. It looks to be about 12 miles longer via TN385, but avoiding stop and go traffic and higher speeds would probably negate the extra mileage and if even 1 life is saved b/c TN385 will be safer it would be worth it. The widening of I-240 is about a year behind schedule but the rebuild of the I-240/40 interchange is going to take years and will be a real mess. The I-269 part in MS will be competed before the 240/40 interchange is rebuilt anyways.

There was a nasty lane closure on I-240 eastbound at TN 385 on Saturday, November 23rd that had it down to one lane before the widening project. I don't see why it is taking them so long to finish that project. At least the VMS signs approaching the construction zone warned motorists of the lane closure, instead of traffic fatality statistics.

The control cities will be changed for TN 385 probably when they change the control cities for TN 840 around Nashville. ;)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SFPredsFan on December 04, 2013, 09:04:28 AM
I read somewhere that utility relocation delayed the widening but a lot of Memphis drivers say they saw no work going on for months. Sounds like another excuse of a contractor bidding on too many projects and they didn't have the manpower and equipment to do them all.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jpi on December 11, 2013, 12:56:23 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on December 04, 2013, 07:10:51 AM
Quote from: US71 on December 03, 2013, 10:10:53 PM
Is TN 72 still posted? ;)


It was when I went through there on the 23rd of November.

Quote from: SFPredsFan on December 04, 2013, 01:44:42 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on November 23, 2013, 07:23:26 AM
VMS on I-40 west approaching TN 385 east of Memphis says "State Route 385 Now Open." There are very few signs up on the newly opened portion of TN 385. Only signs in place are Speed Limit signs. No indication is given on the VMS for traffic to use TN 385 to bypass the I-40/240 East Memphis interchange construction.

TDOT should go ahead and sign westbound I-40 to TN385 south with the control city of Jackson, MS and I-240 at the TN385 Bill Morris Parkway exit with the control city of Nashville. That would send thru traffic around avoiding the construction on I-240 from that exit all the way to the I-240/40 interchange. I avoid all construction zones like the plague. The lanes are always too narrow, no shoulders, constant lane shifts, and down right damn dangerous. It looks to be about 12 miles longer via TN385, but avoiding stop and go traffic and higher speeds would probably negate the extra mileage and if even 1 life is saved b/c TN385 will be safer it would be worth it. The widening of I-240 is about a year behind schedule but the rebuild of the I-240/40 interchange is going to take years and will be a real mess. The I-269 part in MS will be competed before the 240/40 interchange is rebuilt anyways.

There was a nasty lane closure on I-240 eastbound at TN 385 on Saturday, November 23rd that had it down to one lane before the widening project. I don't see why it is taking them so long to finish that project. At least the VMS signs approaching the construction zone warned motorists of the lane closure, instead of traffic fatality statistics.

The control cities will be changed for TN 385 probably when they change the control cities for TN 840 around Nashville. ;)
Agreed! I have a feeling the current state of 385 will not change until MS gets there sections finished, then we COULD see I-269 signs go up and proper control cities like Jackson, MS Nashville, TN maybe even Tunica.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on December 20, 2013, 11:44:21 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on December 03, 2013, 02:48:45 PM
Seems like January 2018 is awfully pessimistic for I-269 to make it to US 78, given that MDOT has all the money in hand due to DeSoto County's HELP bonds.

This article (http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2013/dec/21/building-capacities/) indicates that the Mayor of Piperton believes the current estimate for completion from MS 302 to I-55 in Mississippi is the end of 2016, but that the administrator for the Memphis MPO believes that it will be completed "in the next four to five years" :

Quote
"The leg of 269 between Piperton and Goodman Road/Highway 302 is scheduled for completion in the fall of next year, and the completion of Goodman Road to I-55 (in Mississippi) is scheduled for the end of 2016,"  said Piperton Mayor Henry Coats ....
"For the work on I-269 in Mississippi, some segments are under constructions and others will be completed in the next four to five years,"  said Pragati Srivastava, administrator of the Memphis Urban Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO).

Maybe MS 302 to US 78/Future I-22 will be completed by the end of 2016, with the remainder being completed a little bit later.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on January 06, 2014, 04:43:04 PM
The paving contract for Mississippi's section of I-269 from the TN state line to MS 302 is scheduled to be let on January 28, with a scheduled completion date of June 25, 2015:

http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=January%2028,%202014

Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on January 09, 2014, 01:05:00 PM
Quote from: SSF on December 03, 2013, 10:01:18 PM
when i drove through their last, most of the spans for 269 were in place over US 78.

If weather permitted, they should have placed some bridge beams yesterday:

http://www.wtva.com/news/national/story/Highway-to-Memphis-blocked/5TFPPn5FQ0O5BDB6ImJZrg.cspx

Quote
Roads will be periodically blocked Wednesday for drivers traveling toward Memphis on Highway 78.
Construction for a bridge on Interstate 69 will cause 15 minute traffic stalls on the highway between Red Banks Road and MS 309 as hanging bridge beams are placed.
Officials said the stalls will occur from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will mainly affect westbound drivers.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SSF on January 10, 2014, 12:41:54 AM
yea, i drove that way Monday and 70%(14 out of 20) of the beams were up. 

if they were effecting mainly westbound, that tells me they hung the beam over the westbound lanes for the furthest west I-269 bridge at least.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on February 11, 2014, 12:14:00 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on July 06, 2012, 10:47:18 PM
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FW6VUa.png&hash=395c2914d07a9e6d5818b73096f963cb137b2cdd)
Signs on I-269 North approaching TN 385
Quote from: Grzrd on October 21, 2013, 08:54:12 AM
This article (http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2013/oct/18/panattonis-speculative-warehouse-underway/)
The above-linked article also indicates that Mississippi and Tennessee will open the section from MS 302 (Goodman Road) to TN 385 by the end of 2014:
Quote
the first leg of Interstate 269 from Goodman Road to Tenn. 385 is expected to open by the end of 2014.
Quote from: Grzrd on January 06, 2014, 04:43:04 PM
The paving contract for Mississippi's section of I-269 from the TN state line to MS 302 is scheduled to be let on January 28, with a scheduled completion date of June 25, 2015:
http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=January%2028,%202014

On February 11, the Mississippi Highway Commission awarded the paving contract from the TN state line to MS 302 (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20140128/LETDOCS/20140128BidAwards.pdf) (page 3/4 of pdf):

Quote
AWARDED SUBJECT TO CONCURRENCE BY THE FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
STP-0029-03(011) / 102556308
MARSHALL COUNTY - Paving approximately 4 miles of SR 304/I-269 from SR 302 to the Tennessee Line
LEHMAN-ROBERTS COMPANY
PO BOX 1603
MEMPHIS, TN 38101
$11,308,279.76

The winning bid came in 15.28% below the state estimate (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20140128/LETDOCS/20140128CheckedBidResults.pdf) (page 1/4 of pdf).

I'm assuming that Tennessee will wait to open its TN 385 to MS state line section until Mississippi completes it MS 302 to TN state line section (now estimated to be June, 2015).  I also assume that that combined section will be signed as I-269.  If that assumption is correct, will TDOT go ahead and sign all of the "I-269" section of TN 385 as I-269 at that time?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on February 11, 2014, 04:22:20 PM
^ In the signing plans for the TN project, blue tenth mile markers are included which include I-269 shields in them (shows them in the plans I posted above). I would assume their plan is to sign it as I-269. It does look like the BGS signs will be upgraded later, though.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SFPredsFan on February 11, 2014, 06:58:25 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 11, 2014, 12:14:00 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on July 06, 2012, 10:47:18 PM
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FW6VUa.png&hash=395c2914d07a9e6d5818b73096f963cb137b2cdd)
Signs on I-269 North approaching TN 385
Quote from: Grzrd on October 21, 2013, 08:54:12 AM
This article (http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2013/oct/18/panattonis-speculative-warehouse-underway/)
The above-linked article also indicates that Mississippi and Tennessee will open the section from MS 302 (Goodman Road) to TN 385 by the end of 2014:
Quote
the first leg of Interstate 269 from Goodman Road to Tenn. 385 is expected to open by the end of 2014.
Quote from: Grzrd on January 06, 2014, 04:43:04 PM
The paving contract for Mississippi's section of I-269 from the TN state line to MS 302 is scheduled to be let on January 28, with a scheduled completion date of June 25, 2015:
http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=January%2028,%202014

On February 11, the Mississippi Highway Commission awarded the paving contract from the TN state line to MS 302 (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20140128/LETDOCS/20140128BidAwards.pdf) (page 3/4 of pdf):

Quote
AWARDED SUBJECT TO CONCURRENCE BY THE FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION
STP-0029-03(011) / 102556308
MARSHALL COUNTY - Paving approximately 4 miles of SR 304/I-269 from SR 302 to the Tennessee Line
LEHMAN-ROBERTS COMPANY
PO BOX 1603
MEMPHIS, TN 38101
$11,308,279.76

The winning bid came in 15.28% below the state estimate (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20140128/LETDOCS/20140128CheckedBidResults.pdf) (page 1/4 of pdf).

I'm assuming that Tennessee will wait to open its TN 385 to MS state line section until Mississippi completes it MS 302 to TN state line section (now estimated to be June, 2015).  I also assume that that combined section will be signed as I-269.  If that assumption is correct, will TDOT go ahead and sign all of the "I-269" section of TN 385 as I-269 at that time?

So the Control City for I-269 will be Evansville, IN? I would've thought it would be Dyersburg but it makes sense for Evansville since it is the only decent size city from Memphis to Indy. I never liked the change from St. Louis to Clarksville for I-24 in Nashville.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on March 08, 2014, 05:49:48 PM
Quote from: froggie on March 13, 2011, 06:01:25 PM
If I-269 was truly intended for freight/long-distance traffic, they wouldn't have 11 exits along it.  It'd be more along the lines of 6.

This article (http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2014/03/08/news/doc531a87544e0c0773964699.txt) reports that some DeSoto County officials have returned from a visit with Mississippi's D.C. delegation speaking of a somewhat positive reception regarding a proposed McIngvale Road (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=McIngvale+Road,+Hernando,+MS&hl=en&ll=34.859102,-89.971547&spn=0.028629,0.038581&sll=32.678125,-83.178297&sspn=7.514701,9.876709&oq=mcingvale&t=h&hnear=McIngvale+Rd,+Hernando,+Mississippi+38632&z=15) interchange:

Quote
DeSoto County Supervisor Mark Gardner ....
U.S. Sen. ... Roger Wicker ....
Both Gardner and Hernando Mayor Chip Johnson said the need for there to be a Hernando exit off Interstate 269 was discussed as well.
Gardner quoted Wicker as saying that having Mississippi Department of Transportation officials solidly behind the I-269 Hernando exit would be helpful.
Johnson said the McIngvale Road exit onto I-269 as it's known is of paramount concern.
"Everybody wants to do that project but we're just trying to find a way to fund it," Johnson said.

I assume this proposed exit is in addition to the original eleven exits.




Also, as previously posted in the I-69 in TN thread (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3841.msg280373#msg280373), the Memphis MPO submitted a Comment in which it asked that consideration be given to including I-269 in the Primary Freight Network:

Quote
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F9etxIba.jpg&hash=cbdeccfce6c52b0c29047b118cc6efc17adc8b0a)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FLf45etD.jpg&hash=953d2f9269916eff85ff6f1ce0799f43b5cf9f53)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Alex on March 10, 2014, 10:29:25 AM
I94RoadRunner took some photos of I-269 construction in Mississippi on Saturday. I compiled some of them in a blog post to show the progress of road work: https://www.aaroads.com/blog/2014/03/10/interstate-269-in-mississippi-progress/
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: roadman65 on March 10, 2014, 11:24:09 AM
Quote from: Alex on March 10, 2014, 10:29:25 AM
I94RoadRunner took some photos of I-269 construction in Mississippi on Saturday. I compiled some of them in a blog post to show the progress of road work: https://www.aaroads.com/blog/2014/03/10/interstate-269-in-mississippi-progress/
One thing interesting is the fact that I-22's western terminus and I-269's
southern terminus will be at the same place, so it will not effect either interstate's exit numbering scheme.

Good to see it move along though.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on March 10, 2014, 11:29:45 AM
Quote from: roadman65 on March 10, 2014, 11:24:09 AM
Quote from: Alex on March 10, 2014, 10:29:25 AM
I94RoadRunner took some photos of I-269 construction in Mississippi on Saturday. I compiled some of them in a blog post to show the progress of road work: https://www.aaroads.com/blog/2014/03/10/interstate-269-in-mississippi-progress/
One thing interesting is the fact that I-22's western terminus and I-269's
southern terminus will be at the same place, so it will not effect either interstate's exit numbering scheme.

Good to see it move along though.

If I-22 is moved onto I-269 to terminate at I-55, the exit numbers along current US 78 and mile posts will have to be renumbered east of I-269. It isn't a big deal, but with the state of Mississippi lacking in road funding, the cost to resign all of the exits will not be trivial. I also don't think it is a done deal that I-22 will be cosigned with I-269 between I-55 and US 78.

Also, even though the DeSoto County GIS shows the US 78/I-269 interchange as a cloverstack (it was once proposed to be), the design for the actual interchange will be a cloverleaf with C/D roads on both US 78 and I-269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: roadman65 on March 10, 2014, 06:08:10 PM
It cannot get any worse than I-70 in Illinois continuing where I-270's exit numbers left off after it leaves I-55.  Or even better yet where I-29 in Missouri has its zero milepost where it intersects I-35 and not at is official terminus with I-70 being a few miles short in miles on its milepost trekking.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: agentsteel53 on March 10, 2014, 07:27:02 PM
Quote from: roadman65 on March 10, 2014, 06:08:10 PM
It cannot get any worse than I-70 in Illinois continuing where I-270's exit numbers left off after it leaves I-55.  Or even better yet where I-29 in Missouri has its zero milepost where it intersects I-35 and not at is official terminus with I-70 being a few miles short in miles on its milepost trekking.

ehh, I always found I-29's multiplex with I-35 to be a bit gratuitous.  starting the mileage at the split is fine by me.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mwb1848 on March 10, 2014, 09:54:10 PM
...or Tennessee could just get with the program and just upgrade US 78 to I-240.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on March 11, 2014, 08:26:42 AM
Quote...or Tennessee could just get with the program and just upgrade US 78 to I-240.

Easier said than done.  There's *A LOT* of right-of-way and buildings they'd need to take out in order to do so.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on March 11, 2014, 09:00:18 AM
Quote from: froggie on March 11, 2014, 08:26:42 AM
Quote...or Tennessee could just get with the program and just upgrade US 78 to I-240.

Easier said than done.  There's *A LOT* of right-of-way and buildings they'd need to take out in order to do so.

Looks like this would bypass the worst:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fjd5BDSr.jpg&hash=88acbb89cb6b7da4b74a5ef8e5fec6e097e97b74)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on March 11, 2014, 09:03:13 AM
Perhaps, but now you're impacting airport facilities.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on March 11, 2014, 09:19:27 AM
Quote from: mwb1848 on March 10, 2014, 09:54:10 PM
...or Tennessee could just get with the program and just upgrade US 78 to I-240.

It really has little, if any, significance, but the Memphis Area inset on the Mississippi Highway Travel Map (http://mdot.ms.gov/documents/planning/Maps/State%20Highway%20Maps/Statewide%20Map%20-%20Insets/Memphis_Area.pdf) shows Future I-22 on US 78 in Tennessee:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FCMJFvg2.jpg&hash=120089f31d965d022cf9a2a1d90b7b84670be6f0)

An oddity if nothing else.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mwb1848 on March 11, 2014, 11:08:53 AM
Peer pressure?  :-P

More to the point, it's gotta be frustrating that Mississippi and Tennessee have cooperated on the development of I-269, but can't seem to get on the same page when it comes to I-22.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SFPredsFan on March 11, 2014, 12:01:56 PM
TDOT is in the EIS phase to upgrade US 78 to from the MS state line to I-240 to Interstate status for I-22 but the ROW is a HUGE problem through some of the industrial area's in SE Memphis. I read they are ready to let the contract to upgrade a part of Lamar Ave. from Shelby to Winchester to freeway status and have budgeted this year to acquire the ROW to upgrade it from the state line to Shelby. It would seem to me the best way to avoid clearing so much ROW all the way to I-240 would be to double deck part(s) of the highway with frontage roads on each side of the new freeway. But the earthquake potential in Memphis might not make that possible. California has done away with most double deck freeways except for I-280 in SF and some bridges and to be honest when I lived in SF and drove I-280 I was nervous as hell driving it. It felt like a rollercoaster at high speeds and the double deck felt like it was settling in some spots.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on March 11, 2014, 09:41:59 PM
Even if they double-decked the mainline, they'd have to clear out right-of-way on at least one side of Lamar in order to build the frontage roads.  I just don't see it happening.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SFPredsFan on March 12, 2014, 02:58:50 AM
I was thinking about that and TDOT could force those businesses to use backside streets. It would be cheaper and better than taking the ROW and almost all of the businesses are industrial so it's not like they need their front door car/truck entrance on the highway. A double deck would only be needed for a mile or maybe 2 miles but again the earthquake potential might make the entire idea of double decking mute. Memphis will turn into quicksand in the next earthquake. That city is going to be in ruins when the next New Madrid quake hits.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on March 12, 2014, 07:42:40 AM
^ I see a double-deck freeway a non-starter in that area, especially due to earthquakes and making that area even more of an eyesore. Backage roads might do well, as you said. I am not sure if TDOT intends on upgrading Lamar to full interstate standards. I thought the plan was to simply replace major intersections with interchanges, but I could be wrong.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SFPredsFan on March 12, 2014, 08:43:13 AM
The US 78/Lamar study was completed back in 2011 and the recommendations from TDOT on the consultants study was a 8 lane full controlled Interstate freeway with no at grade crossings rather than the no-build or widening with at grade options. Frontage roads are being considered but ROW is a problem with businesses so close to US 78 so that's why I thought backside access would work. The double deck is a long shot indeed but nothing you can do to that area will make it look any better. There's almost no housing and it's all heavy industrial, railroad, and trucking depots. That area wouldn't even need any noise wall barriers except right near I-240 on the east side of Lamar where there's a couple of small subdivisions.

http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/documents/LamarAvenueCorridor_June2011.pdf


Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: I94RoadRunner on March 14, 2014, 11:03:36 PM
Quote from: froggie on March 11, 2014, 09:41:59 PM
Even if they double-decked the mainline, they'd have to clear out right-of-way on at least one side of Lamar in order to build the frontage roads.  I just don't see it happening.


I would tend to agree with your assessment Adam. Just don't see I-22 or an I-x22 happening any further north than the TN/MS state line due to the commercial development. Besides, I have heard that it is almost certain that I-22 is going to follow I-269 to junction I-55/69 in Hernando.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on March 25, 2014, 08:41:02 AM
MDOT has issued a News Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=1141&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2) announcing that Mississippi's I-269 construction has reached the halfway point:

Quote
All phases of the project are under construction with several more than halfway complete. In October 2013, one section of the project, from SR 302 to the Tennessee state line in Marshall County was completed. Paving for this section will take place later this spring.
I-269 in Mississippi is composed of seven individual projects that total approximately 25 miles of four-lane highway in Desoto and Marshall Counties. Construction on this $268 million interstate project began in 2011 and is scheduled for completion in the fall of 2015 ....
Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert ....
"This is more than just a bypass around Memphis,"  said Tagert. "The construction of I-269 will transform the region by connecting local communities in several states and will have far-reaching international implications."

The News Release also has two photos:

The MS 302 interchange:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtwyOkZ7.jpg&hash=0d2874c659f02ee165d59e05f9a056434deeb856)

The US 78/Future I-22 interchange:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FlEPm4B0.jpg&hash=c30958181533b811fa0eed0c5eb424eb62f88a25)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Chris on March 26, 2014, 09:29:30 AM
Google released some new imagery of the Memphis area. It's not yet in Google Maps, but it is in Google Earth. For some reason Google is very late with updating Google Maps and releasing the update KML lately. This imagery has been in Google Earth for over a month now.

This is a set of bridges immediately east of the US 78 interchange
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fc4ey55T.jpg&hash=470cba300d9dacd2e2e461319bf7dda866074a32)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Henry on March 26, 2014, 12:46:59 PM
Quote from: I94RoadRunner on March 14, 2014, 11:03:36 PM
Quote from: froggie on March 11, 2014, 09:41:59 PM
Even if they double-decked the mainline, they'd have to clear out right-of-way on at least one side of Lamar in order to build the frontage roads.  I just don't see it happening.


I would tend to agree with your assessment Adam. Just don't see I-22 or an I-x22 happening any further north than the TN/MS state line due to the commercial development. Besides, I have heard that it is almost certain that I-22 is going to follow I-269 to junction I-55/69 in Hernando.
I have reason to believe the same thing.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mwb1848 on March 26, 2014, 02:14:59 PM
Mississippi's obsession with clover-leafs with C/D roads will create several situations in which drivers have to exit the mainlanes of a freeway to stay on the interstate.
Adds to a pretty frustrating lack of strategic visioning.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: SSF on March 27, 2014, 12:29:56 AM
Chris-your pic is 269 over the old US 78, now Mississippi 178.  I drove that route a few weeks ago and that is a fairly recent pic of the whole area.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: thefro on April 08, 2014, 11:15:14 AM
This says "I-69 trade belt" but I assume it's refering to I-269 based on the description

QuoteHERNANDO, Miss. (AP) – DeSoto County will borrow $83 million through the state to keep work going on the Interstate 69 project.

The Interstate 69 trade belt from Mexico to Canada includes 25 miles of four-lane highway from Interstate 55 near Hernando through DeSoto and Marshall counties to the Tennessee state line. Work began in 2011 with completion expected in fall 2015.

"It's necessary, because without this, construction would stop," said Board of Supervisors President Lee Caldwell of Nesbit about issuing bonds for the $83 million.

"And it won't take from the taxpayers of DeSoto County," she told The Commercial Appeal (http://bit.ly/1lNbsMe ) after Monday's action.

The transportation agency has no bonding authority, but local governments do. Under the program, the funds are repaid by the Federal Highway Administration through the state Transportation Department.

DeSoto supervisors also agreed to increase the overall funding cap from $275 million to $375 million. Marshall County has taken similar action.

Northern District Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert recently told supervisors that construction is underway on all phases of the seven-part project, with several more than halfway done. However, Tagert said funding wasn't halfway done, noting the final phases of paving and asphalt overlays would be the most expensive.

http://www.seattlepi.com/news/article/DeSoto-Co-supervisors-approve-I-69-bonds-5385146.php
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on April 08, 2014, 11:27:08 AM
Quote from: thefro on April 08, 2014, 11:15:14 AM
This says "I-69 trade belt" but I assume it's refering to I-269 based on the description

This article (http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2014/04/08/news/doc534346171102a184885397.txt) confirms that it is I-269:

Quote
Early estimates that it would take upward of $275 million to construct I-269, the proposed super highway between Mexico and Canada, were off the mark – at least $100 million off the mark, according to financial consultants who appeared before DeSoto County Supervisors Monday.

The article also notes that the additional money is needed in part because paving costs had not been included in the earlier estimates  :ded: :

Quote
Previously, DeSoto County had participated with MDOT on a $192 bond issuance for I-269. Now, MDOT is in need of another $83 million to continue.
Ironically, paving costs were not included in the earlier estimates. The $83 million would be used in part to pave I-269 from Interstate 55 up to State Highway 302.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Alps on April 08, 2014, 06:08:46 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on April 08, 2014, 11:27:08 AM
Quote from: thefro on April 08, 2014, 11:15:14 AM
This says "I-69 trade belt" but I assume it's refering to I-269 based on the description

This article (http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2014/04/08/news/doc534346171102a184885397.txt) confirms that it is I-269:

Quote
Early estimates that it would take upward of $275 million to construct I-269, the proposed super highway between Mexico and Canada, were off the mark – at least $100 million off the mark, according to financial consultants who appeared before DeSoto County Supervisors Monday.

The article also notes that the additional money is needed in part because paving costs had not been included in the earlier estimates  :ded: :

Quote
Previously, DeSoto County had participated with MDOT on a $192 bond issuance for I-269. Now, MDOT is in need of another $83 million to continue.
Ironically, paving costs were not included in the earlier estimates. The $83 million would be used in part to pave I-269 from Interstate 55 up to State Highway 302.
What's ironic about it? "Unusually" or "notably," perhaps.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on April 09, 2014, 07:30:49 AM
Par for the course for Mississippi.  They have LONG separated major road projects into two contracts...one for grading and bridges, then a second contract for paving after the first contract is finished or close to it.  Only rarely will they combine the two into a single contract.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TrevorB on July 16, 2014, 07:53:01 PM
First new news story about I-269 in quite a while just came out. (http://wreg.com/2014/07/16/holly-springs-prepares-for-economic-boom-from-i-69/)

The story essentially gave some general updates and showed work on the I-22 (US-78) interchange. The story just ran on the 6pm news so the video isn't up yet on the page...but it should be soon. They also used the photo on the first page of this thread on the article. For some reason the title is "I-69" but the article is about 269. Guess there's a lot of new numbers coming in at once for the media to learn.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on August 30, 2014, 04:38:42 PM
Quote from: Alex on March 10, 2014, 10:29:25 AM
I94RoadRunner took some photos of I-269 construction in Mississippi on Saturday. I compiled some of them in a blog post to show the progress of road work: https://www.aaroads.com/blog/2014/03/10/interstate-269-in-mississippi-progress/

Google Street View now has some May, 2014 imagery where various roads cross the construction area. A few examples:

McIngvale Road: https://www.google.com/maps/@34.863569,-89.967908,3a,75y,296.92h,96.92t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sHwsU_b9JiGHblYnOWg-Zuw!2e0?hl=en

Getwell Road: https://www.google.com/maps/@34.869174,-89.936245,3a,75y,300.96h,95.45t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1s6e3Agw-gMGa__TPvKHI_9w!2e0?hl=en

Douglas Road (my favorite, with apologies to Stonehenge): https://www.google.com/maps/@34.869025,-89.92504,3a,75y,7.03h,86.51t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sta2TZ3L5aJmEAialpyAdoQ!2e0?hl=en

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbADN4gS.jpg&hash=2dc5e4f93864f5ce9eee885f264a19255f9976d1)

Craft Road: https://www.google.com/maps/@34.866232,-89.865181,3a,75y,206.27h,92.28t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1swGxkwUpQ43lsfgDjAMNTdg!2e0?hl=en
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on September 16, 2014, 08:43:39 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 25, 2012, 04:39:11 PM
Included as part of the presentation materials for the Desoto County, Mississippi I-269 Corridor Study is a map showing MDOT's I-269 construction schedule (http://desotodiscovery.com/mm_uploads/I-269_Construction_Schedule_final-8-6-12.pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fv1qTY.jpg&hash=35e56152a2b88e19ce22907d5175826114e4b3b8)

MDOT's Five Year Plan (http://mdot.ms.gov/applications/five_year_plan/five_year_plan.aspx), as of September 15, 2014, shows that the three paving projects needed to complete Future I-269 from I-55 to MS 302 will be let in 2016:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FMwsqai1.jpg&hash=a3d460a9b16a5f3f3ea6a0a5f6545de5d0362a74)

This may or may not represent a slight delay from the previous August, 2015 projections, depending on how fiscal years are defined.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ATLRedSoxFan on September 16, 2014, 10:27:47 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 30, 2014, 04:38:42 PM
Douglas Road (my favorite, with apologies to Stonehenge): https://www.google.com/maps/@34.869025,-89.92504,3a,75y,7.03h,86.51t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1sta2TZ3L5aJmEAialpyAdoQ!2e0?hl=en

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbADN4gS.jpg&hash=2dc5e4f93864f5ce9eee885f264a19255f9976d1)

Craft Road: https://www.google.com/maps/@34.866232,-89.865181,3a,75y,206.27h,92.28t/data=!3m4!1e1!3m2!1swGxkwUpQ43lsfgDjAMNTdg!2e0?hl=en

The last one reminds me of how Quebec can build at times.

Fixed quote. (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=4000.0) - rmf67
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Henry on September 16, 2014, 10:53:59 AM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on September 16, 2014, 10:27:47 AM(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FbADN4gS.jpg&hash=2dc5e4f93864f5ce9eee885f264a19255f9976d1)
I've never seen freeway overpasses built like that! I'm assuming that this will become part of a longer viaduct?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on September 16, 2014, 12:07:42 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 16, 2014, 08:43:39 AM
MDOT's Five Year Plan (http://mdot.ms.gov/applications/five_year_plan/five_year_plan.aspx), as of September 15, 2014, shows that the three paving projects needed to complete Future I-269 from I-55 to MS 302 will be let in 2016 ....
This may or may not represent a slight delay from the previous August, 2015 projections, depending on how fiscal years are defined.

This September 15 MDOT Project Update (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=1311&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2) states that I-269 construction in Mississippi is on schedule:

Quote
Construction continues on schedule for the I-269 project in North Mississippi, according to the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT).
All phases of the project are under construction with several more than halfway complete. Contractors continue earthwork and bridge construction, while paving operations on one section of the project, from SR 302 to the Tennessee state line in Marshall County, began earlier this summer.
I-269 in Mississippi is composed of seven individual projects that total approximately 25 miles of four-lane highway in Desoto and Marshall Counties. Construction on this over $640 million interstate project began in 2011. This project is made available by the sale of H.E.L.P. bonds.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on September 16, 2014, 07:48:50 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 16, 2014, 08:43:39 AM
MDOT's Five Year Plan (http://mdot.ms.gov/applications/five_year_plan/five_year_plan.aspx), as of September 15, 2014, shows that the three paving projects needed to complete Future I-269 from I-55 to MS 302 will be let in 2016:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FMwsqai1.jpg&hash=a3d460a9b16a5f3f3ea6a0a5f6545de5d0362a74)

This may or may not represent a slight delay from the previous August, 2015 projections, depending on how fiscal years are defined.

Mississippi's fiscal year for year x runs July 1, (x-1) through June 30, (x). With the construction being bond-funded it shouldn't be delayed unless DeSoto County just can't sell the bonds for some reason.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on October 02, 2014, 12:25:08 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 16, 2014, 08:43:39 AM
MDOT's Five Year Plan (http://mdot.ms.gov/applications/five_year_plan/five_year_plan.aspx), as of September 15, 2014, shows that the three paving projects needed to complete Future I-269 from I-55 to MS 302 will be let in 2016:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FMwsqai1.jpg&hash=a3d460a9b16a5f3f3ea6a0a5f6545de5d0362a74)

MDOT's Five Year Plan (as of October 2) (http://mdot.ms.gov/applications/five_year_plan/five_year_plan.aspx) has a 2015 letting scheduled for what I think is preliminary engineering for the Marshall County paving project:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FojHCQg8.png&hash=05fe6f5736ca897915140626129bc63b4bcd8647)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on October 02, 2014, 05:42:17 PM
That will at least give future I-22 freeway access to the Memphis interstate system.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on November 12, 2014, 05:33:11 PM
I recently had some email correspondence in which a MDOT Assistant Chief Engineer confirmed that I-269 in Mississippi will have a dual designation with MS 304:

Quote
Our plan is to sign I-269/ MS 304 as a concurrent route from I-55 to the state line.

Here's Q & A with my followup question:

Quote
Q:  In the short term, the state line to MS 302 section will be open for 2-3 years before all of I-269 in Mississippi is completed to I-55.  Will that section have the dual designation during that short term time period?

A: To the best of my knowledge, yes.

On the TDOT side, I have been unsuccessful in finding out what state designation, if any, the short, new terrain TN 385 to state line section will receive in about a year (it can't be TN 385 because TN 385 makes the sharp turn back to I-240). I have only received confirmation that the relevant TN 385 section plus this short section is "Future I-269".  If the short, new terrain section will be signed as I-269 in a year, then will the TN 385 section also be signed as I-269 at that time?

I decided to drop the TDOT effort and check back with them in about six months.  If anyone else wants to try .......
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on November 12, 2014, 06:02:51 PM
TDOT doesn't assign state route numbers to Interstates. The 2012-2014 construction program list (http://www.tdot.state.tn.us/Chief_Engineer/docs/2012-2014_Program.pdf) lists it only as I-269 PROP, while other future roadways have SR numbers assigned (e.g. SR-462 PROP). It looks likely that it will be signed as I-269, with future banners if AASHTO or FHWA throws a fit. Or, if TN completes their piece before MS, they may simply sign it TO US 72 and TO SR 385.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on November 12, 2014, 10:51:12 PM
It shouldn't be an issue, since the north/west end of 385 (US 51) is on the NHS and so will be either terminus (US 72 or MS 302).

The only potential silliness is with even/odd numbering; even then, you could designate (non-future) I-269 between I-40 and US 72 or MS 302, since MDOT is actively constructing the connection to I-55/69 (and, for that matter, I-22), and leave the remainder from US 51 to I-40 to be signed as I-269 once I-69 reaches Millington.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on November 13, 2014, 10:24:21 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 12, 2014, 05:33:11 PM
On the TDOT side, I have been unsuccessful in finding out what state designation, if any, the short, new terrain TN 385 to state line section will receive in about a year (it can't be TN 385 because TN 385 makes the sharp turn back to I-240). I have only received confirmation that the relevant TN 385 section plus this short section is "Future I-269".  If the short, new terrain section will be signed as I-269 in a year, then will the TN 385 section also be signed as I-269 at that time?

I decided to drop the TDOT effort and check back with them in about six months.  If anyone else wants to try .......

The signage plans I downloaded for the portion under construction has signage for I-269 only.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on February 10, 2015, 11:51:42 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on January 20, 2015, 04:29:47 PM
As of two weeks ago there's not any paving done at all on the ramps at future I-269 and US 72, just grading, and the overpasses are still incomplete, so if TDOT is opening that segment sometime this year they're going to have to get the lead out.
(above quote from I-69 in TN (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3841.msg2035859#msg2035859) thread)

This article (http://www.memphisdailynews.com/news/2015/feb/10/digest/) reports that there will be some lane closures on TN 385 this week for the setting of bridge beams:

Quote
All lanes of Tenn. 385 between U.S. 72 and Tenn. 57 will close from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, through Friday, Feb. 13.
The interstate is closing to set bridge beams across the westbound lanes of 385 for a new on-ramp from Interstate 269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on May 02, 2015, 07:17:08 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on March 08, 2014, 05:49:48 PM
This article (http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2014/03/08/news/doc531a87544e0c0773964699.txt) reports that some DeSoto County officials have returned from a visit with Mississippi's D.C. delegation speaking of a somewhat positive reception regarding a proposed McIngvale Road (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=McIngvale+Road,+Hernando,+MS&hl=en&ll=34.859102,-89.971547&spn=0.028629,0.038581&sll=32.678125,-83.178297&sspn=7.514701,9.876709&oq=mcingvale&t=h&hnear=McIngvale+Rd,+Hernando,+Mississippi+38632&z=15) interchange:
Quote
DeSoto County Supervisor Mark Gardner ....
U.S. Sen. ... Roger Wicker ....
Both Gardner and Hernando Mayor Chip Johnson said the need for there to be a Hernando exit off Interstate 269 was discussed as well.
Gardner quoted Wicker as saying that having Mississippi Department of Transportation officials solidly behind the I-269 Hernando exit would be helpful.
Johnson said the McIngvale Road exit onto I-269 as it's known is of paramount concern.
"Everybody wants to do that project but we're just trying to find a way to fund it," Johnson said.

This April 30 article (http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2015/05/01/news/doc55418762b2227051532964.txt) reports that I-269 is still on track to be open to traffic in 2017 and that local officials are still trying, unsuccessfully so far, to receive approval for a McIngvale Road interchange:

Quote
There are challenges that go along with transportation improvements as DeSoto County Economic Development Council CEO and President Jim Flanagan pointed out.
Flanagan said lack of an interchange at McIngvale and I-269 is one of those unique challenges.
"The challenge there is the lack of an interchange," Flanagan said during a roundtable discussion period. "The lack of ingress and egress exacerbates the difficulty for traffic moving in and out."
Hernando Mayor Chip Johnson said signalization of the Nesbit interchange at Pleasant Hill and U.S. 51 could occur this fall.
I-269 is slated to be completed and open for traffic by 2017.
Hernando attorney and property owner Bill Brown echoed Flanagan in agreeing that an additional interchange is needed.
"The impact would be tremendous," Brown said.
Lack of an interchange impacts retail sales tax dollars, according to Hernando Main Street/Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Susan Fernandez.
"With the I-269 loop, there is no easy way to get them to Hernando to shop," Fernandez said.
According to MDOT regulations, which cite allowed distances between interchanges, an interchange at McIngvale and I-269 was considered too close in proximity to the exit at I-55 and thus was not included in the loop's final design.
City officials have quietly waged a battle behind the scenes for an interchange at McIngvale and I-269 which would link east Hernando and Commerce Street to I-269 and provide a route to downtown Hernando.
That effort has not proved fruitful, so far.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Atomica on May 03, 2015, 12:58:54 AM
Quote from: Revive 755 on July 20, 2009, 08:28:09 PM
Quote from: xonhulu on July 20, 2009, 06:59:25 PM
I-44-55-64-70 in St Louis, at least after US 70 gets re-routed.  It's signed like it has all 4 freeways now, but I'm not sure I-44 officially makes it there now.  Anyone?

Really depends upon the source.  Going by signage only SB I-55 overlaps with I-44.  The FHWA route log has I-55 overlapping I-44 (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/reports/routefinder/table1.cfm (http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/reports/routefinder/table1.cfm)), but then it seems to be somewhat error-prone for the St. Louis region (just check the IL mileage for I-70).  The EIS for the SB I-55 viaduct between that interchange and the I-44 interchange was labeled for I-44, so take your pick. 

But after I-70 gets relocated, and before the full build out of the new bridge plans, there will be a pair of three interstate interchanges, with I-44/I-55/I-64 at the west end of the PSB, and I-55/I-64/I-70 at the Tri-Level.  Though the Tri-Level could stay as a three interstate junction should the I-64 connector to the new bridge get a three digit designation.


(Edited to fix I-54 typo in second to last line)

The I-44 currently is multiplexed with the I-55 into downtown St Louis.  The I-55 goes up Poplar Street Bridge with the I-64, whilst the I-44 goes up to the I-70 a couple of miles north where the I-70 branches off to the Stan Musial Bridge.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Scott5114 on May 03, 2015, 05:35:36 PM
You're from the California, aren't you?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on May 03, 2015, 05:47:27 PM
Quote from: Scott5114 on May 03, 2015, 05:35:36 PM
You're from the California, aren't you?

Possibly, but he would just leave out I- and just call it "The 44" and "The 55."
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on May 03, 2015, 09:59:07 PM
Has there been any news or Photos of IH-269 construction? I only visit that area one a year...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Atomica on May 04, 2015, 12:00:08 AM
Quote from: Scott5114 on May 03, 2015, 05:35:36 PM
You're from the California, aren't you?
Yes, I am originally from California, but have lived in Missouri for more than 20 years.  I think I might have picked up the habit of referring to interstates like "the I-44" or "the I-405" more from watching British television programmes like Police Camera Action - where references to "the M1", "the M25", "the A1" are common...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on May 23, 2015, 06:22:11 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 10, 2015, 11:51:42 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on January 20, 2015, 04:29:47 PM
As of two weeks ago there's not any paving done at all on the ramps at future I-269 and US 72, just grading, and the overpasses are still incomplete, so if TDOT is opening that segment sometime this year they're going to have to get the lead out.
(above quote from I-69 in TN (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3841.msg2035859#msg2035859) thread)

This Commercial Appeal article (http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/local-news/initial-i269-segment-nearing-completion_28875240) includes two photos of construction of a flyover ramp and reports that TDOT and MDOT are still on track to finish the first non-Tenn 385 segment of I-269 "by sometime this fall":

Quote
With the pouring of a deck for a flyover ramp in Collierville this month, passing motorists saw concrete evidence of progress on the initial phase of what will be a 25-mile, $710 million-plus freeway loop around the Memphis area's southern perimeter.
By sometime this fall, workers on both sides of the state line are expected to complete a five-mile leg of Interstate 269 extending from Tenn. 385 in Collierville to Miss. 302 in Marshall County. The project is costing $53.8 million, including $42.5 million for the section from Collierville to the Mississippi line.
"It's really going to open up things a lot for moving traffic through the area,"  said Steve Chipman, who is managing the Tennessee Department of Transportation's portion of the project.
I-269 is the local bypass loop along the planned I-69 route extending from Canada to Mexico. The entire loop will cover a nearly 60-mile horseshoe-shaped alignment from Millington to Hernando, Mississippi. The northern portion – from Millington to Collierville – has been finished, although it remains designated Tenn. 385 pending completion of other components of the loop. The segment slated to be completed this fall will be the first to carry traffic along the southern I-269 loop extending south from Collierville to near Byhalia, Mississippi, then swinging westward to Hernando, where it will connect with I-55/69.




Quote from: Grzrd on May 02, 2015, 07:17:08 PM
This April 30 article (http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2015/05/01/news/doc55418762b2227051532964.txt) reports that I-269 is still on track to be open to traffic in 2017.

However, the Commercial Appeal article also reports that MDOT officials are now looking at a 2018 opening for the remainder of the Mississippi section:

Quote
The eight segments in Mississippi will cost a total of $668 million, said Jason Scott, public information officer for the Mississippi Department of Transportation. The segment from Collierville to the Mississippi line brings the total cost to more than $710 million.
Scott said the seven other segments in Mississippi are all more than 50 percent completed, although paving has not yet begun on them. The entire loop should be finished in 2018, Scott said.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: triplemultiplex on May 27, 2015, 11:28:49 AM
I think TN and MS should be allowed to start signing 269 later this year.  This will avoid having to deal with some BS temporary designation for the new segment.  This should include all of the TN 385 portion of I-269.  I don't care that we are no where near getting I-69 north of Memphis, go ahead and do it anyway.  This is one of those situations where sticking to the letter of some rule is silly.  The physical connection to the parent is under construction and fussing over how it ends is foolish pedantry.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on May 27, 2015, 06:13:00 PM
I think FHWA has no problem with signing I-269; it's just TDOT not bothering to sign it yet even though legally they could (same with I-69, for that matter).

I did notice on my way north yesterday that TN 385 is now signed north/south on the formerly east/west Paul Barret Pkwy section of the loop, at least at TN 14; maybe they're planning to come in and install I-269 signs when they get around to opening the section down to MS 302 in a few months.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on May 28, 2015, 06:41:40 PM
Two other bits of info: 385 is definitely signed north/south at I-40 now too.

Also, some of the signage is up for the I-269/385 split in Collierville, although the signs for 269 proper are missing or covered up. Southbound there's two APL signs installed, with 385 west marked as a righthand optional-lane exit as "Exit 2," indicating TDOT doesn't plan to continue Mississippi's mileage. The control city on at least one sign was Collierville rather than Memphis (which is what's on the advance sign at the TN 57 exit).

Photos soon, hopefully.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: golden eagle on May 30, 2015, 12:36:43 AM
Quote from: triplemultiplex on May 27, 2015, 11:28:49 AM
I think TN and MS should be allowed to start signing 269 later this year.

Rand McNally already has in the 2016 atlas.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TrevorB on May 31, 2015, 07:13:43 PM
Decided to head out to I-269 today to get some pictures.

First, progress at the MS 302 interchange. Looked like the majority of it was paved.

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F05%2F31%2Fc807a80f02c141ea37d938a47925cedb.jpg&hash=e460278d453edec24417e73f3fd55e35c2c3e50c)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F05%2F31%2F98df564dcc06fc0332333f8a6d1b0345.jpg&hash=302397b1aff43d227fc16e55782822753b7d18e8)

Got a quick picture of the east/northbound signage at the 385/269 junction
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F05%2F31%2Fc1e249b57e4085ce3d1c0230e7e371b3.jpg&hash=2cfa4ca52ab00c89e690cafd8f082ea59c168dae)

Next, the two new APL signs that were mentioned previously. You can see where the left portion of the signs are blank...this is where I-269 will continue south.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F05%2F31%2F235c415a5c75aef2dcf960eebefdfcbd.jpg&hash=eb326a1f0c6448fa3150732ba334aad709a56a1e)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F05%2F31%2F629ffd3d0c7c4fe5694e96c2800daf06.jpg&hash=c79239ee7896186508a6ab2a0034fadcb998915c)


Lastly, a view of the progress at the 385/269 junction itself (looking south)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F05%2F31%2F399f7b43d4ef3a24f2b11c089e116648.jpg&hash=94c01a72f22c3433d9232594289a29e8ecff59bf)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bugo on June 02, 2015, 06:03:48 AM
Is the orphaned part of TN 385 going to become an interstate? If this were NC we were talking about it would have been a "future" interstate 15 years ago.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bugo on June 02, 2015, 07:13:45 AM
I noticed on the last Google satellite imagery the entire part of I-269 is graded and cleared except for a stretch just south of Dogwood where there is no grading. Is this going to be a long bridge over a floodplain? There is a creek that runs through that area.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bugo on June 02, 2015, 08:15:17 AM
Will TN 385 and I-269 be co-signed at least for a while?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on June 02, 2015, 01:18:11 PM
Quote from: bugo on June 02, 2015, 06:03:48 AM
Is the orphaned part of TN 385 going to become an interstate? If this were NC we were talking about it would have been a "future" interstate 15 years ago.

I doubt it, since TDOT typically doesn't ask for interstate designations for non-chargeable freeways (think TN 155, TN 386, etc.), future "I-840" being the exception that proves the rule.

QuoteI noticed on the last Google satellite imagery the entire part of I-269 is graded and cleared except for a stretch just south of Dogwood where there is no grading. Is this going to be a long bridge over a floodplain? There is a creek that runs through that area.

That's the Coldwater River and surrounding marshland. I'd imagine that they've finally started work on it since the other crossing (west of I-22) was pretty much done.

QuoteWill TN 385 and I-269 be co-signed at least for a while?

Your guess is as good as mine. I don't think TDOT and MDOT have even applied for the I-269 designation yet (maybe at the September AASHTO meeting?); it's not in the FHWA route log for either state.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TrevorB on June 02, 2015, 01:19:45 PM
lordsutch beat me to it, just by a few seconds. Went ahead and deleted mine since it's pretty much the same info.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on June 03, 2015, 05:30:53 PM
I noticed when driving through on MS 302 during the night at I-269 that there are butterfly gantries installed on the side approaching I-269 on MS 302. I assume these will be for message boards similar to the ones on US 78/I-22 approaching I-269? I didn't realize that those were being installed as part of the paving project to MS 302.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on June 03, 2015, 05:34:43 PM
I noticed those too; they appear identical to the ones MDOT installed on US 78, so I assume that's the plan.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on August 19, 2015, 10:26:46 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on March 08, 2014, 05:49:48 PM
This article (http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2014/03/08/news/doc531a87544e0c0773964699.txt) reports that some DeSoto County officials have returned from a visit with Mississippi's D.C. delegation speaking of a somewhat positive reception regarding a proposed McIngvale Road (https://maps.google.com/maps?q=McIngvale+Road,+Hernando,+MS&hl=en&ll=34.859102,-89.971547&spn=0.028629,0.038581&sll=32.678125,-83.178297&sspn=7.514701,9.876709&oq=mcingvale&t=h&hnear=McIngvale+Rd,+Hernando,+Mississippi+38632&z=15) interchange
Quote from: Grzrd on May 02, 2015, 07:17:08 PM
This April 30 article (http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2015/05/01/news/doc55418762b2227051532964.txt) reports that ... local officials are still trying, unsuccessfully so far, to receive approval for a McIngvale Road interchange:
Quote
According to MDOT regulations, which cite allowed distances between interchanges, an interchange at McIngvale and I-269 was considered too close in proximity to the exit at I-55 and thus was not included in the loop's final design.
City officials have quietly waged a battle behind the scenes for an interchange at McIngvale and I-269 which would link east Hernando and Commerce Street to I-269 and provide a route to downtown Hernando.
That effort has not proved fruitful, so far.

This article (http://www.desototimes.com/news/hernando-mulls-tax-increase/article_5255385e-46c6-11e5-a658-67641a3aaab3.html) reports that Hernando may get the McIngvale Road interchange if (1) a tax levy is passed, and (2) McIngvale is "straightened out" and made into a five-lane:

Quote
The Hernando Board of Aldermen are considering the city's first tax increase in 20 years to fix crumbling roads, shortfalls in city departments and operations along with overall strapped purse strings.
By a vote of 4-2, city officials voted to advertise for a tax levy that reflects a 3.175 millage increase.
Hernando's current tax rate of 31.75 is among the lowest in the county. If approved, the new rate would be 34.925 mills.
Alderman At-large Sam Lauderdale, who proposed the motion, a fifth-term incumbent, said the DeSoto County seat has tried to hold taxes down for nearly two decades. Budgets have been cut to the bare bone ....
Under the proposal, all millage or about $390,000 would go toward debt service of a five-year $4.5 million bond issue ....
Lauderdale said among the proposals are funds included which would facilitate a new interchange at McIngvale and Interstate 269, something which would transform Hernando's economy.
Without the City of Hernando undertaking a $950,000 project – $450,000 if DeSoto County Government becomes involved – hopes of an I-269 McIngvale Interchange are all but dead.
"We hope the county will help us," Ward 3 Alderman Gary Higdon said. "We need that interchange and the only way we can do it is get money from the bond issue."
Failure to obtain the interchange could set the city back for decades, according to Higdon and other city officials.
"We have been advised by MDOT, we will not get an interchange unless we redo McIngvale and make it five-lane," Lauderdale said, adding the "redo" includes straightening out the curvy link to the nation's newest super highway, I-269. "This city is boxed in. We need I-69 badly."
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on September 04, 2015, 06:41:59 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 02, 2015, 07:17:08 PM
This April 30 article (http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2015/05/01/news/doc55418762b2227051532964.txt) reports that I-269 is still on track to be open to traffic in 2017
Quote from: Grzrd on May 23, 2015, 06:22:11 PM
This Commercial Appeal article (http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/local-news/initial-i269-segment-nearing-completion_28875240) includes two photos of construction of a flyover ramp and reports that TDOT and MDOT are still on track to finish the first non-Tenn 385 segment of I-269 "by sometime this fall"

This TV video (http://www.localmemphis.com/news/local-news/mississippi-officials-tour-new-interstate) reports on a school bus tour of I-269 construction by Mississippi dignitaries, projects an opening to traffic for the MS-TN connection section "by the end of this year", and projects that the "total project should be completed by the fall of 2018":

Quote
Progress of Interstate 269 in DeSoto County, Mississippi is right on schedule.
Senator Roger Wicker joined other elected officials on a school bus tour of the project.
"I grew up riding on a school bus so it's good to be back on it," Wicker said.
It was a who's who among big wigs in DeSoto County as more than 30 elected officials loaded a school bus in Hernando to tour I-269 ....
The project is broken into 8 sections which are all under construction.
One section is expected to be finished by the end of this year.
The total project should be completed by the fall of 2018.

I'm a little disappointed, but not surprised, that completion of the entire project has been pushed back from 2017 to fall of 2018.  At least another three years .....  :-(
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on September 04, 2015, 08:12:27 PM
I think the rest was always supposed to be done in 2018, at least since they started construction a few years ago.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on September 04, 2015, 08:46:35 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on September 04, 2015, 08:12:27 PM
I think the rest was always supposed to be done in 2018, at least since they started construction a few years ago.

Yeah, I guess I was engaging in wishful thinking.  However, this circa 2012 MDOT map presents the possibility that the I-55 to I-22 section of I-269 could be open to traffic in January 2018 (less than 2.5 years; Grzrd engages in more wishful thinking ...  :))*:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fv1qTY.jpg&hash=35e56152a2b88e19ce22907d5175826114e4b3b8)




Quote from: Grzrd on August 19, 2015, 10:26:46 PM
This article (http://www.desototimes.com/news/hernando-mulls-tax-increase/article_5255385e-46c6-11e5-a658-67641a3aaab3.html) reports that Hernando may get the McIngvale Road interchange if (1) a tax levy is passed, and (2) McIngvale is "straightened out" and made into a five-lane

MDOT's Five Year Plan (http://mdot.ms.gov/applications/five_year_plan/Five_Year_Plan.aspx) indicates that MDOT does indeed plan to build the McIngvale Road interchange:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtIThn3x.jpg&hash=7a0a2bcc864fb87fcd9f91932baa3951f485a826)

I suppose that MDOT wants to accelerate this project in order to have it match the opening of the rest of I-269 as closely as possible.

edit

*  This article (http://www.desototimes.com/news/the-path-forward/article_9fab0cd0-5357-11e5-bf60-8701dce565d0.html) also reports on the school bus tour of the I-269 construction:

Quote
DeSoto County, state and federal officials riding a path to economic growth expressed gratification at progress on the projected $665.1 million Interstate 69/269 system in Mississippi.
One 2.2-mile section of the eight-part I-269 project, from Highway 302 to the Tennessee line in Marshall County, is undergoing paving to be completed this summer, while "dirt work" on the other seven is more than 50 percent complete and should be done by late fall, said state officials.
"We expect paving contracts for all the projects to be let next year," said Mississippi Department of Transportation Northern District Commissioner Mike Tagert.
....
Completion of I-269 work is expected in the fall of 2018 ....
At least 11 exits are planned along the DeSoto-Marshall County route ....

In comparing the August 2015 letting dates for paving projects on the MDOT map to Northern District Commissioner Tagert's expectation that paving projects will be let next year, I guess the wishful thinking that the I-55 to I-22 section of I-269 will open to traffic around January 2018 is really more of a pipe dream.

Also, the article's mention of "[a]t least 11 exits" further indicates that the McIngvale Road interchange is definitely in the mix.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on September 05, 2015, 12:14:32 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 04, 2015, 08:46:35 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 19, 2015, 10:26:46 PM
This article (http://www.desototimes.com/news/hernando-mulls-tax-increase/article_5255385e-46c6-11e5-a658-67641a3aaab3.html) reports that Hernando may get the McIngvale Road interchange if (1) a tax levy is passed, and (2) McIngvale is "straightened out" and made into a five-lane
MDOT's Five Year Plan (http://mdot.ms.gov/applications/five_year_plan/Five_Year_Plan.aspx) indicates that MDOT does indeed plan to build the McIngvale Road interchange:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtIThn3x.jpg&hash=7a0a2bcc864fb87fcd9f91932baa3951f485a826)

This article (http://www.desototimes.com/news/road-looks-open-for-mcingvale-exit/article_d5fe9882-5358-11e5-882d-1f64bd433620.html) reports that the McIngvale Road exit "may be just around the corner":

Quote
A long-sought McIngvale interstate exit at Hernando may be just around the corner, said Mississippi Northern District Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert.
"It's possible within the next year" that a state and federal go-ahead could arrive, said Tagert
....
Tagert and U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., cautioned that in this era of an earmarks freeze in Congress that funding isn't certain.
But Tagert said Hernando's efforts to fund improvements on busy two-lane McIngvale will help interchange chances.
"MDOT has made a commitment for the exit if the city will commit to realigning McIngvale Road with Interstate 269," said Hernando Mayor Chip Johnson ....
"The original environmental statement for the area was signed back in 1999, which couldn't have foreseen all the changes in the last 10-15 years," said Tagert.
"We now know there's obviously a need. MDOT agrees with the county and municipalities that such an interchange will relieve pressure," said Tagert on major arteries including Commerce and Church Road to the north in Southaven.
"We're pursuing this with the Federal Highway Administration as we speak," said Tagert.
The state road official said clearing environmental hurdles has taken time, and it's still possible "that something unexpected, like underground water," could pose problems. "But we think it's going to happen."
Wicker also hopes funding can be found. "Six years ago, Congress abolished earmarks, and it's been a mixed blessing, you'd have to say," Wicker said.
It's left decisions such as interchange funding up to agencies, "and we have to go begging for grants. But we're trying to determine needs," Wicker added ....




Quote from: froggie on March 13, 2011, 06:01:25 PM
If I-269 was truly intended for freight/long-distance traffic, they wouldn't have 11 exits along it.  It'd be more along the lines of 6.

The McIngvale Road interchange would be exit number 12. However, the article indicates that even more interchanges may be in line:

Quote
.... the needs don't stop at McIngvale.
Horn Lake Mayor Allen Latimer said, "What I'd also like to see is an interchange on Nail Road and for Starlanding. With all the development going on, this will help Southaven as well as Horn Lake to relieve congestion."

15 seems like a good, round number .........  :awesomeface:
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on September 05, 2015, 12:32:59 AM
Nail Rd and Star Landing Rd intersect I-55/69, not I-269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on October 01, 2015, 01:34:53 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 04, 2015, 08:46:35 PM
this circa 2012 MDOT map presents the possibility that the I-55 to I-22 section of I-269 could be open to traffic in January 2018 ....
In comparing the August 2015 letting dates for paving projects on the MDOT map to Northern District Commissioner Tagert's expectation that paving projects will be let next year, I guess the wishful thinking that the I-55 to I-22 section of I-269 will open to traffic around January 2018 is really more of a pipe dream.

AASHTO has conditionally approved Mississippi's application for the I-269 designation (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2015%20AM%20September%2024%20Chicago%2c%20IL/SCOH%20Report%20from%20Special%20Committee%20on%20US%20Route%20Numbering%20AM2015.pdf), and a map from MDOT's application (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2015%20AM%20September%2024%20Chicago,%20IL/MS%20-%20I%20269.pdf) indicates that the state line section should open this month and that the remainder should open in October, 2018 (p. 4/10 of pdf):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fh21COmV.png&hash=cc581e0fd110b0d2e7f71944b066f66ee73c7bb1)

MDOT's application also contains a description incorporating the eight control points illustrated on the map (p. 8/10 of pdf):

Quote
The Mississippi portion of future Interstate 269, identified as State Route 304, is currently designated as a Principal Arterial facility. The roadway extends northeasterly from the junction of Interstate I-55/I-69/SR 304 (Control Point 1) in DeSoto County, Mississippi for 25.933 miles to the Mississippi/Tennessee State Line in Marshall County. As the route traverses northeastward it intersects the following major roadways: Getwell Road in DeSoto County (Control Point 2), Craft Road in DeSoto County (Control Point 3), State Route 305 in DeSoto County (Control Point 4), US Highway 78/Interstate 22 on the DeSoto County/ Marshall County Line (Control Point 5), State Route 309 in Marshall County (Control Point 6), State Route 302 in Marshall County (Control Point 7) and ends at the Mississippi/Tennessee State Line (Control Point 8).
The entire portion of roadway will meet interstate standards upon completion of construction.




Quote from: lordsutch on September 05, 2015, 12:32:59 AM
Nail Rd and Star Landing Rd intersect I-55/69, not I-269.

Later discussion about possible interchanges at Nail Road and Star Landing Road can be found in the I-69 in MS (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=4783.msg2091405#msg2091405) thread.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on October 01, 2015, 04:42:39 PM
When Interstate 269 is completed in 2018, the designation should stop at Interstate 40, and not continue beyond there until Interstate 69 north of Memphis is built.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TrevorB on October 04, 2015, 11:21:14 AM
So I decided to swing by the MS 302 interchange with I—269 today, since it supposed to be opening soon, and look what I found!

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F04%2F69c1f2bcc6d0a779e45f1e0ab3604f0c.jpg&hash=d7bd7a6823f4d65aa310424fb40a38124eec9ab9)

I believe that is the first uncovered interstate 269 sign in the wild, with the exception of the future signs.

Traffic lights are also going up at the interchange, and I noticed exit signage on mainline 269. Looks like they will hold to their opening date of October 2015, at least to MS 302. South of 302 it is still all grass, not paved at all.

Here is some more pics

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F04%2Ff3baaf102199b10a2bc9674ee9fe8537.jpg&hash=aa2242a5c9255377fccd087a9930199bfaeb4372)

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F04%2F571304a452528a111de01748adb80e13.jpg&hash=dce7ab27eba5e58346a0b8c8ab9b0ea8dfb76a90)




iPhone
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on October 04, 2015, 02:11:05 PM
I find the VMS signs curious along MS 302.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mwb1848 on October 04, 2015, 02:28:12 PM
Wowza. Mississippi's 3rd 3di.

:bigass:

Also, I don't think I fully realized that the MS 304 designation would be fully signed along the whole route.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on October 04, 2015, 03:08:49 PM
Quote from: mwb1848 on October 04, 2015, 02:28:12 PM
Wowza. Mississippi's 3rd 3di.

:bigass:

Also, I don't think I fully realized that the MS 304 designation would be fully signed along the whole route.

And along I-69 too.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on October 13, 2015, 08:14:20 AM
I find it slightly amusing that they're running MS 304 concurrent with I-269...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on October 13, 2015, 11:52:46 AM
Quote from: froggie on October 13, 2015, 08:14:20 AM
I find it slightly amusing that they're running MS 304 concurrent with I-269...
All I can figure is that MDOT decided it wanted a consistent number for Tunica casino traffic - e.g. "Casinos FOLLOW MS 304 WEST." Or the casinos lobbied for it.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on October 19, 2015, 12:47:23 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 01, 2015, 01:34:53 PM
AASHTO has conditionally approved Mississippi's application for the I-269 designation (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2015%20AM%20September%2024%20Chicago%2c%20IL/SCOH%20Report%20from%20Special%20Committee%20on%20US%20Route%20Numbering%20AM2015.pdf), and a map from MDOT's application (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2015%20AM%20September%2024%20Chicago,%20IL/MS%20-%20I%20269.pdf) indicates that the state line section should open this month ... (p. 4/10 of pdf)

This MDOT News Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c%2D924d%2D498c%2Db14e%2Daafec6dc2864&ID=1677&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews%2DReleases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2) announces that the state line ribbon-cutting and grand opening will be Friday, October 23 at 2:30 p.m.:

Quote
Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert and Tennessee Department of Transportation Commissioner John Schroer will join state and local officials from Tennessee and Mississippi for the Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening, Friday, October 23, 2015 at 2:30 p.m.
What:              I-269 Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening
When:             Friday, October 23, 2015 at 2:30 p.m.
Where:            Tennessee / Mississippi State Line


From Tennessee's SR 385 east or west, take the NEW I-269 Junction and follow to the state line.
From Mississippi's MS 302 east to the NEW I-269 North (Cayce Exit) and follow for approximately 2 miles.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on October 19, 2015, 02:05:24 PM
Two new interstates in one week. Gotta be a record for Mississippi at least.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TrevorB on October 19, 2015, 06:29:07 PM
A few photos from today ahead of the official ribbon cutting on Friday.

Looking south from the Wingo Road overpass in Mississippi:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2F1b22c55759f77458f3332143e116952e.jpg&hash=384306ac2b053ecf2ff85343efc8bd018231394c)

Looking north from the same overpass:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2F12002dd5c51c98505dc295c96528d1c2.jpg&hash=6569267f018afd2805d4ae59301e688c0da1b2ab)

A view of 269 near the US 72 junction in Tennessee. This was from some little frontage road:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2F954ee8f04cde57e651382c516380642a.jpg&hash=18e264745c102b5159921c068aae1e5d08a5f2b1)

Mile marker (interesting that they are green, Tennessee usually uses blue):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2F07c5bd9a5a87f6c0c4491be2486170e2.jpg&hash=badc7beac9da97ba4b9f00b6add8e6254da7183a)

Northbound US 72 exit signage (exit 1) with mile marker:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2F9378cbe8556dfa55c24a3e63d723b2ca.jpg&hash=6edbd48840aa1c2ac5887df31e90960a9a4ba888)

Northbound US 72 exit signage (exit 1):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2Faac06a92e80a0ac6f61492c5c5e0abda.jpg&hash=923b3356fd40002f7c03e85f8d2b3c165214fe94)

70 MPH speed limit:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2F43027758b7220b8af8332bbd14143772.jpg&hash=39af9b20e45b9bb55da9ceea434f05406661c9fa)

269 shield in Tennessee (no state name)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2F92cd1bb52f94d354daba0cecbac9fda5.jpg&hash=f6adcc8378fd79c3556bf8ff0af7af3b40431269)

BGSes for Exits 1 and 2:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2F053c60bcc871f10d8bde4abb993dd39e.jpg&hash=4578a82f03c579e6d8c833e5cf1e1248221c961f)

Ramp signage:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2F4d70b942b8c69e2fd5086d76461fe4ac.jpg&hash=0d0d1db24de28cee45c34c52b48449adbaaa6b7f)

Exit 1 sign:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2F47586478abf24b6c162e96de0db43e48.jpg&hash=3a41bb759175a4381fe2b4b4ec056ea1320cc420)

That's all for now! Of course expect more once the road opens later this week.


iPhone
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on October 20, 2015, 12:08:03 AM
Interesting, and thanks for the photos; I guess TDOT has decided that I-269 is sufficiently not-in Shelby County that they don't have to impose the countywide environmental speed limits on it.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on October 20, 2015, 07:07:24 AM
I will have a lot to check out when I go to Memphis next Monday. :D
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rlb2024 on October 20, 2015, 10:38:31 PM
I'm curious why Corinth isn't centered under Collierville on the BGSs -- and why the 1 on the Exit 1 sign is.  Looks funky to me.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ATLRedSoxFan on October 20, 2015, 10:56:38 PM
Judging from the ground installed exit signage by the mile marker, looks like the installation went wrong, and TDOT decided to make it work anyway.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ATLRedSoxFan on October 20, 2015, 11:01:51 PM
Great pics BTW.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on October 25, 2015, 01:04:22 AM
Wikipedia claims TN 385 has been redesignated north of the 385/269 interchange solely as I-269. Can anyone confirm this? TDOT's press materials don't mention it and I haven't seen any pictures, thus it seems to be bogus (or at least wishful thinking) to me.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: CanesFan27 on October 25, 2015, 05:15:13 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on October 20, 2015, 10:56:38 PM
Judging from the ground installed exit signage by the mile marker, looks like the installation went wrong, and TDOT decided to make it work anyway.

Tim Gunn would be proud.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TrevorB on October 25, 2015, 07:17:04 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on October 25, 2015, 01:04:22 AM
Wikipedia claims TN 385 has been redesignated north of the 385/269 interchange solely as I-269. Can anyone confirm this? TDOT's press materials don't mention it and I haven't seen any pictures, thus it seems to be bogus (or at least wishful thinking) to me.

Nope, that's not the case (not yet at least). The only 269 signs in Tennessee are south of the 385/269 junction. They'll probably wait until 269 is completely done.

Although, I have to ask, since I did most of the editing on the 269 Wiki, where did you see that info? I can't find it unless I'm completely overlooking it.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on October 25, 2015, 08:57:07 PM
Quote from: TrevorB on October 25, 2015, 07:17:04 PM
Nope, that's not the case (not yet at least). The only 269 signs in Tennessee are south of the 385/269 junction. They'll probably wait until 269 is completely done.

Although, I have to ask, since I did most of the editing on the 269 Wiki, where did you see that info? I can't find it unless I'm completely overlooking it.

See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tennessee_State_Route_385
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on October 27, 2015, 08:33:32 AM
Quote from: TrevorB on October 25, 2015, 07:17:04 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on October 25, 2015, 01:04:22 AM
Wikipedia claims TN 385 has been redesignated north of the 385/269 interchange solely as I-269. Can anyone confirm this? TDOT's press materials don't mention it and I haven't seen any pictures, thus it seems to be bogus (or at least wishful thinking) to me.

Nope, that's not the case (not yet at least). The only 269 signs in Tennessee are south of the 385/269 junction. They'll probably wait until 269 is completely done.

Although, I have to ask, since I did most of the editing on the 269 Wiki, where did you see that info? I can't find it unless I'm completely overlooking it.

I can second that observation. No mention of I-269 north of TN 385. As a matter of fact. going southbound on TN 385 approaching I-269 the pull through sign just says "Local Traffic".

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fncp3Erd.jpg&hash=1cd87464ef56e0e47017fcb077f31e3f93712cdc)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on October 27, 2015, 11:23:53 AM
That has to be a leading contender for the worst APL sign to date.

As far as the destination legend goes, at least "{I-269} SOUTH To {US 72} EAST Corinth" (or "{I-269} SOUTH To {MS 302} Olive Branch") would make more sense than "Local Traffic."
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on November 02, 2015, 08:31:20 AM
Here are some more pictures from the new I-269. Apologies for the blurriness.

MS 302 westbound approaching I-269:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FMzj9mt5.jpg&hash=e3297920b0acb7ee6d3cb8781293d66111107560)

I-269 SB at MS 302:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FVUq7ziO.jpg&hash=32e0c1d5c298462fd27ef9874826eb3a87586b9a)

VMS along I-269 SB. MDOT went hog wild with VMS signs along I-269 and MS 302:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FS7gRl6O.jpg&hash=3a6101a3b5036dd6973cb84fef6a21a8a425e858)

Milepost along I-269 southbound just south of the Tennessee state line:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FlSk3RbW.jpg&hash=ea0b4dea67a493dd71c042661899aadd1c00e6de)

Crossing into Mississippi along I-269 SB:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FjldRwQB.jpg&hash=9bc80f87e4a2546a7191e7620cf2103a30393282)

I-269 SB approaching US 72. The mileposts in the median were replace with blue ones per typical TDOT fashion:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FvJyjrWt.jpg&hash=1a27416ce098168ed58624e3f63bd1ce4ae62db2)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on November 02, 2015, 02:39:54 PM
Thanks for the photos! That provided some useful info to dump into OSM.

Question: What destination is signed for northbound I-269 at MS 302? I can see some green signs in the distance but can't make them out. (Also, what destinations, if any, are signed for I-269 in both directions at US 72?)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on November 02, 2015, 02:56:58 PM
Collierville is the northbound control city at MS 302.

There is absolutely nothing posted for I-269 at US 72. It is very strange.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TravelingBethelite on November 02, 2015, 09:41:50 PM
Here's a picture I took there about two weeks ago at the spot US 72 meets TN 385/I-269:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fc1.staticflickr.com%2F1%2F628%2F22281850722_7963c4ea13_h.jpg&hash=739e860e0509b28a4e77943ea2c89bd12de0abe8)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on November 03, 2015, 07:02:18 AM
^ That spot technically isn't I-269. It is just TN 385. I-269 crosses US 72 just east of there.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 16, 2015, 06:52:15 PM
The new alignment of Craft Road at its future I-269 interchange opens tomorrow, according to MDOT on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MississippiDOT/photos/a.389579077732072.86933.136373533052629/1027254777297829/?type=3&theater).

Also, here's an aerial photo of the I-269/I-22 interchange (https://www.facebook.com/MississippiDOT/photos/a.389579077732072.86933.136373533052629/1021371811219459/?type=3) I haven't seen before.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on December 17, 2015, 07:12:57 AM
That is an older image of the I-22/I-269 interchange. The bridges are done along I-22, I think.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TrevorB on December 21, 2015, 09:06:08 PM
New aerial image of I-269 construction in DeSoto County from the DeSoto Times-Tribune. (http://www.desototimes.com/news/road-to-the-future/article_37573984-a83d-11e5-ac80-9bca5973dd94.html)

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com%2Fdesototimes.com%2Fcontent%2Ftncms%2Fassets%2Fv3%2Feditorial%2F6%2Fa2%2F6a29b922-a83d-11e5-a2bf-5fc2949f9583%2F567890cf4f0a8.image.jpg%3Fresize%3D1200%252C800&hash=9c32c5e6e289b59131cf5e4108e49862af626b6f)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: msunat97 on December 22, 2015, 10:02:54 AM
Any timing on the connection of I-269 to I-55?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on December 22, 2015, 07:51:58 PM
Quote from: msunat97 on December 22, 2015, 10:02:54 AM
Any timing on the connection of I-269 to I-55?

This October 1, 2015 post (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=1329.msg2097252#msg2097252) contains the most recent estimate that I have seen, October, 2018:

Quote from: Grzrd on October 01, 2015, 01:34:53 PM
... a map from MDOT's application (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2015%20AM%20September%2024%20Chicago,%20IL/MS%20-%20I%20269.pdf) indicates that the state line section should open this month and that the remainder should open in October, 2018 (p. 4/10 of pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fh21COmV.png&hash=cc581e0fd110b0d2e7f71944b066f66ee73c7bb1)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Henry on December 23, 2015, 12:29:53 PM
I have a feeling that I-269 will be completed before its parent route through Memphis is.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on December 23, 2015, 04:45:02 PM
Probably light-years before 69 is completed.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rte66man on December 24, 2015, 10:01:37 AM
I don't get it.  Why is there a 2 year gap between grade, drain and bridge and paving?  Was it planned that way or was this a result of budget shortfalls?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on January 02, 2016, 01:14:47 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on December 16, 2015, 06:52:15 PM
here's an aerial photo of the I-269/I-22 interchange (https://www.facebook.com/MississippiDOT/photos/a.389579077732072.86933.136373533052629/1021371811219459/?type=3) I haven't seen before.
Quote from: codyg1985 on December 17, 2015, 07:12:57 AM
That is an older image of the I-22/I-269 interchange. The bridges are done along I-22, I think.
Quote from: TrevorB on December 21, 2015, 09:06:08 PM
New aerial image of I-269 construction in DeSoto County from the DeSoto Times-Tribune. (http://www.desototimes.com/news/road-to-the-future/article_37573984-a83d-11e5-ac80-9bca5973dd94.html)

This December 30 article (http://www.desototimes.com/news/year-of-progress-in/article_6e342b46-af50-11e5-8bfd-b7a62e158e2f.html) includes a photograph of an aerial view of the I-22/I-269 interchange that was probably taken close to the time as the photograph posted by TrevorB. Here is a snip from the photo:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FzFPW2ud.jpg&hash=f37b9b2ffaf0f568016e25c795d5a3e5047c7297)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on January 02, 2016, 09:28:36 AM
It looks like the ramps from WB I-22 to NB I-269 and from SB I-269 to WB I-22 are missing.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: msunat97 on January 05, 2016, 09:37:23 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on January 02, 2016, 09:28:36 AM
It looks like the ramps from WB I-22 to NB I-269 and from SB I-269 to WB I-22 are missing.

I noticed the same thing on my drive back through there after Thanksgiving.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on January 13, 2016, 02:32:21 PM
Quote from: TrevorB on October 19, 2015, 06:29:07 PM
269 shield in Tennessee (no state name)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimages.tapatalk-cdn.com%2F15%2F10%2F19%2F92cd1bb52f94d354daba0cecbac9fda5.jpg&hash=f6adcc8378fd79c3556bf8ff0af7af3b40431269)

TDOT has announced (https://www.tn.gov/tdot/news/23156) the posting of its 2016 Official Transportation Map (http://www.tn.gov/tdot/topic/maps-state).  Is something missing?

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtmcZufB.png&hash=4799a255c51e34c0fa6cc5bd5420731373210ded)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on January 13, 2016, 04:25:43 PM
Have any portions of Tennessee State Highway 385 gotten Interstate 269 shields? And I'm not counting "Future" signs.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on January 13, 2016, 05:17:55 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on January 13, 2016, 04:25:43 PM
Have any portions of Tennessee State Highway 385 gotten Interstate 269 shields? And I'm not counting "Future" signs.

As of January 1, no.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on January 14, 2016, 12:39:22 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 13, 2016, 02:32:21 PM
TDOT has announced (https://www.tn.gov/tdot/news/23156) the posting of its 2016 Official Transportation Map (http://www.tn.gov/tdot/topic/maps-state).
Quote from: lordsutch on January 13, 2016, 05:17:55 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on January 13, 2016, 04:25:43 PM
Have any portions of Tennessee State Highway 385 gotten Interstate 269 shields? And I'm not counting "Future" signs.
As of January 1, no.

The above-linked TDOT announcement seems to indicate that the TN 385 section of I-269 will not be signed until Mississippi completes its section of I-269:

Quote
I-269 is open to traffic in Tennessee and will be designated as an interstate when Mississippi completes their section.




Quote from: Grzrd on January 13, 2016, 02:32:21 PM
Is something missing?
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtmcZufB.png&hash=4799a255c51e34c0fa6cc5bd5420731373210ded)

Above said, the map should show the new terrain section of I-269 that connects TN 385 to MS 302.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on January 14, 2016, 04:49:24 PM
That is scheduled for 2018, so that's just two more years. Oh, and as I said before, I don't think any Interstate 269 signs should be installed north of Interstate 40, since Interstate 69 from Memphis north to Interstate 155 won't even be started, let alone completed for many years to come.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: CtrlAltDel on January 14, 2016, 06:32:07 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on December 23, 2015, 04:45:02 PM
Probably light-years before 69 is completed.

A light-year of road is quite a bit. The current Interstate system is less than a hundred millionth of that distance.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Rothman on January 15, 2016, 08:33:20 AM
Quote from: CtrlAltDel on January 14, 2016, 06:32:07 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on December 23, 2015, 04:45:02 PM
Probably light-years before 69 is completed.

A light-year of road is quite a bit. The current Interstate system is less than a hundred millionth of that distance.

Heh...a year is still a year...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on January 15, 2016, 05:42:26 PM
I probably should have said "decades" instead of light years. In any event, it will probably be a long time before Interstate 69 is built between Memphis and Interstate 155.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on January 18, 2016, 01:34:10 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 14, 2016, 12:39:22 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on January 13, 2016, 02:32:21 PM
TDOT has announced (https://www.tn.gov/tdot/news/23156) the posting of its 2016 Official Transportation Map (http://www.tn.gov/tdot/topic/maps-state).
Is something missing?
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtmcZufB.png&hash=4799a255c51e34c0fa6cc5bd5420731373210ded)
... the map should show the new terrain section of I-269 that connects TN 385 to MS 302.

On the other side of the state line, MDOT's 2016 Official Highway Map (http://mdot.ms.gov/documents/planning/Maps/State%20Highway%20Maps/Statewide%20Map%20-%20Front%20Side.pdf) does show the new terrain section of I-269 (as well as I-22):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F82Lt0GJ.png&hash=1435d30dc2ed740a9e2a5caa27b9bff5f4d0d12d)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: qguy on January 20, 2016, 06:13:22 AM
Quote from: Rothman on January 15, 2016, 08:33:20 AM
Quote from: CtrlAltDel on January 14, 2016, 06:32:07 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on December 23, 2015, 04:45:02 PM
Probably light-years before 69 is completed.

A light-year of road is quite a bit. The current Interstate system is less than a hundred millionth of that distance.

Heh...a year is still a year...

I teach middle school earth & space science (my classroom is a planetarium--it's pretty cool). If one of my students said this, I'd know they were going to get something wrong on the next test.

A light-year is a unit of distance, not time. It's the distance that light travels in a year. (Considering that light travels approximately 186,000 feet per second, that's far indeed--about 5.8 trillion miles.)

Anyhoo, doesn't really matter as far as this thread goes, but it's a good excuse to rattle off some neato stuff.  :biggrin:
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: kurumi on January 20, 2016, 11:31:51 AM
Quote from: qguy on January 20, 2016, 06:13:22 AM
Quote from: Rothman on January 15, 2016, 08:33:20 AM
Quote from: CtrlAltDel on January 14, 2016, 06:32:07 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on December 23, 2015, 04:45:02 PM
Probably light-years before 69 is completed.

A light-year of road is quite a bit. The current Interstate system is less than a hundred millionth of that distance.

Heh...a year is still a year...

I teach middle school earth & space science (my classroom is a planetarium--it's pretty cool). If one of my students said this, I'd know they were going to get something wrong on the next test.

A light-year is a unit of distance, not time. It's the distance that light travels in a year. (Considering that light travels approximately 186,000 feet per second, that's far indeed--about 5.8 trillion miles.)

Anyhoo, doesn't really matter as far as this thread goes, but it's a good excuse to rattle off some neato stuff.  :biggrin:

I know a guy who did the Kessel Run in 14 parsecs :-)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: noelbotevera on January 20, 2016, 04:50:04 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on January 15, 2016, 05:42:26 PM
I probably should have said "billions of years" instead of light years. In any event, it will probably be a long time before Interstate 69 is built between Memphis and Interstate 155.
FTFY
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TravelingBethelite on January 20, 2016, 05:14:34 PM
Quote from: kurumi on January 20, 2016, 11:31:51 AM
Quote from: qguy on January 20, 2016, 06:13:22 AM
Quote from: Rothman on January 15, 2016, 08:33:20 AM
Quote from: CtrlAltDel on January 14, 2016, 06:32:07 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on December 23, 2015, 04:45:02 PM
Probably light-years before 69 is completed.

A light-year of road is quite a bit. The current Interstate system is less than a hundred millionth of that distance.

Heh...a year is still a year...

I teach middle school earth & space science (my classroom is a planetarium--it's pretty cool). If one of my students said this, I'd know they were going to get something wrong on the next test.

A light-year is a unit of distance, not time. It's the distance that light travels in a year. (Considering that light travels approximately 186,000 feet per second, that's far indeed--about 5.8 trillion miles.)

Anyhoo, doesn't really matter as far as this thread goes, but it's a good excuse to rattle off some neato stuff.  :biggrin:

I know a guy who did the Kessel Run in 12 parsecs :-)

Also FTFY.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on January 20, 2016, 06:01:13 PM
All of SIU 8 being done in the next couple of decades is unrealistic, but I think the Millington to Covington section has a good chance of being out to contract as soon as TDOT is done with SIU 7 if they can ever get the FEIS done.

My guess is that TDOT will want to designate I-269 over the whole route, rather than holding off north of I-40; US 51 is a legal interim terminus for an Interstate designation, and having two disconnected routes with the same number creates headaches for incident management and route inventory purposes, especially when they're in the same county.

I can see the argument for holding off the redesignation for now and keeping it as stealthy as possible, since I-40 west traffic might think I-269 would get them to I-69 south of Memphis today and end up very confused in the middle of nowhere in Marshall County, nowhere near any casinos or anything else to speak of. But when 2018 rolls around the odds of similar motorist confusion are low since there's no logical reason for long-distance traffic to take I-40 west to (nonexistent) I-69 north (anyone headed to Dyersburg would have cut over on US 412), so waiting longer doesn't make a lot of sense.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on February 29, 2016, 12:09:16 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 01, 2015, 01:34:53 PM
AASHTO has conditionally approved Mississippi's application for the I-269 designation (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2015%20AM%20September%2024%20Chicago%2c%20IL/SCOH%20Report%20from%20Special%20Committee%20on%20US%20Route%20Numbering%20AM2015.pdf), and a map from MDOT's application (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2015%20AM%20September%2024%20Chicago,%20IL/MS%20-%20I%20269.pdf) indicates that the state line section should open this month and that the remainder should open in October, 2018 (p. 4/10 of pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fh21COmV.png&hash=cc581e0fd110b0d2e7f71944b066f66ee73c7bb1)

MDOT's March 22 Lettings page (http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=March%2022,%202016) includes a two-month notice for paving I-269 from MS 305 to MS 302 in the April 26 letting:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtKNJxi1.png&hash=7fd39f491e9fb0828e7be45971010486f9b6830d)

The Notice indicates that the completion date will be "Contractor Determined". It will be interesting to see how close that date will be to October 2018, the current projected completion date.




Quote from: Grzrd on September 04, 2015, 08:46:35 PM
MDOT's Five Year Plan (http://mdot.ms.gov/applications/five_year_plan/Five_Year_Plan.aspx) indicates that MDOT does indeed plan to build the McIngvale Road interchange:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtIThn3x.jpg&hash=7a0a2bcc864fb87fcd9f91932baa3951f485a826)

I do not know whether the scheduled 2018 construction of the McIngvale Road interchange will have an impact on the timing of the I-269 paving project from I-55 to MS 305.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on March 12, 2016, 05:44:19 PM
I had a chance to clinch the signed portion of I-269 this afternoon, and I can contribute a few photos to 269 lore:

Here's the view from EB TN385 as you approach I-269. 
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.n1en.org%2FLists%2FPhotos%2FDOT_In_Denial.png&hash=ba47711716bfa8fd609cda5a6eb6ed54836ab56a)

On I-269 SB, approaching US 72.  (Stateless 269 trailblazer plus a TMM.)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.n1en.org%2FLists%2FPhotos%2FExit_1.png&hash=ff7478fa9acc88d11ee3cebd5f972f99bc549666)

And here's the current southern terminus:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.n1en.org%2FLists%2FPhotos%2FSouthern_Terminus.png&hash=c7a282649d910f196faedec52ff847c29bb5880e)

Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on May 05, 2016, 01:23:38 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on January 14, 2016, 04:49:24 PM
That is scheduled for 2018, so that's just two more years. Oh, and as I said before, I don't think any Interstate 269 signs should be installed north of Interstate 40, since Interstate 69 from Memphis north to Interstate 155 won't even be started, let alone completed for many years to come.

The AASHTO Special Committee on Route Numbering's May 24 Agenda (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2016%20SM%20Des%20Moines%2c%20IA/Agenda%20and%20List%20of%20Applications%20SM-2016.pdf) includes consideration of TDOT's application for a 19.176 mile extension of I-269 to I-40:

Quote
The route will begin at the northern terminus of I-269 at the Mississippi / Tennessee State line. The route will extend I-269 to Interstate 40 in Memphis, Tennessee. The existing facility is a 4 lane divided route with full access control. The route will extend I-269 from south to north. Memphis is the focal point city. The route segment is 19.176 miles long. The route will end at existing Interstate 40 in Memphis.

edit

AASHTO's Interstate Routes Binder (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2016%20SM%20Des%20Moines%2c%20IA/Interstate_Routes_Binder.pdf) contains the map that TDOT included with its application (p. 46/73 of pdf):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FyoSSL23.png&hash=febe7edf6e9b6e5d8707a8e8e436f5b06187f664)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rte66man on May 20, 2016, 08:45:45 AM
Was in and around Memphis earlier this week:

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7642/26854759900_f05413b968.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/GV4EvJ)

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7051/26854760930_4f6364c06c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/GV4EPu)

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7392/27129284085_3628ef5611.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/HkjEZk)

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7208/27129285035_1c1a435490.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/HkjFgH)

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7028/27034318192_f04a1ba9f3.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/HbVWWm)


Not on 269, but way cool anyway:
(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7584/26854763550_6973a8fe21.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/GV4FAE)DSC_0210 (https://flic.kr/p/GV4FAE) by rte66man (https://www.flickr.com/photos/rte66man/), on Flickr

VERY disappointed that none of the BGS's had 269 markers.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TrevorB on May 20, 2016, 01:26:33 PM
As far as I know, no BGS has 269 on it. There are 269 trailblazers on a small stretch from Collierville to the state line and then on into MS. TN has just applied to officially designate a large chunk of 269, so hopefully we will see those soon.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on May 20, 2016, 04:22:34 PM
I'm glad Interstate 269 will stop at Interstate 40. It should not go beyond until it officially connects with Interstate 69 north of Memphis. When that will happen is anyone's guess.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on June 03, 2016, 03:02:30 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 29, 2016, 12:09:16 PM
MDOT's March 22 Lettings page (http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=March%2022,%202016) includes a two-month notice for paving I-269 from MS 305 to MS 302 in the April 26 letting

The I-269 paving project was not included in the April 26 letting; however, this June 3 MDOT News Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=1810&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2) announces that the final piece of Mississippi's I-269 dirt work should be completed in June, 2016, the two separate paving projects for the remainder of I-269 will be let later this summer, and the paving projects are expected to be completed by Fall 2018:

Quote
Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall Counties
Construction of the Interstate 269 project continues and is on schedule in North Mississippi. The Interstate 269 project is the largest active MDOT construction project in the state. Construction is divided into eight individual sections, and dirt work for all sections except one has been completed.
"Dirt work for the remaining section, from Station 240+00 to Station 525+00, is expected to be completed by in June 2016
,"  said MDOT District Two Engineer Mitch Turner. "Once dirt work for all sections has been completed, MDOT has two separate paving projects that will be let later this summer, and we anticipate these paving projects to last until fall 2018." ....




Quote from: Grzrd on May 05, 2016, 01:23:38 PM
AASHTO's Interstate Routes Binder (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2016%20SM%20Des%20Moines%2c%20IA/Interstate_Routes_Binder.pdf) contains the map that TDOT included with its application (p. 46/73 of pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FyoSSL23.png&hash=febe7edf6e9b6e5d8707a8e8e436f5b06187f664)
Quote from: froggie on May 25, 2016, 08:47:44 PM
If one digs through the AASHTO app, the meeting minutes are now online (not yet on the route committee's website).  Most requests were approved.
(above quote from May 2016 AASHTO SCOURN Meeting (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=17917.msg2147130#msg2147130) thread)

In case anyone missed the announcement, I-269 in Tennessee was among the approved requests, and AASHTO now has meeting minutes on the website (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2016%20SM%20Des%20Moines%2c%20IA/USRN%20Meeting%20Minutes%20May25%2c2016.pdf) that reflect the I-269 approval (p. 9/10 of pdf):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_03_06_16_2_59_00.png)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on June 12, 2016, 06:24:58 PM
Does anyone know when the section of 269 west from 78 to I-55. Will open? Taking state highway 302 to get to I-55 is a pain in the #### to get through due to all the red lights and no proper urban planning while they continue to build strip malls and big box retail stores with no thought of traffic solutions for the sprawl...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mvak36 on June 12, 2016, 07:48:56 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on June 12, 2016, 06:24:58 PM
Does anyone know when the section of 269 west from 78 to I-55. Will open? Taking state highway 302 to get to I-55 is a pain in the #### to get through due to all the red lights and no proper urban planning while they continue to build strip malls and big box retail stores with no thought of traffic solutions for the sprawl...

I thought I read somewhere that it will all be done in 2018.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: BullRebel95 on June 12, 2016, 11:37:27 PM
QuoteInterstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall Counties

Construction of the Interstate 269 project continues and is on schedule in North Mississippi. The Interstate 269 project is the largest active MDOT construction project in the state. Construction is divided into eight individual sections, and dirt work for all sections except one has been completed.

"Dirt work for the remaining section, from Station 240+00 to Station 525+00, is expected to be completed by in June 2016,"  said MDOT District Two Engineer Mitch Turner. "Once dirt work for all sections has been completed, MDOT has two separate paving projects that will be let later this summer, and we anticipate these paving projects to last until fall 2018."

According to MDOT, it looks as if it will be around fall of 2018. Supposedly October 2018 according to this map graphic.

Quote from: Grzrd on February 29, 2016, 12:09:16 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 01, 2015, 01:34:53 PM
AASHTO has conditionally approved Mississippi's application for the I-269 designation (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2015%20AM%20September%2024%20Chicago%2c%20IL/SCOH%20Report%20from%20Special%20Committee%20on%20US%20Route%20Numbering%20AM2015.pdf), and a map from MDOT's application (http://route.transportation.org/Documents/2015%20AM%20September%2024%20Chicago,%20IL/MS%20-%20I%20269.pdf) indicates that the state line section should open this month and that the remainder should open in October, 2018 (p. 4/10 of pdf):
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2Fh21COmV.png&hash=cc581e0fd110b0d2e7f71944b066f66ee73c7bb1)

MDOT's March 22 Lettings page (http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=March%2022,%202016) includes a two-month notice for paving I-269 from MS 305 to MS 302 in the April 26 letting:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtKNJxi1.png&hash=7fd39f491e9fb0828e7be45971010486f9b6830d)

The Notice indicates that the completion date will be "Contractor Determined". It will be interesting to see how close that date will be to October 2018, the current projected completion date.




Quote from: Grzrd on September 04, 2015, 08:46:35 PM
MDOT's Five Year Plan (http://mdot.ms.gov/applications/five_year_plan/Five_Year_Plan.aspx) indicates that MDOT does indeed plan to build the McIngvale Road interchange:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FtIThn3x.jpg&hash=7a0a2bcc864fb87fcd9f91932baa3951f485a826)

I do not know whether the scheduled 2018 construction of the McIngvale Road interchange will have an impact on the timing of the I-269 paving project from I-55 to MS 305.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TrevorB on July 06, 2016, 09:44:26 PM
Quote from: rte66man on May 20, 2016, 08:45:45 AM
Was in and around Memphis earlier this week:

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7642/26854759900_f05413b968.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/GV4EvJ)

Not sure if it was just a coincidence, but the 385 shield was missing from this sign as of Thursday.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on July 12, 2016, 07:11:06 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on June 03, 2016, 03:02:30 PM
this June 3 MDOT News Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=1810&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2):
Quote
Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall Counties
.... we anticipate these paving projects to last until fall 2018."  ....

One down ... MDOT has awarded a contract (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20160628/LETDOCS/20160628BidAwards.pdf), subject to FHWA concurrence, for the MS 302 TO MS 305 paving contract (p. 2/3 of pdf):

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2F3CXCLDw.jpg&hash=5c5c7aef0369e690bae83b2723632f64a2e620ae)




And one to go ... MDOT has posted a July 26 bidding (http://mdot.ms.gov/Applications/BidSystem/lettingInfo.aspx?r=0&date=July%2026,%202016) for the MS 305 to I-55 paving contract:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi.imgur.com%2FENsU70v.jpg&hash=6151f12a27e656d2cbf63986e2d93e9f2e671cc8)

Assuming that the second contract is awarded, we will wait and see how close the contractors can come to the Fall/October 2018 estimated date.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: TrevorB on July 12, 2016, 09:17:19 PM
Did some digging and found some I-269 MDOT signage plans (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20160628/ADDENDUMS/102556306_1.pdf).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on July 12, 2016, 11:28:36 PM
Quote from: TrevorB on July 12, 2016, 09:17:19 PM
Did some digging and found some I-269 MDOT signage plans (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20160628/ADDENDUMS/102556306_1.pdf).

Interesting. If nothing else it verifies that the I-22 interchange is supposed to be a complete interchange (so who knows what happened with the grading...).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mvak36 on July 13, 2016, 10:01:09 AM
Stupid question. Does it really take two years to pave that whole stretch? I figured that since it's already graded and since they don't have to deal with any traffic that they can get it done in maybe a year.

I guess my next question is what all goes into a paving contract? Is it just laying down concrete/asphalt, etc? Or is there more involved?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on July 13, 2016, 01:32:28 PM
With MDOT, there is usually more involved, including laying down a base and subbase.  Grading projects usually do not include the subbase or base.  MDOT paving projects also deal with the other things towards the end:  signage, erosion control, traffic control, sometimes ramps (ramps are not always done under the grading project).  Sometimes regrading is also needed due to settling, especially on projects that involved embankments or fill.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on August 06, 2016, 06:49:41 PM
MDOT has the next pavement project for I-269 (from I-55 to MS 305) coming up in this month's letting. http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Contract%20Administration/BidSystems/Pages/letting%20calendar.aspx
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on August 20, 2016, 09:22:08 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on July 12, 2016, 11:28:36 PM
Quote from: TrevorB on July 12, 2016, 09:17:19 PM
Did some digging and found some I-269 MDOT signage plans (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20160628/ADDENDUMS/102556306_1.pdf).
Interesting. If nothing else it verifies that the I-22 interchange is supposed to be a complete interchange (so who knows what happened with the grading...).

Google Maps has updated its imagery in the Memphis area and the "missing" ramps are missing no more (https://www.google.com/maps/@34.8785964,-89.7248402,852m/data=!3m1!1e3).*

*Although, at second glance, how to get from WB I-269 to NB I-22 and from NB I-22 to EB I-269?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: wdcrft63 on August 20, 2016, 04:44:09 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 20, 2016, 09:22:08 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on July 12, 2016, 11:28:36 PM
Quote from: TrevorB on July 12, 2016, 09:17:19 PM
Did some digging and found some I-269 MDOT signage plans (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20160628/ADDENDUMS/102556306_1.pdf).
Interesting. If nothing else it verifies that the I-22 interchange is supposed to be a complete interchange (so who knows what happened with the grading...).

Google Maps has updated its imagery in the Memphis area and the "missing" ramps are missing no more (https://www.google.com/maps/@34.8785964,-89.7248402,852m/data=!3m1!1e3).*

*Although, at second glance, how to get from WB I-269 to NB I-22 and from NB I-22 to EB I-269?
Very strange; the plans clearly include these ramps, so where are they?

Various folks in this forum have called for routing I-22 concurrent with I-269 to reach I-55/I-69. This design rules that out, since it would require a high speed flyover from I-22 WB to I-269 WB.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on August 20, 2016, 07:03:09 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on August 20, 2016, 04:44:09 PM
Various folks in this forum have called for routing I-22 concurrent with I-269 to reach I-55/I-69. This design rules that out, since it would require a high speed flyover from I-22 WB to I-269 WB.
Just like there's a flyover taking I-69 north onto I-55 north. Oh wait.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Anthony_JK on August 20, 2016, 11:47:10 PM
Quote from: NE2 on August 20, 2016, 07:03:09 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on August 20, 2016, 04:44:09 PM
Various folks in this forum have called for routing I-22 concurrent with I-269 to reach I-55/I-69. This design rules that out, since it would require a high speed flyover from I-22 WB to I-269 WB.
Just like there's a flyover taking I-69 north onto I-55 north. Oh wait.

There actually should be, IMO. A one-lane loop ramp is no way to carry a major Interstate corridor.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on August 21, 2016, 01:03:20 AM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on August 20, 2016, 11:47:10 PM
Quote from: NE2 on August 20, 2016, 07:03:09 PM
Just like there's a flyover taking I-69 north onto I-55 north. Oh wait.

There actually should be, IMO. A one-lane loop ramp is no way to carry a major Interstate corridor.
I-69 between Shreveport and Memphis? A major Interstate corridor? Ha.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on August 21, 2016, 02:11:56 AM
Yeah, it's not like the world's second largest cargo airport is at one end of that route or anything.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: amroad17 on August 21, 2016, 03:22:31 AM
It looks like those two ramps have not yet been graded.  If you look at the C-D bridges north of I-22/US 78, they both begin to "flare out" before the ground area.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on August 21, 2016, 03:59:43 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on August 21, 2016, 02:11:56 AM
Yeah, it's not like the world's second largest cargo airport is at one end of that route or anything.
And there will be soooo much cargo on the twisty indirect I-69 across Arkansas.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Anthony_JK on August 21, 2016, 07:08:21 AM
Quote from: NE2 on August 21, 2016, 01:03:20 AM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on August 20, 2016, 11:47:10 PM
Quote from: NE2 on August 20, 2016, 07:03:09 PM
Just like there's a flyover taking I-69 north onto I-55 north. Oh wait.
There actually should be, IMO. A one-lane loop ramp is no way to carry a major Interstate corridor.
I-69 between Shreveport and Memphis? A major Interstate corridor? Ha.


I-69 between Shreveport and Memphis? Probably not. I-69 between Houston/South Texas and Indy? Definitely.

Either build the flyovers or shift I-69 to I-269/TN 385. Oh, wait, isn't that what you advocate for all major city Interstates to go around cities?

The point remains, though, that a one-lane loop ramp isn't the most desirable movement for TOTSO's. When/if I-69 is actually competed between Houston and Memphis, that needs to be corrected.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on August 21, 2016, 08:03:57 AM
The need for anything like that is so far down the road (pun intended) that there's no harm in them building what they did for the current and near-future term (likely for the next 20-30 years, for that matter).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rickmastfan67 on August 21, 2016, 11:14:53 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 20, 2016, 09:22:08 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on July 12, 2016, 11:28:36 PM
Quote from: TrevorB on July 12, 2016, 09:17:19 PM
Did some digging and found some I-269 MDOT signage plans (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20160628/ADDENDUMS/102556306_1.pdf).
Interesting. If nothing else it verifies that the I-22 interchange is supposed to be a complete interchange (so who knows what happened with the grading...).

Google Maps has updated its imagery in the Memphis area and the "missing" ramps are missing no more (https://www.google.com/maps/@34.8785964,-89.7248402,852m/data=!3m1!1e3).*

*Although, at second glance, how to get from WB I-269 to NB I-22 and from NB I-22 to EB I-269?

Maybe they are expecting people to do a triple loop there till they decide to do the rest of the grading? LOL.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on August 21, 2016, 01:27:54 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on August 20, 2016, 04:44:09 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 20, 2016, 09:22:08 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on July 12, 2016, 11:28:36 PM
Quote from: TrevorB on July 12, 2016, 09:17:19 PM
Did some digging and found some I-269 MDOT signage plans (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20160628/ADDENDUMS/102556306_1.pdf).
Interesting. If nothing else it verifies that the I-22 interchange is supposed to be a complete interchange (so who knows what happened with the grading...).

Google Maps has updated its imagery in the Memphis area and the "missing" ramps are missing no more (https://www.google.com/maps/@34.8785964,-89.7248402,852m/data=!3m1!1e3).*

*Although, at second glance, how to get from WB I-269 to NB I-22 and from NB I-22 to EB I-269?
Very strange; the plans clearly include these ramps, so where are they?

Various folks in this forum have called for routing I-22 concurrent with I-269 to reach I-55/I-69. This design rules that out, since it would require a high speed flyover from I-22 WB to I-269 WB.

The signage plans posted upthread indicate that these ramps will be in place when the road opens, so I guess the remaining grading will take place in the paving contract. The bridges for the C/D roads that cross MS 178 and the BNSF railroad do indicate where those missing ramps would tie into the C/D roads.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on August 27, 2016, 08:58:45 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on February 29, 2016, 12:09:16 PM
The Notice indicates that the completion date will be "Contractor Determined". It will be interesting to see how close that date will be to October 2018, the current projected completion date.

This Aug. 24 MDOT News Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=1864&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2) still projects Fall 2018 as the date when I-269 in Mississippi will be open to traffic:

Quote
·         Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall Counties
Construction of the Interstate 269 project continues and is on schedule in North Mississippi. The Interstate 269 project is the largest active MDOT construction project in the state. Dirt and bridge work for the entire Interstate 269 corridor has been completed. The next phase of the project involves two separate paving projects, the largest of which has been let to contract, and work has already begun. The second paving project is scheduled to be let in September. MDOT expects Interstate to be ready for traffic in the fall of 2018.
The first section of Interstate 269, from Mississippi 302 to the Tennessee state line in Marshall County, was opened to traffic on October 23, 2015.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on August 27, 2016, 11:33:02 AM
Quote from: amroad17 on August 21, 2016, 03:22:31 AM
It looks like those two ramps have not yet been graded.  If you look at the C-D bridges north of I-22/US 78, they both begin to "flare out" before the ground area.

When I drove through there in early July, it looked like all the grading was complete for a cloverleaf with C/D roads.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on August 29, 2016, 09:34:51 AM
I know that paving contracts have been let, but have they started the final grading and paving of any portion of I-269 from I-55 to the completed section?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on August 29, 2016, 12:42:18 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on August 29, 2016, 09:34:51 AM
I know that paving contracts have been let, but have they started the final grading and paving of any portion of I-269 from I-55 to the completed section?

All of the grading and bridges (with the exception of a few ramps at the I-22/269 interchange) are finished along I-269 in Mississippi.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on August 29, 2016, 04:44:19 PM
Interstate 269 will likely be completes long before any more of 69 is built in Mississippi and/or Tennessee (between Memphis and Interstate 155, that is).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on September 13, 2016, 09:02:00 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on August 06, 2016, 06:49:41 PM
MDOT has the next pavement project for I-269 (from I-55 to MS 305) coming up in this month's letting. http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Contract%20Administration/BidSystems/Pages/letting%20calendar.aspx
Quote from: Grzrd on August 27, 2016, 08:58:45 AM
This Aug. 24 MDOT News Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=1864&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2)
Quote
·         Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall Counties
The second paving project is scheduled to be let in September. MDOT expects Interstate to be ready for traffic in the fall of 2018.

MDOT's Sept. 13 Award Lettings page (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20160823/LETDOCS/20160823BidAwards.pdf) includes the second and final I-269 paving project from MS 305 to I-55:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_13_09_16_8_55_29.jpeg)

Still on schedule.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on November 01, 2016, 10:57:52 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 13, 2016, 09:02:00 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on August 06, 2016, 06:49:41 PM
MDOT has the next pavement project for I-269 (from I-55 to MS 305) coming up in this month's letting. http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Contract%20Administration/BidSystems/Pages/letting%20calendar.aspx
Quote from: Grzrd on August 27, 2016, 08:58:45 AM
This Aug. 24 MDOT News Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=1864&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2)
Quote
·         Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall Counties
The second paving project is scheduled to be let in September. MDOT expects Interstate to be ready for traffic in the fall of 2018.

MDOT's Sept. 13 Award Lettings page (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20160823/LETDOCS/20160823BidAwards.pdf) includes the second and final I-269 paving project from MS 305 to I-55:

(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_13_09_16_8_55_29.jpeg)

Still on schedule.
Are you saying they are going to open that up next?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on November 01, 2016, 11:57:37 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on November 01, 2016, 10:57:52 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 13, 2016, 09:02:00 PM
MDOT's Sept. 13 Award Lettings page (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20160823/LETDOCS/20160823BidAwards.pdf) includes the second and final I-269 paving project from MS 305 to I-55:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_13_09_16_8_55_29.jpeg)
Still on schedule.
Are you saying they are going to open that up next?

My understanding is that the current plan is to open the MS 302 to MS 305 section and the MS 305 to I-55 section at the same time, which is estimated to be Fall 2018.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on November 01, 2016, 03:17:22 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on November 01, 2016, 11:57:37 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on November 01, 2016, 10:57:52 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on September 13, 2016, 09:02:00 PM
MDOT's Sept. 13 Award Lettings page (http://mdot.ms.gov/bidsystem_data/20160823/LETDOCS/20160823BidAwards.pdf) includes the second and final I-269 paving project from MS 305 to I-55:
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/gallery/1615_13_09_16_8_55_29.jpeg)
Still on schedule.
Are you saying they are going to open that up next?

My understanding is that the current plan is to open the MS 302 to MS 305 section and the MS 305 to I-55 section at the same time, which is estimated to be Fall 2018.
Oh cool! I'm wondering if TDOT will remove SR 385 north of I-40, because I-269 doesn't end at another Interstate, but then there's the south end.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 01, 2016, 04:40:16 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on November 01, 2016, 03:17:22 PM
Oh cool! I'm wondering if TDOT will remove SR 385 north of I-40, because I-269 doesn't end at another Interstate, but then there's the south end.

I-269 was authorized (AASHTO Spring 2016 meeting) only as far north as I-40, so it's likely TN 385 from I-40 to US 51 will stay where it is for the time being.  AFAIK, I-269 and TN 385 will be co-signed over their multiplex. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on November 01, 2016, 05:17:27 PM
That makes sense. Interstate 269 should not be extended along the rest of TN 385 until it connects with the yet-to-be-constructed segment of Interstate 69 between Memphis and Interstate 155.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rte66man on November 01, 2016, 09:41:03 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on November 01, 2016, 05:17:27 PM
That makes sense. Interstate 269 should not be extended along the rest of TN 385 unless it connects with the highly-unlikely-to-be-constructed segment of Interstate 69 between Memphis and Interstate 155.

FTFY
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on November 01, 2016, 09:44:45 PM
I'm curious to know what is going on, in the northern area (north of IH 40) of the development of 269? Has anyone heard anything since Kentucky got the OK to proceed with their development of I-69. Isn't the area around Millington protected because of the Naval base? I only go to that area once a year now...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on November 02, 2016, 12:58:13 AM
AFAIK TDOT didn't ask for the designation to be extended to US 51, although presumably it would be legal (but someone might well have complained that there's no interstate yet at the far end).

In the medium to long term, the US 51 corridor through Tipton County is becoming increasingly developed so TDOT will probably face pressure to build I-69 from I-40 to the Hatchie River north of Covington, much as TN 385 was built to relieve US 72 through Collierville and Germantown in the 1990s. North of there (except in Ripley and around Dyersburg) the existing road is probably sufficient absent either further growth or a need to relieve I-55.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on November 02, 2016, 07:49:28 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on November 01, 2016, 09:44:45 PM
I'm curious to know what is going on, in the northern area (north of IH 40) of the development of 269? Has anyone heard anything since Kentucky got the OK to proceed with their development of I-69. Isn't the area around Millington protected because of the Naval base? I only go to that area once a year now...

Most of the work TDOT is actively pursuing at this time is between I-155 and the Kentucky state line.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on November 02, 2016, 08:33:04 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on November 01, 2016, 09:44:45 PM
I'm curious to know what is going on, in the northern area (north of IH 40) of the development of 269? Has anyone heard anything since Kentucky got the OK to proceed with their development of I-69. Isn't the area around Millington protected because of the Naval base? I only go to that area once a year now...
All of I-269 in development is connecting MS 302 and I-55. The segment extending I-269 west about a mile or so to I-69 north of Memphis is under study. That will be happening when I-69 is extended south from its current under construction route from Kentucky to I-155.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on November 02, 2016, 10:48:05 AM
I-69 will have to be built mostly on a new alignment between Millington and Dyersburg. There's just too much development along the existing US-51/TN-3 corridor.

The route might be able to use US-51/TN-3 for some length between towns. From Millington to just North of Covington the existing route is too encroached and overrun with properties. The route isn't bad running through Henning. But it gets totally encroached again in Ripley. In Dyersburg I'm all but certain I-69 will have to use the US-20 freeway East of town. I-69 would split away from US-20 near the TN-210 interchange East of Fowlkes and then dovetail into US-51/TN-3 by Halls.

TN DOT will probably put off this part of I-69 as long as they can. But procrastinating has its consequences. If they're not already trying to acquire ROW along a preferred route they're making a serious and likely very costly mistake.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: robbones on November 02, 2016, 09:38:47 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on November 02, 2016, 10:48:05 AM
I-69 will have to be built mostly on a new alignment between Millington and Dyersburg. There's just too much development along the existing US-51/TN-3 corridor.

The route might be able to use US-51/TN-3 for some length between towns. From Millington to just North of Covington the existing route is too encroached and overrun with properties. The route isn't bad running through Henning. But it gets totally encroached again in Ripley. In Dyersburg I'm all but certain I-69 will have to use the US-20 freeway East of town. I-69 would split away from US-20 near the TN-210 interchange East of Fowlkes and then dovetail into US-51/TN-3 by Halls.

TN DOT will probably put off this part of I-69 as long as they can. But procrastinating has its consequences. If they're not already trying to acquire ROW along a preferred route they're making a serious and likely very costly mistake.
US 20 doesn't run anywhere near Tennessee.

LG-H634

Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on November 02, 2016, 09:43:16 PM
Quote from: robbones on November 02, 2016, 09:38:47 PM
US 20 doesn't run anywhere near Tennessee.
If you look at a map it'll be obvious what he meant.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on November 02, 2016, 10:40:21 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on November 02, 2016, 10:48:05 AM
I-69 will have to be built mostly on a new alignment between Millington and Dyersburg. There's just too much development along the existing US-51/TN-3 corridor.

The route might be able to use US-51/TN-3 for some length between towns. From Millington to just North of Covington the existing route is too encroached and overrun with properties. The route isn't bad running through Henning. But it gets totally encroached again in Ripley. In Dyersburg I'm all but certain I-69 will have to use the US-20 freeway East of town. I-69 would split away from US-20 near the TN-210 interchange East of Fowlkes and then dovetail into US-51/TN-3 by Halls.

TN DOT will probably put off this part of I-69 as long as they can. But procrastinating has its consequences. If they're not already trying to acquire ROW along a preferred route they're making a serious and likely very costly mistake.

The DEIS selected a routing west of Dyersburg, tying into I-155 around the location of the welcome center if I recall correctly; following the US 412 (now-unsigned TN 20) bypass was considered but rejected. I don't know specifically why off-hand - I think the DEIS is still on the TDOT website but I'm on a slow link - but I'd imagine the proximity of the I-155 tie-in and the US 51 interchange immediately to the south would be problematic with higher traffic volumes.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on November 03, 2016, 01:01:59 AM
At first glance it looks like TDOT could save a lot of money running I-69 along the US-412/TN-20 bypass East of Dyersburg. I can understand the choice of building a route West of Dyersburg. There is hardly any development West of the US-51 corridor in that area. Farther South it's a little tricky. The Chickasaw National Wildlife Refuge is not far West of US-51. There is sporadic development East and West of the US-51 corridor. Whatever alignment is chosen to build it's going to erase at least a few buildings. I don't even know how much arguing has been going in various towns along US-51 over where I-69 will be built.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on November 03, 2016, 03:28:35 PM
Wherever 69 may be built, I hope it's built along a corridor that's logical.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 04, 2016, 12:33:28 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on November 02, 2016, 10:48:05 AM
I-69 will have to be built mostly on a new alignment between Millington and Dyersburg. There's just too much development along the existing US-51/TN-3 corridor.

The route might be able to use US-51/TN-3 for some length between towns. From Millington to just North of Covington the existing route is too encroached and overrun with properties. The route isn't bad running through Henning. But it gets totally encroached again in Ripley. In Dyersburg I'm all but certain I-69 will have to use the US-20 freeway East of town. I-69 would split away from US-20 near the TN-210 interchange East of Fowlkes and then dovetail into US-51/TN-3 by Halls.

TN DOT will probably put off this part of I-69 as long as they can. But procrastinating has its consequences. If they're not already trying to acquire ROW along a preferred route they're making a serious and likely very costly mistake.

I-69 already has a route mapped:

https://www.tn.gov/assets/entities/tdot/attachments/i-69s01.pdf

https://www.tn.gov/assets/entities/tdot/attachments/i-69s03.pdf
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: edwaleni on November 11, 2016, 09:32:03 PM
I thought I would mention that with I-22 open through from Memphis to Birmingham, the I-269 beltway is going to take on a larger role as an "Atlanta Bypass" for SE/NW based traffic. More and more logistics are trying find better ways to bypass Atlanta without going south on I-55 or east on I-40.

Atlanta has become such a nightmare, especially its beltways, that more and more people are trying to find strategic bypasses that don't add significant levels of mileage.

Even if I-269 never crosses the Mississippi, some firms are routing traffic up and down through I-65 north to Nashville, taking the I-840 bypass to I-40 and then jumping north on US412 at Jackson to connect to I-155 at Dyersburg.

That gives you an idea of how strategic I-22 and I-269 really is.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on November 14, 2016, 03:15:16 PM
I-22 isn't a high speed Atlanta bypass. If anything I-22 will only help commercial and personal vehicle traffic get to/from the Atlanta area directly, not around it. I-22 is going to funnel traffic toward Atlanta in the same manner as I-16 in Georgia, but possibly with significantly greater effect than I-16.

Atlanta is a major trucking hub, so a lot of commercial vehicles aren't going to be avoiding the place anyway. Commercial traffic originating in places like Florida or the Carolinas have very limited options to avoid Atlanta, especially if the traffic stays only on Interstate highways. I-20 is the only East-West Interstate that completely crosses Georgia. I-40 and I-10 are pretty far away.

If there was an Interstate linking Birmingham directly with Columbus, GA as well as Albany, GA and going down to Jacksonville, FL then that would be a pretty effective long distance Atlanta bypass. By the way, I think such a highway would be more useful for the Deep South than some of the other regional Interstate proposals that have been tossed around the past 20 or so years.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on December 06, 2016, 07:59:13 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on August 29, 2016, 09:34:51 AM
I know that paving contracts have been let, but have they started the final grading and paving of any portion of I-269 from I-55 to the completed section?

This article (http://www.commercialappeal.com/story/news/local/suburbs/desoto/2016/12/05/crossing-line-desoto-elections-lawsuits-and-more/94759542/) reports that paving has started under the first section, but that it is not expected to start under the second contract until after the new year. It is now projected to be open to traffic by late Fall 2018:

Quote
I-269 BULLETIN
Well, "bulletin" might be a bit strong. Let's just say the Mississippi Department of Transportation told us a little something about the status of the much-anticipated project as part of an update of North Mississippi projects.
I-269, the largest active MDOT construction project, eventually will form a horseshoe of nearly 60 miles from Hernando to Millington in Shelby County. It will be part of a bypass around Memphis as part of the planned Interstate 69 route from Canada to Mexico. In addition to easing travel for motorists, development officials and elected leaders throughout the areas touched by it are excited about the growth potential the project will bring.
For those reasons, many people latch on to any tidbit of fresh information about its status. Well, in the latest update, MDOT doesn't offer a lot but does reassure that I-269 is still expected to be open to traffic in North Mississippi in late fall of 2018.
Dirt and bridge work for the entire I-269 corridor is complete, MDOT says, and two paving projects are underway as part of the next phase. Work has begun on the first of the two paving projects, and the contract for the second paving project has been awarded. However, MDOT says it doesn't expect work on the second project to begin until sometime after the first of the year.
The first section of I-269, from Miss. 302 to the Tennessee line in Marshall County, opened to traffic Oct. 23, 2015.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 07, 2016, 10:17:04 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on December 06, 2016, 07:59:13 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on August 29, 2016, 09:34:51 AM
I know that paving contracts have been let, but have they started the final grading and paving of any portion of I-269 from I-55 to the completed section?

This article (http://www.commercialappeal.com/story/news/local/suburbs/desoto/2016/12/05/crossing-line-desoto-elections-lawsuits-and-more/94759542/) reports that paving has started under the first section, but that it is not expected to start under the second contract until after the new year. It is now projected to be open to traffic by late Fall 2018:

Quote
I-269 BULLETIN
Well, "bulletin" might be a bit strong. Let's just say the Mississippi Department of Transportation told us a little something about the status of the much-anticipated project as part of an update of North Mississippi projects.
I-269, the largest active MDOT construction project, eventually will form a horseshoe of nearly 60 miles from Hernando to Millington in Shelby County. It will be part of a bypass around Memphis as part of the planned Interstate 69 route from Canada to Mexico. In addition to easing travel for motorists, development officials and elected leaders throughout the areas touched by it are excited about the growth potential the project will bring.
For those reasons, many people latch on to any tidbit of fresh information about its status. Well, in the latest update, MDOT doesn't offer a lot but does reassure that I-269 is still expected to be open to traffic in North Mississippi in late fall of 2018.
Dirt and bridge work for the entire I-269 corridor is complete, MDOT says, and two paving projects are underway as part of the next phase. Work has begun on the first of the two paving projects, and the contract for the second paving project has been awarded. However, MDOT says it doesn't expect work on the second project to begin until sometime after the first of the year.
The first section of I-269, from Miss. 302 to the Tennessee line in Marshall County, opened to traffic Oct. 23, 2015.

So, Spring of 2019 then?  :biggrin:
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on January 15, 2017, 12:45:49 PM
Google Maps has updated imagery from late October showing the progression of the I-269 paving in east DeSoto and west Marshall Counties. The missing ramps at the I-22 interchange are now being graded in the imagery.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: plain on January 15, 2017, 01:30:56 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on January 15, 2017, 12:45:49 PM
Google Maps has updated imagery from late October showing the progression of the I-269 paving in east DeSoto and west Marshall Counties. The missing ramps at the I-22 interchange are now being graded in the imagery.

Thanks for the heads up! Looking at it I can see how nicely the loop is starting to form. I went to Street View to see why those bridges are so long just east of the I-22 interchange and noticed the heavy traffic on MS 178. Is that road always that congested?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on January 16, 2017, 05:07:49 AM
Quote from: plain on January 15, 2017, 01:30:56 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on January 15, 2017, 12:45:49 PM
Google Maps has updated imagery from late October showing the progression of the I-269 paving in east DeSoto and west Marshall Counties. The missing ramps at the I-22 interchange are now being graded in the imagery.

Thanks for the heads up! Looking at it I can see how nicely the loop is starting to form. I went to Street View to see why those bridges are so long just east of the I-22 interchange and noticed the heavy traffic on MS 178. Is that road always that congested?

It looks like the twin I-269 bridges over MS 178 and the adjacent BNSF tracks also cross a channelized waterway that also ducks under the WB 22 to NB 269 ramp as well as mainline I-22; that probably accounts for the bridge length, since the location of the waterway overcrossing is right where the I-269 interchange slip lanes merge back with the main traffic lanes; instead of constructing a small bridge over the waterway and another bridge (shorter than what's being currently constructed) over MS 178 and the tracks with a berm in between.  The presence of a perpendicular connecting road to MS 178 might have had some influence in the bridge design and length as well.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on January 16, 2017, 07:17:28 AM
Quote from: plainI went to Street View to see why those bridges are so long just east of the I-22 interchange and noticed the heavy traffic on MS 178. Is that road always that congested?

No.  If you go a little west of I-269 on GMSV, you'll see why traffic is backed up:  road striping operations had traffic stopped.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on February 04, 2017, 10:21:36 AM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 07, 2016, 10:17:04 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on December 06, 2016, 07:59:13 PM
This article (http://www.commercialappeal.com/story/news/local/suburbs/desoto/2016/12/05/crossing-line-desoto-elections-lawsuits-and-more/94759542/) reports that paving has started under the first section, but that it is not expected to start under the second contract until after the new year. It is now projected to be open to traffic by late Fall 2018
So, Spring of 2019 then?  :biggrin:

This February 1 article (http://www.desototimes.com/news/desoto-road-projects-moving-forward/article_33f683a2-e8d9-11e6-ba37-0bebc3364060.html) quotes a MDOT official as saying that I-269 could be open in eighteen months:

Quote
DeSoto County is on track to have some major improvements to its road system finished next year, according to Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) Northern District Commissioner Mike Tagert.
The new construction of I-269 from the Tennessee state border to its connection with I-69 north of Hernando and the completion of the Coldwater River bridge south of Hernando on U.S. Highway 51 are both on schedule to be finished in 2018 ....
Tagert did say DeSoto County drivers should be able to travel the finished portion of I-269 by the fall of 2018.
"We're very proud of the I-269/I-69 project in DeSoto County and I hope folks in DeSoto County are, as well,"  Tagert said. "I-269 is a monumental project, but it's ahead of schedule and it's on budget. We're about 18 months out from finishing it and that's progress."
The Northern District Commissioner didn't speculate on how much of that project could be finished this year, saying the paving progress is at the discretion of the contractor.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: abqtraveler on February 04, 2017, 04:27:13 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 07, 2016, 10:17:04 AM
...the paving progress is at the discretion of the contractor.

Doesn't sound like the Government is really pushing the contractor to get the job done in a timely manner.  What politician in Mississippi is getting their wallet lined by letting the contractor string out the paving process?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on February 04, 2017, 06:40:26 PM
Quote from: abqtraveler on February 04, 2017, 04:27:13 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 07, 2016, 10:17:04 AM
...the paving progress is at the discretion of the contractor.

Doesn't sound like the Government is really pushing the contractor to get the job done in a timely manner.  What politician in Mississippi is getting their wallet lined by letting the contractor string out the paving process?

Construction contracts have deadlines. It's up to the contractor to decide if they want to stretch the work out and get done near/at the deadline, or get it done and move on to the next job, depending on what other demand there is for the equipment and labor (and subcontractors), especially if there's no bonus for early completion.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on February 22, 2017, 11:37:54 PM
OT, does anyone know if there are going to be any planned truck stops/restaurants at or near the 22/269 interchange? Mississippi SR 302 is pure hell with all the development of strip malls there. Its 80s Atlanta backwards development again going on along Route 302
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on February 23, 2017, 12:29:16 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on February 22, 2017, 11:37:54 PM
OT, does anyone know if there are going to be any planned truck stops/restaurants at or near the 22/269 interchange? Mississippi SR 302 is pure hell with all the development of strip malls there. Its 80s Atlanta backwards development again going on along Route 302

There's a Pilot at Hacks Cross Road (Exit 6) already, although it's a backtrack from 269. It wouldn't surprise me if a different chain like Love's goes in at the MS 309 exit (Exit 14) eventually; there's already a motel and a couple of gas stations there, and Byhalia probably can extend its sewer services fairly easily - the other exits probably don't have as much infrastructure for a modern big truck stop.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on April 06, 2017, 11:17:39 AM
Google maps shows a fair amount of asphalt laid down on the I-269 roadbed running west from the I-22 interchange to the MS305 interchange.


Correction:  The asphalt also runs east up to MS302, at least as far at the satellite image goes.

Not a construction expert, but I assume this is just the first of several layers.

But it is nice to see progress.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on April 07, 2017, 10:41:52 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on December 06, 2016, 07:59:13 PM
This article (http://www.commercialappeal.com/story/news/local/suburbs/desoto/2016/12/05/crossing-line-desoto-elections-lawsuits-and-more/94759542/) reports that paving has started under the first section, but that it is not expected to start under the second contract until after the new year. It is now projected to be open to traffic by late Fall 2018

This TV video (http://www.localmemphis.com/news/local-news/construction-of-i-269-in-desoto-and-marshall-counties-remains-on-schedule/688210151) reports that construction is still on schedule:

Quote
The largest construction project in the state of Mississippi is right on schedule, according to the state's department of transportation. Dirt and bridge work on I-269 is complete.
"Construction of I-269 in DeSoto and Marshall Counties is right on schedule,"  says MDOT PIO Jason Scott.
The final phase of I-269 is almost finished. MDOT officials say crews have to pave the remaining 24 miles from the I-269 junction with Interstate 55 in Hernando to Highway 302 in Marshall County ....
The final phase is expected to be finished in the fall of 2018.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: compdude787 on April 07, 2017, 01:32:56 PM
Wow, this is sure going at a snail's pace! Apparently, it takes a long time to pave a road.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on April 07, 2017, 01:35:54 PM
Quote from: compdude787 on April 07, 2017, 01:32:56 PM
Wow, this is sure going at a snail's pace! Apparently, it takes a long time to pave a road.

A lot more goes into it than one would think. It is a long stretch of road for one, and then there are multiple layers of asphalt and road bed material that has to be placed. Asphalt paving is also seasonal and is weather dependent, so most paving doesn't occur during the winter months. In this case, there is also some minor grading work that also needs to occur before paving can begin.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on April 07, 2017, 08:43:15 PM
They may be doing the mainline in concrete on an asphalt base, like I-69/MS 304 west of Hernando. Still, given that there's not an early completion bonus or any other incentive (i.e. being able to collect shadow tolls until a certain future date) I assume the contractor and subcontractors are stretching things out and working on it during gaps between their private and municipal projects when labor and equipment would otherwise be idle.

Certainly if they wanted to be done this fall, they could; it doesn't take that long to pave 80 lane-miles and put up signs if you bring in multiple paving crews.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on April 07, 2017, 09:29:47 PM
QuoteAsphalt paving is also seasonal and is weather dependent, so most paving doesn't occur during the winter months.

In many parts of the country, yes.  But in Mississippi, it tends to remain warm enough for at least some winter paving to occur.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on May 30, 2017, 07:00:05 PM
This May 30 MDOT News Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=2116&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2) still projects that Interstate 269 will be open to traffic in Fall 2018:

Quote
·         Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall Counties
Construction of the Interstate 269 project is on schedule in North Mississippi. This is the largest active MDOT construction project in the state. Dirt and bridgework for the entire Interstate 269 corridor is complete. Crews are currently working on paving the sections of the project that have not been paved. MDOT expects Interstate 269 to be open for traffic in fall 2018. The first section of Interstate 269, from State Route 302 to the Tennessee state line in Marshall County, was opened to traffic on October 23, 2015.

There are also some photos of the progress and even some drone footage:

https://file-exchange.mdot.state.ms.us/dl/?f=5cc56097afbb7de95111932fcc10aadb5a47db4d
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on June 01, 2017, 12:59:29 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 30, 2017, 07:00:05 PM
This May 30 MDOT News Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=2116&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2) still projects that Interstate 269 will be open to traffic in Fall 2018:

Quote
·         Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall Counties
Construction of the Interstate 269 project is on schedule in North Mississippi. This is the largest active MDOT construction project in the state. Dirt and bridgework for the entire Interstate 269 corridor is complete. Crews are currently working on paving the sections of the project that have not been paved. MDOT expects Interstate 269 to be open for traffic in fall 2018. The first section of Interstate 269, from State Route 302 to the Tennessee state line in Marshall County, was opened to traffic on October 23, 2015.

There are also some photos of the progress and even some drone footage:

https://file-exchange.mdot.state.ms.us/dl/?f=5cc56097afbb7de95111932fcc10aadb5a47db4d

Love the drone footage, but has the Mississippi DOT never heard of Youtube?  Can't get the download to work on my iPad just on my  PC.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on June 02, 2017, 11:29:05 AM
So, hopefully the link from US 78 To IH 55 Will be open a year from now? That's great. Going through 302 is hell and the wrong way of doing suburban development, lining strip malls and restaurants along one road. That's where suburbs in Atlanta went wrong. Are there any photos of the IH 55 and 269 interchange?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on June 02, 2017, 04:22:26 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on June 02, 2017, 11:29:05 AM
So, hopefully the link from US 78 To IH 55 Will be open a year from now? That's great. Going through 302 is hell and the wrong way of doing suburban development, lining strip malls and restaurants along one road. That's where suburbs in Atlanta went wrong. Are there any photos of the IH 55 and 269 interchange?

The 55/269 interchange is simply a full build-out of the present 55/69 cloverleaf interchange near Hernando; plenty of pix available for that facility, since it's been shown on Google Earth for about 10 years now.  What will be interesting is to see how the transition signage, particularly in both directions on I-55 references the connection to I-22 (e.g.: "I-269 EAST to I-22" from southbound I-55).  I'll take a guess that more directional approaches to I-269 (I-69 and I-55 north) will feature at least one control city as well; perhaps Colliersville -- or even Jackson or Nashville!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on June 02, 2017, 07:28:19 PM
Thanks for the 411 hopefully they will start building truck stops and restaurants around the 78/269 interchange at the start of the year. OT anyone notice the storm damage 15 miles Southeast of there. Like driving in Arkansas, going through that area during a storm is a ####
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ilpt4u on June 13, 2017, 07:11:39 PM
Quote from: sparker on June 02, 2017, 04:22:26 PM
I'll take a guess that more directional approaches to I-269 (I-69 and I-55 north) will feature at least one control city as well; perhaps Colliersville -- or even Jackson or Nashville!
Na, do it IL style -- North/Eastbound while in MS: Control "City:" Tennessee. South/Westbound while in TN: Control "City:" Mississippi...Take a page right out of the Tri-State =). Then I-69/I-55 North can have "Memphis" for Downtown
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rte66man on June 14, 2017, 10:21:59 AM
Quote from: sparker on June 02, 2017, 04:22:26 PM
What will be interesting is to see how the transition signage, particularly in both directions on I-55 references the connection to I-22 (e.g.: "I-269 EAST to I-22" from southbound I-55).  I'll take a guess that more directional approaches to I-269 (I-69 and I-55 north) will feature at least one control city as well; perhaps Colliersville -- or even Jackson or Nashville!

I would hope it's the latter although if I220 in Jackson is any indication, it will say Byhalia for eastbound 269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: amroad17 on June 16, 2017, 10:57:13 PM
For I-269 North it should have Nashville and Birmingham (although Tupelo could be used).  South I-269 (from I-40) should have Byhalia and Jackson.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on June 16, 2017, 11:09:18 PM
Any word on the progress of 269 north of I-40? And what does the interchange of 269/40 look like? If they have even started construction there?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on June 16, 2017, 11:37:15 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on June 16, 2017, 11:09:18 PM
Any word on the progress of 269 north of I-40? And what does the interchange of 269/40 look like? If they have even started construction there?
What? It's a cloverleaf. All done.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on June 16, 2017, 11:43:45 PM
Oh, I missed out. Haven't been in that area in 15 years. I'm guessing it was done 10+ years ago?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on June 16, 2017, 11:58:30 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on June 16, 2017, 11:43:45 PM
Oh, I missed out. Haven't been in that area in 15 years. I'm guessing it was done 10+ years ago?

The I-22/269 interchange is a relatively recent build; over the past 2-3 years.  There's plenty of pictures of the construction progress, particularly in the I-22 thread.  Apparently the projected opening is sometime in late 2018. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rickmastfan67 on June 17, 2017, 12:20:26 AM
Quote from: sparker on June 16, 2017, 11:58:30 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on June 16, 2017, 11:43:45 PM
Oh, I missed out. Haven't been in that area in 15 years. I'm guessing it was done 10+ years ago?

The I-22/269 interchange is a relatively recent build; over the past 2-3 years.  There's plenty of pictures of the construction progress, particularly in the I-22 thread.  Apparently the projected opening is sometime in late 2018.

Tomahawkin was talking about the I-40 interchange.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on June 17, 2017, 01:01:03 AM
Quote from: rickmastfan67 on June 17, 2017, 12:20:26 AM
Quote from: sparker on June 16, 2017, 11:58:30 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on June 16, 2017, 11:43:45 PM
Oh, I missed out. Haven't been in that area in 15 years. I'm guessing it was done 10+ years ago?

The I-22/269 interchange is a relatively recent build; over the past 2-3 years.  There's plenty of pictures of the construction progress, particularly in the I-22 thread.  Apparently the projected opening is sometime in late 2018.

Tomahawkin was talking about the I-40 interchange.

Oops -- now I know I should have opted for bifocals!  Missed it by that much!!!! 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on September 07, 2017, 04:55:22 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on May 30, 2017, 07:00:05 PM
This May 30 MDOT News Release (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=2116&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2) still projects that Interstate 269 will be open to traffic in Fall 2018:
Quote
·         Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall Counties
MDOT expects Interstate 269 to be open for traffic in fall 2018.

This article (http://www.desototimes.com/news/i--nearing-final-completion-for-desoto-county/article_198a7666-9353-11e7-8d40-87750584e082.html) provides an optimistic projection that portions of I-269 in Mississippi will open in November, 2017 and May, 2018, with the remainder open to traffic this time next year:

Quote
Mitch Turner, Northern District Engineer for the Mississippi Department of Transportation ....
A portion of I-269 is complete from the Marshall County line to Hwy. 302.
Portions through Lewisburg to Hernando remain to be completed. Paving is underway.
The paved portion of I-269 east of 305 into Marshall County will be open this November.
The portion that begins just west of I-55 through Lewisburg is expected to be completed by May of 2018.
"By this time next year, we hope to have I-269 open to traffic," Turner said.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on September 07, 2017, 05:19:00 PM
What would be a more reasonable time-frame for Interstate 269's completion in your opinion, Grzrd?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on September 07, 2017, 07:33:37 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on September 07, 2017, 05:19:00 PM
What would be a more reasonable time-frame for Interstate 269's completion in your opinion, Grzrd?

Given that MDOT has more-or-less previously consistently stated that I-269 will be completed in Fall of 2018, any revised projections for earlier completions of certain sections and overall I-269, like the ones covered in the article, are more than reasonable.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on September 07, 2017, 08:53:24 PM
Yes! Now I can avoid MS 302 through Southhaven. That route is hell and is the perfect example of backwards urban planning and urban development. Sometimes its 50 minutes to get to IH 55 from US 78 via MS route 302
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on September 11, 2017, 03:16:52 PM
TDOT is letting a signing project to resign TN 385 between the MS State Line and I-40 as I-269. Plans can be found at https://www.tdot.tn.gov/PublicDocuments//Construction/Design_CADD_Files/October%206,%202017%20Letting/Region%204/125391-00-RoadwayInfoOnly.pdf
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: triplemultiplex on September 12, 2017, 02:45:47 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on September 11, 2017, 03:16:52 PM
TDOT is letting a signing project to resign TN 385 between the MS State Line and I-40 as I-269. Plans can be found at https://www.tdot.tn.gov/PublicDocuments//Construction/Design_CADD_Files/October%206,%202017%20Letting/Region%204/125391-00-RoadwayInfoOnly.pdf
Bah, sign the whole thing and be done with it.  So what if it doesn't connect to anything on the north side for a decade or more?  Better to get it resigned all at once rather than have to introduce another number change in the future. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on September 12, 2017, 04:47:40 PM
Quote from: triplemultiplex on September 12, 2017, 02:45:47 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on September 11, 2017, 03:16:52 PM
TDOT is letting a signing project to resign TN 385 between the MS State Line and I-40 as I-269. Plans can be found at https://www.tdot.tn.gov/PublicDocuments//Construction/Design_CADD_Files/October%206,%202017%20Letting/Region%204/125391-00-RoadwayInfoOnly.pdf
Bah, sign the whole thing and be done with it.  So what if it doesn't connect to anything on the north side for a decade or more?  Better to get it resigned all at once rather than have to introduce another number change in the future.
I agree. Now with the way they are signing it there will be two disjointed sections of SR 385 in Shelby County.  And US 51 in Millington would be a perfectly fine stopping point for 269 until they complete the rest of SIU 9.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 12, 2017, 05:02:55 PM
Quote from: Brooks on September 12, 2017, 04:47:40 PM
Quote from: triplemultiplex on September 12, 2017, 02:45:47 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on September 11, 2017, 03:16:52 PM
TDOT is letting a signing project to resign TN 385 between the MS State Line and I-40 as I-269. Plans can be found at https://www.tdot.tn.gov/PublicDocuments//Construction/Design_CADD_Files/October%206,%202017%20Letting/Region%204/125391-00-RoadwayInfoOnly.pdf
Bah, sign the whole thing and be done with it.  So what if it doesn't connect to anything on the north side for a decade or more?  Better to get it resigned all at once rather than have to introduce another number change in the future.
I agree. Now with the way they are signing it there will be two disjointed sections of SR 385 in Shelby County.  And US 51 in Millington would be a perfectly fine stopping point for 269 until they complete the rest of SIU 9.

It's likely the reticence about signing I-269 over the TN 385 segment north and west of I-40 has as much to do with perception than reality -- as there's no timetable for actually developing I-69 from Memphis to Dyersburg, TDOT doesn't want to give the public -- or any backers or even detractors of the SIU 9 segment -- any reason to expect any concrete action on that segment.  They're probably of the (internal) opinion that if they were to sign I-269 over the northern stretch, there would be both pressure to actually come up with definitive plans to build out I-69 to meet the northwest end of the loop or, alternately, increased vocal opposition from local and/or environmental activists.  TDOT seems to be engaged in a consistent pattern of procrastination regarding this SIU (given their financial situation that is understandable); that'll be the status quo for some time -- and they want to avoid any more short-term controversies adding to the problems posed by their fiscal situation.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on September 12, 2017, 10:46:55 PM
Quote from: sparker on September 12, 2017, 05:02:55 PM
Quote from: Brooks on September 12, 2017, 04:47:40 PM
Quote from: triplemultiplex on September 12, 2017, 02:45:47 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on September 11, 2017, 03:16:52 PM
TDOT is letting a signing project to resign TN 385 between the MS State Line and I-40 as I-269. Plans can be found at https://www.tdot.tn.gov/PublicDocuments//Construction/Design_CADD_Files/October%206,%202017%20Letting/Region%204/125391-00-RoadwayInfoOnly.pdf
Bah, sign the whole thing and be done with it.  So what if it doesn't connect to anything on the north side for a decade or more?  Better to get it resigned all at once rather than have to introduce another number change in the future.
I agree. Now with the way they are signing it there will be two disjointed sections of SR 385 in Shelby County.  And US 51 in Millington would be a perfectly fine stopping point for 269 until they complete the rest of SIU 9.

It's likely the reticence about signing I-269 over the TN 385 segment north and west of I-40 has as much to do with perception than reality -- as there's no timetable for actually developing I-69 from Memphis to Dyersburg, TDOT doesn't want to give the public -- or any backers or even detractors of the SIU 9 segment -- any reason to expect any concrete action on that segment.  They're probably of the (internal) opinion that if they were to sign I-269 over the northern stretch, there would be both pressure to actually come up with definitive plans to build out I-69 to meet the northwest end of the loop or, alternately, increased vocal opposition from local and/or environmental activists.  TDOT seems to be engaged in a consistent pattern of procrastination regarding this SIU (given their financial situation that is understandable); that'll be the status quo for some time -- and they want to avoid any more short-term controversies adding to the problems posed by their fiscal situation.
This is probably true; however, one way that I think would justify extending the designation would be to finish I-69 in Shelby County from SR-300 to SR 385.  I believe this could help development(s) in an economically depressed area of Memphis and improve the connection from Millington to downtown Memphis.  I know this is highly unrealistic given the circumstances, but I can dream I guess.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 13, 2017, 05:26:48 AM
Quote from: Brooks on September 12, 2017, 10:46:55 PM
Quote from: sparker on September 12, 2017, 05:02:55 PM
Quote from: Brooks on September 12, 2017, 04:47:40 PM
Quote from: triplemultiplex on September 12, 2017, 02:45:47 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on September 11, 2017, 03:16:52 PM
TDOT is letting a signing project to resign TN 385 between the MS State Line and I-40 as I-269. Plans can be found at https://www.tdot.tn.gov/PublicDocuments//Construction/Design_CADD_Files/October%206,%202017%20Letting/Region%204/125391-00-RoadwayInfoOnly.pdf
Bah, sign the whole thing and be done with it.  So what if it doesn't connect to anything on the north side for a decade or more?  Better to get it resigned all at once rather than have to introduce another number change in the future.
I agree. Now with the way they are signing it there will be two disjointed sections of SR 385 in Shelby County.  And US 51 in Millington would be a perfectly fine stopping point for 269 until they complete the rest of SIU 9.

It's likely the reticence about signing I-269 over the TN 385 segment north and west of I-40 has as much to do with perception than reality -- as there's no timetable for actually developing I-69 from Memphis to Dyersburg, TDOT doesn't want to give the public -- or any backers or even detractors of the SIU 9 segment -- any reason to expect any concrete action on that segment.  They're probably of the (internal) opinion that if they were to sign I-269 over the northern stretch, there would be both pressure to actually come up with definitive plans to build out I-69 to meet the northwest end of the loop or, alternately, increased vocal opposition from local and/or environmental activists.  TDOT seems to be engaged in a consistent pattern of procrastination regarding this SIU (given their financial situation that is understandable); that'll be the status quo for some time -- and they want to avoid any more short-term controversies adding to the problems posed by their fiscal situation.
This is probably true; however, one way that I think would justify extending the designation would be to finish I-69 in Shelby County from SR-300 to SR 385.  I believe this could help development(s) in an economically depressed area of Memphis and improve the connection from Millington to downtown Memphis.  I know this is highly unrealistic given the circumstances, but I can dream I guess.

That short segment of I-69 might be done as part of the larger project, but there's little or no impetus to do just the southern part of SIU 9 as a stand-alone segment just to connect to the outer TN 385 bypass.  Memphis-Dyersburg will likely be done as a unit when and if funding is identified and available, like most of the other SIU's have been to date.  Right now it appears that TDOT is initially focusing on Dyersburg-Fulton, since most of the preliminary work has already been done to get that segment (SIU 8) up & running.  Don't expect to see much in the way of action on SIU 9 in the early 2020's unless a $$ windfall occurs.   
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on October 29, 2017, 05:27:52 PM
I'm still trying to figure out why there is no sign on I-40 that will show a To I-22 Birmingham/Tupelo shield for the I-269 exit? It would seem like common sense to add this sign to I-40 East/West before exits 24/25.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 29, 2017, 05:56:16 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on October 29, 2017, 05:27:52 PM
I'm still trying to figure out why there is no sign on I-40 that will show a To I-22 Birmingham/Tupelo shield for the I-269 exit? It would seem like common sense to add this sign to I-40 East/West before exits 24/25.

That may come in time -- but that's one of the inconsistencies when an actual construction project is going on in one state that affects traffic patterns in an adjacent state -- the latter often doesn't get around to posting trailblazer signage until the facility is fully open -- and sometimes not at all.  In this instance, the shortest way to get to I-22 from central Memphis is via SB I-55 and EB I-269 rather than from I-40, where the junction with TN 385/I-269 is well east of where I-40 turns NE toward Jackson.  The immediate need for such signage may not be apparent until after I-269 is completed in MS and the outer metro traffic patterns adjust to the presence of the new facility.  OTOH, I would expect "TO I-22" signage to appear at the I-240 approaches to the E-W section of TN 385 out to Collierville, as that's part of a much shorter pathway to I-22.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 04, 2017, 03:41:21 AM
Quote from: sparker on October 29, 2017, 05:56:16 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on October 29, 2017, 05:27:52 PM
I'm still trying to figure out why there is no sign on I-40 that will show a To I-22 Birmingham/Tupelo shield for the I-269 exit? It would seem like common sense to add this sign to I-40 East/West before exits 24/25.

That may come in time -- but that's one of the inconsistencies when an actual construction project is going on in one state that affects traffic patterns in an adjacent state -- the latter often doesn't get around to posting trailblazer signage until the facility is fully open -- and sometimes not at all.  In this instance, the shortest way to get to I-22 from central Memphis is via SB I-55 and EB I-269 rather than from I-40, where the junction with TN 385/I-269 is well east of where I-40 turns NE toward Jackson.  The immediate need for such signage may not be apparent until after I-269 is completed in MS and the outer metro traffic patterns adjust to the presence of the new facility.  OTOH, I would expect "TO I-22" signage to appear at the I-240 approaches to the E-W section of TN 385 out to Collierville, as that's part of a much shorter pathway to I-22.
In that case, they should do more than add signs on 385. Instead of ending I-22 at I-269 (because the interstate plan was to connect Memphis and Birmingham) they should have I-22 follow I-269 north to 385 right across the state line. hwy 385 should be resigned as I-22 and it would end at the I-240 junction. This would give a direct route from Inner Memphis to Inner Birmingham. I'm not sure if anyone has thought about it on the state and federal level, but they should've.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 04, 2017, 02:39:29 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 04, 2017, 03:41:21 AM
Quote from: sparker on October 29, 2017, 05:56:16 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on October 29, 2017, 05:27:52 PM
I'm still trying to figure out why there is no sign on I-40 that will show a To I-22 Birmingham/Tupelo shield for the I-269 exit? It would seem like common sense to add this sign to I-40 East/West before exits 24/25.

That may come in time -- but that's one of the inconsistencies when an actual construction project is going on in one state that affects traffic patterns in an adjacent state -- the latter often doesn't get around to posting trailblazer signage until the facility is fully open -- and sometimes not at all.  In this instance, the shortest way to get to I-22 from central Memphis is via SB I-55 and EB I-269 rather than from I-40, where the junction with TN 385/I-269 is well east of where I-40 turns NE toward Jackson.  The immediate need for such signage may not be apparent until after I-269 is completed in MS and the outer metro traffic patterns adjust to the presence of the new facility.  OTOH, I would expect "TO I-22" signage to appear at the I-240 approaches to the E-W section of TN 385 out to Collierville, as that's part of a much shorter pathway to I-22.
In that case, they should do more than add signs on 385. Instead of ending I-22 at I-269 (because the interstate plan was to connect Memphis and Birmingham) they should have I-22 follow I-269 north to 385 right across the state line. hwy 385 should be resigned as I-22 and it would end at the I-240 junction. This would give a direct route from Inner Memphis to Inner Birmingham. I'm not sure if anyone has thought about it on the state and federal level, but they should've.

The interest that TNDOT has had in bringing I-22 into the state is little or none.  I-269 is -- or will be -- a perfectly good distribution facility to and from I-22; multiplexing it north on I-269 and then onto WB 385 would involve several miles of backtracking -- and I-22 would still wind up terminating at a 3di (I-240).  In addition, the 22/269 interchange is a full cloverleaf -- enhanced with C/D lanes on both freeways, but if an extension plan involving the E-W section of TN 385 were implemented, EB 22 would have to go around a 30mph loop.  Unless down the line that interchange were to be upgraded with at least 2 directional flyovers (SB 269-EB 22 and WB 22-WB 269), it would probably be best to leave things as they are, with the connection from I-22 to I-55 effected late next year. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 05, 2017, 07:33:49 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 04, 2017, 02:39:29 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 04, 2017, 03:41:21 AM
Quote from: sparker on October 29, 2017, 05:56:16 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on October 29, 2017, 05:27:52 PM
I'm still trying to figure out why there is no sign on I-40 that will show a To I-22 Birmingham/Tupelo shield for the I-269 exit? It would seem like common sense to add this sign to I-40 East/West before exits 24/25.

That may come in time -- but that's one of the inconsistencies when an actual construction project is going on in one state that affects traffic patterns in an adjacent state -- the latter often doesn't get around to posting trailblazer signage until the facility is fully open -- and sometimes not at all.  In this instance, the shortest way to get to I-22 from central Memphis is via SB I-55 and EB I-269 rather than from I-40, where the junction with TN 385/I-269 is well east of where I-40 turns NE toward Jackson.  The immediate need for such signage may not be apparent until after I-269 is completed in MS and the outer metro traffic patterns adjust to the presence of the new facility.  OTOH, I would expect "TO I-22" signage to appear at the I-240 approaches to the E-W section of TN 385 out to Collierville, as that's part of a much shorter pathway to I-22.
In that case, they should do more than add signs on 385. Instead of ending I-22 at I-269 (because the interstate plan was to connect Memphis and Birmingham) they should have I-22 follow I-269 north to 385 right across the state line. hwy 385 should be resigned as I-22 and it would end at the I-240 junction. This would give a direct route from Inner Memphis to Inner Birmingham. I'm not sure if anyone has thought about it on the state and federal level, but they should've.

The interest that TNDOT has had in bringing I-22 into the state is little or none.  I-269 is -- or will be -- a perfectly good distribution facility to and from I-22; multiplexing it north on I-269 and then onto WB 385 would involve several miles of backtracking -- and I-22 would still wind up terminating at a 3di (I-240).  In addition, the 22/269 interchange is a full cloverleaf -- enhanced with C/D lanes on both freeways, but if an extension plan involving the E-W section of TN 385 were implemented, EB 22 would have to go around a 30mph loop.  Unless down the line that interchange were to be upgraded with at least 2 directional flyovers (SB 269-EB 22 and WB 22-WB 269), it would probably be best to leave things as they are, with the connection from I-22 to I-55 effected late next year.

Ideally the best place to terminate I-22 cheaply would have been at I-55. A different design of the I-22/I-269 interchange could have accomplished this, but it is too late now.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: vdeane on November 05, 2017, 04:19:45 PM
Loop ramps didn't stop I-69's routing in Mississippi.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on November 05, 2017, 04:34:23 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorpsIdeally the best place to terminate I-22 cheaply would have been at I-55. A different design of the I-22/I-269 interchange could have accomplished this, but it is too late now.

I'd say it's too late for the time being. It's not a permanent situation. Existing cloverleaf interchanges have been modified before with one or more loops replaced with direct connected flyovers. The I-22/I-269 interchange could be modified in the future with a couple flyover ramps for extending I-22 a few miles West to I-55.

I still think US-78 needs to be improved all the way to I-240 in Memphis, even if I-22 doesn't get routed to that point. Heavy truck traffic through there is ridiculous. Once I-22 is signed to the I-269 loop traffic on US-78 into Memphis will increase. The plan to extend the freeway terminus 3 miles NW to Perkins Road would encourage even more traffic to take the route. There would still be 7 traffic lights along 3.5 miles of "Breezewood" to endure. But it would take less time navigating that rather than going way around on some other loop. So, Memphis may not have any interest in bringing I-22 to I-240, but I think they'll be forced to convert pieces of that street into freeway one intersection or two at a time.

Extending I-22 to the West, along the I-269 loop, bring up another interesting idea about a potential Mississippi River bridge crossing into Arkansas. If cost was no object I'd actually like to see I-22 extended into Arkansas and end at I-40 around Forrest City.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 05, 2017, 05:36:53 PM
Quote from: vdeane on November 05, 2017, 04:19:45 PM
Loop ramps didn't stop I-69's routing in Mississippi.
Not only this, Memphis currently has cloverleaves on I-55 @ I-240 and I-55 with Riverside drive headings towards the Miss. River bridge.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: wdcrft63 on November 05, 2017, 06:27:52 PM
Quote from: sparker on November 04, 2017, 02:39:29 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 04, 2017, 03:41:21 AM
Quote from: sparker on October 29, 2017, 05:56:16 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on October 29, 2017, 05:27:52 PM
I'm still trying to figure out why there is no sign on I-40 that will show a To I-22 Birmingham/Tupelo shield for the I-269 exit? It would seem like common sense to add this sign to I-40 East/West before exits 24/25.

That may come in time -- but that's one of the inconsistencies when an actual construction project is going on in one state that affects traffic patterns in an adjacent state -- the latter often doesn't get around to posting trailblazer signage until the facility is fully open -- and sometimes not at all.  In this instance, the shortest way to get to I-22 from central Memphis is via SB I-55 and EB I-269 rather than from I-40, where the junction with TN 385/I-269 is well east of where I-40 turns NE toward Jackson.  The immediate need for such signage may not be apparent until after I-269 is completed in MS and the outer metro traffic patterns adjust to the presence of the new facility.  OTOH, I would expect "TO I-22" signage to appear at the I-240 approaches to the E-W section of TN 385 out to Collierville, as that's part of a much shorter pathway to I-22.
In that case, they should do more than add signs on 385. Instead of ending I-22 at I-269 (because the interstate plan was to connect Memphis and Birmingham) they should have I-22 follow I-269 north to 385 right across the state line. hwy 385 should be resigned as I-22 and it would end at the I-240 junction. This would give a direct route from Inner Memphis to Inner Birmingham. I'm not sure if anyone has thought about it on the state and federal level, but they should've.

The interest that TNDOT has had in bringing I-22 into the state is little or none.  I-269 is -- or will be -- a perfectly good distribution facility to and from I-22; multiplexing it north on I-269 and then onto WB 385 would involve several miles of backtracking -- and I-22 would still wind up terminating at a 3di (I-240).  In addition, the 22/269 interchange is a full cloverleaf -- enhanced with C/D lanes on both freeways, but if an extension plan involving the E-W section of TN 385 were implemented, EB 22 would have to go around a 30mph loop.  Unless down the line that interchange were to be upgraded with at least 2 directional flyovers (SB 269-EB 22 and WB 22-WB 269), it would probably be best to leave things as they are, with the connection from I-22 to I-55 effected late next year.
You know, it really doesn't matter where the I-22 signs are. What matters is the traffic, and traffic is going to prove that those flyovers are needed.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on November 05, 2017, 07:50:13 PM
Given how polycentric the Memphis metropolitan area is, there probably really isn't that much traffic destined for the Memphis area that needs to traverse the Lamar corridor to get to its ultimate destination - and the trucks by and large are going to the area any freeway upgrade would bypass. I-269 will distribute enough of the traffic around to I-55 and TN 385.

In any event, the plans for Lamar do include an interchange at Winchester, so in effect the freeway section would continue at least to Getwell. If a direct freeway connection to I-240 is strictly necessary in the future, upgrading the Getwell corridor would probably be more feasible anyway.

Given self-driving vehicle technology should be established in the next 20 years I think we can get a lot of extra capacity out of the infrastructure being built now. I think we'll look back in 2040 and wonder what ALDOT was smoking having I-22 be 3 lanes each way between I-65 and Jasper, for example.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 06, 2017, 09:40:16 AM
The last report I saw had I-269 due to open this month from MS 302 to MS 305, including the connection to I-22, with the segment from MS 305 to I-55/I-69 set to open in the spring.

Is this on schedule?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on November 06, 2017, 02:30:00 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171106/5c8ca6d221e928d0ad1d6f8e4e3145b4.jpg) (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171106/0a7b7c247bd5b289bc1ed9454a04d9e3.jpg)

These are some pictures I recently took of soon-to-be I-269 from the Shinault Road overpass in Byhalia, MS looking northeast and southwest (toward the I-22 cloverleaf), respectively. It appears that this section will (hopefully!) be opening soon. When I was driving near a future exit in a nearby area, I noticed new posts that will most likely hold the signage for the on-ramps to 269. In the second picture, you can get a glimpse of the comedic genius of some of the locals.  :-D  Although I haven't heard anything official lately regarding the opening from 305 to 302, here's hoping that it will end up happening sometime later this month! Photos taken 10/29/17.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: plain on November 06, 2017, 05:22:30 PM
Maaaannnnn I hope they slap a guardrail there (2nd pic)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bugo on November 06, 2017, 07:29:30 PM
If you're going to extend I-22 into Arkansas you might as well have it piggyback I-55 to Turrell and replace I-555 to end at Future I-57 near Hoxie.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 06, 2017, 07:41:29 PM
Quote from: bugo on November 06, 2017, 07:29:30 PM
If you're going to extend I-22 into Arkansas you might as well have it piggyback I-55 to Turrell and replace I-555 to end at Future I-57 near Hoxie.

In and of itself, that's sort of a useless extension, considering the routing the future I-57 will take.  It would have to go considerably farther -- at least into Fictional territory (aka Springfield, MO) to make any sense as an extension. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on November 06, 2017, 11:55:46 PM
I mentioned the minor extension of I-22 to I-40 in Arkansas for a couple of reasons, none of which have anything to do with a possible Southern extension of I-57. The existing I-55 crossing of the Mississippi River stinks. It's a puny 4 lane bridge that really needs to be at least double the size. Multiplexing I-22 onto that is just worsening the problem. MS-304 coming off I-69 in Mississippi is aiming right for the big river. A new crossing could be built there. There is minimal development between the river crossing and I-40. There's a good amount of East-West traffic on I-40 headed to/from points like Atlanta. A connection getting that long haul traffic easily around Memphis would lighten the burden on the old I-40 and I-55 bridge crossings in Memphis.

On that topic of I-57, I'm happy enough with I-530 eventually being built to a junction with I-69. It a tough case to make for extending I-57 farther South into Louisiana, presumably to Monroe and then possibly Alexandria. There's lots of possible future Interstate corridors, but I don't think traffic counts are up enough to justify that one at this time. It's going to be difficult enough as it is just finishing I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana. And then we have all the I-14 nonsense going on. You know those efforts will try to suck away money even for a long established corridor like I-49.

I don't think I-22 needs to be extended North of I-40 along I-555, not unless there is a much bigger picture point to it. And if there was a much bigger picture corridor in the works then the I-22 number might not be acceptable. I've always thought it sucked how the Interstate highway system had no I-50. I've got a thing for diagonal Interstates, so I figured a fictional I-50 would be cool running from Jacksonville, FL to at least the Salt Lake City area, if not actually get into California somehow. I-22 would get eaten up in the process.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 07, 2017, 12:55:27 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on November 06, 2017, 11:55:46 PM
I mentioned the minor extension of I-22 to I-40 in Arkansas for a couple of reasons, none of which have anything to do with a possible Southern extension of I-57. The existing I-55 crossing of the Mississippi River stinks. It's a puny 4 lane bridge that really needs to be at least double the size. Multiplexing I-22 onto that is just worsening the problem. MS-304 coming off I-69 in Mississippi is aiming right for the big river. A new crossing could be built there. There is minimal development between the river crossing and I-40. There's a good amount of East-West traffic on I-40 headed to/from points like Atlanta. A connection getting that long haul traffic easily around Memphis would lighten the burden on the old I-40 and I-55 bridge crossings in Memphis.

On that topic of I-57, I'm happy enough with I-530 eventually being built to a junction with I-69. It a tough case to make for extending I-57 farther South into Louisiana, presumably to Monroe and then possibly Alexandria. There's lots of possible future Interstate corridors, but I don't think traffic counts are up enough to justify that one at this time. It's going to be difficult enough as it is just finishing I-49 between Fort Smith and Texarkana. And then we have all the I-14 nonsense going on. You know those efforts will try to suck away money even for a long established corridor like I-49.

I don't think I-22 needs to be extended North of I-40 along I-555, not unless there is a much bigger picture point to it. And if there was a much bigger picture corridor in the works then the I-22 number might not be acceptable. I've always thought it sucked how the Interstate highway system had no I-50. I've got a thing for diagonal Interstates, so I figured a fictional I-50 would be cool running from Jacksonville, FL to at least the Salt Lake City area, if not actually get into California somehow. I-22 would get eaten up in the process.
I agree about I-22 being a nice connection to the Midwest-West for the Southeastern Cities and Florida beaches. Atlanta, Birmingham, Mobile, Montgomery exc have direct access now with I-22. A bypass around Memphis would work for a lot of traffic. Something is really needed quickly for a replacement in the Miss-Arkansas bridge (I-55). It's ancient and would never stand up to even a medium sized earthquake on the New Madrid. TDOT has already been trying to take away the Cloverleaf I-55 Riverside Drive junction with a fly over and Memphis Politics have stopped that for the time being.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 07, 2017, 01:00:55 AM
Quote from: Brooks on November 06, 2017, 02:30:00 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171106/5c8ca6d221e928d0ad1d6f8e4e3145b4.jpg) (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171106/0a7b7c247bd5b289bc1ed9454a04d9e3.jpg)

These are some pictures I recently took of soon-to-be I-269 from the Shinault Road overpass in Byhalia, MS looking northeast and southwest (toward the I-22 cloverleaf), respectively. It appears that this section will (hopefully!) be opening soon. When I was driving near a future exit in a nearby area, I noticed new posts that will most likely hold the signage for the on-ramps to 269. In the second picture, you can get a glimpse of the comedic genius of some of the locals.  :-D  Although I haven't heard anything official lately regarding the opening from 305 to 302, here's hoping that it will end up happening sometime later this month! Photos taken 10/29/17.
THanks for the pics. some guardrails and signs look to be about all that's left on that stretch. So I-269 from I-22 to Arlington will soon be completed.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: cjk374 on November 07, 2017, 06:33:36 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 07, 2017, 01:00:55 AM
Quote from: Brooks on November 06, 2017, 02:30:00 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171106/5c8ca6d221e928d0ad1d6f8e4e3145b4.jpg) (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171106/0a7b7c247bd5b289bc1ed9454a04d9e3.jpg)

These are some pictures I recently took of soon-to-be I-269 from the Shinault Road overpass in Byhalia, MS looking northeast and southwest (toward the I-22 cloverleaf), respectively. It appears that this section will (hopefully!) be opening soon. When I was driving near a future exit in a nearby area, I noticed new posts that will most likely hold the signage for the on-ramps to 269. In the second picture, you can get a glimpse of the comedic genius of some of the locals.  :-D  Although I haven't heard anything official lately regarding the opening from 305 to 302, here's hoping that it will end up happening sometime later this month! Photos taken 10/29/17.
THanks for the pics. some guardrails and signs look to be about all that's left on that stretch. So I-269 from I-22 to Arlington will soon be completed.

I have a question:  Where & why are guardrails needed in the second pic?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 07, 2017, 11:56:15 AM
Quote from: cjk374 on November 07, 2017, 06:33:36 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 07, 2017, 01:00:55 AM
Quote from: Brooks on November 06, 2017, 02:30:00 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171106/5c8ca6d221e928d0ad1d6f8e4e3145b4.jpg) (https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171106/0a7b7c247bd5b289bc1ed9454a04d9e3.jpg)

These are some pictures I recently took of soon-to-be I-269 from the Shinault Road overpass in Byhalia, MS looking northeast and southwest (toward the I-22 cloverleaf), respectively. It appears that this section will (hopefully!) be opening soon. When I was driving near a future exit in a nearby area, I noticed new posts that will most likely hold the signage for the on-ramps to 269. In the second picture, you can get a glimpse of the comedic genius of some of the locals.  :-D  Although I haven't heard anything official lately regarding the opening from 305 to 302, here's hoping that it will end up happening sometime later this month! Photos taken 10/29/17.
THanks for the pics. some guardrails and signs look to be about all that's left on that stretch. So I-269 from I-22 to Arlington will soon be completed.

I have a question:  Where & why are guardrails needed in the second pic?

I would think that the rock-lined ditch off to the right of the roadway would be the reason for a guardrail on this curve, although the curvature is not particularly sharp (but someone speeding is likely to shoot off the edge at some point in time).  Whether one is installed will likely be determined by MSDOT standard practices.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 08, 2017, 02:08:03 AM
If Miss. does plan on keeping I-22 ending at I-269 long term, I wonder if they will turn hwy 78 into I-222 from state line to I-22/I269 interchange (this would require some bridge work to get up to interstate standards along the way I believe on hwy 78) or post To I-22 shields heading East on Hwy 78?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 08, 2017, 04:52:38 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 08, 2017, 02:08:03 AM
If Miss. does plan on keeping I-22 ending at I-269 long term, I wonder if they will turn hwy 78 into I-222 from state line to I-22/I269 interchange (this would require some bridge work to get up to interstate standards along the way I believe on hwy 78) or post To I-22 shields heading East on Hwy 78?

Most likely MSDOT will leave it as US 78 for the time being, but once the I-269 interchange is up & running, might post EB as "TO I-22" like you suggested.  It's unlikely that they'll seek a 3di designation for the remaining section between that interchange and the state line; in the event that they did, it'd likely be an odd 3di like 122 or 522 -- but continuing a terminating interstate as a signed 3di "child" hasn't been the practice as of late for any DOT (the only instance being the unsigned I-345 as an extension of I-45 in TX -- although the "triple termination" of 62,264, and 664 in VA might be considered a variation on that theme!). 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on November 08, 2017, 02:26:05 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 08, 2017, 02:08:03 AM
If Miss. does plan on keeping I-22 ending at I-269 long term, I wonder if they will turn hwy 78 into I-222 from state line to I-22/I269 interchange (this would require some bridge work to get up to interstate standards along the way I believe on hwy 78) or post To I-22 shields heading East on Hwy 78?
I-222 is already reserved for The I-22/I-422 connector near Birmingham. How about 622 or 822? Personally, I would leave it as US 78.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: triplemultiplex on November 08, 2017, 02:37:06 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on November 08, 2017, 02:26:05 PM
I-222 is already reserved for The I-22/I-422 connector near Birmingham. How about 622 or 822? Personally, I would leave it as US 78.

In Alabama, which, despite all outward appearances, is a different state.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ATLRedSoxFan on November 12, 2017, 01:57:32 PM
Kinda confused,(don't have a reliable map), so when the new segment opens, will it be from the I-22 cloverleaf up to the recently completed/open segment, or just a random portion?
Title: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on November 12, 2017, 02:13:50 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on November 12, 2017, 01:57:32 PM
Kinda confused,(don't have a reliable map), so when the new segment opens, will it be from the I-22 cloverleaf up to the recently completed/open segment, or just a random portion?
According to the latest article I've seen about it, the section from MS 305 (just west of the 22 interchange) to MS 302 (the currently opened section) will open sometime this month.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 12, 2017, 03:03:29 PM
Quote from: Brooks on November 12, 2017, 02:13:50 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on November 12, 2017, 01:57:32 PM
Kinda confused,(don't have a reliable map), so when the new segment opens, will it be from the I-22 cloverleaf up to the recently completed/open segment, or just a random portion?
According to the latest article I've seen about it, the section from MS 305 (just west of the 22 interchange) to MS 302 (the currently opened section) will open sometime this month.
Yes, that's correct. May of 2018 we should see I-269 from I-22 to MS 305 open. In October of 2018, the entire portion of I-269 in Miss. should be open.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 14, 2017, 01:52:54 PM
This is the latest article I have seen on I-269:

http://www.desototimes.com/news/i--nearing-final-completion-for-desoto-county/article_198a7666-9353-11e7-8d40-87750584e082.html

I-269 nearing final completion for DeSoto County
By ROBERT LEE LONG Community Editor Sep 6, 2017

Mitch Turner, Northern District Engineer for the Mississippi Department of Transportation, told members of the Rotary Club of Hernando Wednesday that the good news ahead for DeSoto County is that the long-awaited I-269 project is nearing completion.

"This project was started more than 10 years ago," Turner said. "After right-of-way acquisition, we were finally able to move some dirt and build bridges," adding the total project consists of seven different projects within the corridor, designed to be part of the new "superhighway" between Mexico and Canada.

Turner said the total price tag of I-69/I-269 will top $710 million.

"Through a lot of leadership and help here in DeSoto and Marshall counties, and with a lot of bonding (indebtedness), you were able to push it through," he said. "It was foresight from the people in DeSoto County that made it possible."

Additionally, the newly rebuilt Coldwater River Bridge between Hernando and Senatobia could be open as early as December.

I-69 proper, which was opened to traffic in 2006, begins at Tunica and goes to Hernando and will traverse up Interstate 55 through Memphis. I-269 begins at I-55 in Hernando and will connect with Tenn. Highway 385, or the Bill Morris Parkway, in Collierville.

A portion of I-269 is complete from the Marshall County line to Hwy. 302.

Portions through Lewisburg to Hernando remain to be completed. Paving is underway.

The paved portion of I-269 east of 305 into Marshall County will be open this November.

The portion that begins just west of I-55 through Lewisburg is expected to be completed by May of 2018.

"By this time next year, we hope to have I-269 open to traffic," Turner said.

Turner said the project includes 100 lane miles and more than 56 bridges, in addition to rights-of-way to mow and maintain.

Closer to home, the newly-rebuilt Coldwater River Bridge is finally getting closer to opening, according to Turner.

"It's 1,000 feet longer, taller in the air and wider, so there shouldn't be safety issues," Turner said.
Title: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on November 14, 2017, 01:59:15 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on November 14, 2017, 01:52:54 PM
This is the latest article I have seen on I-269:

http://www.desototimes.com/news/i--nearing-final-completion-for-desoto-county/article_198a7666-9353-11e7-8d40-87750584e082.html

I-269 nearing final completion for DeSoto County
By ROBERT LEE LONG Community Editor Sep 6, 2017

Mitch Turner, Northern District Engineer for the Mississippi Department of Transportation, told members of the Rotary Club of Hernando Wednesday that the good news ahead for DeSoto County is that the long-awaited I-269 project is nearing completion.

"This project was started more than 10 years ago," Turner said. "After right-of-way acquisition, we were finally able to move some dirt and build bridges," adding the total project consists of seven different projects within the corridor, designed to be part of the new "superhighway" between Mexico and Canada.

Turner said the total price tag of I-69/I-269 will top $710 million.

"Through a lot of leadership and help here in DeSoto and Marshall counties, and with a lot of bonding (indebtedness), you were able to push it through," he said. "It was foresight from the people in DeSoto County that made it possible."

Additionally, the newly rebuilt Coldwater River Bridge between Hernando and Senatobia could be open as early as December.

I-69 proper, which was opened to traffic in 2006, begins at Tunica and goes to Hernando and will traverse up Interstate 55 through Memphis. I-269 begins at I-55 in Hernando and will connect with Tenn. Highway 385, or the Bill Morris Parkway, in Collierville.

A portion of I-269 is complete from the Marshall County line to Hwy. 302.

Portions through Lewisburg to Hernando remain to be completed. Paving is underway.

The paved portion of I-269 east of 305 into Marshall County will be open this November.

The portion that begins just west of I-55 through Lewisburg is expected to be completed by May of 2018.

"By this time next year, we hope to have I-269 open to traffic," Turner said.

Turner said the project includes 100 lane miles and more than 56 bridges, in addition to rights-of-way to mow and maintain.

Closer to home, the newly-rebuilt Coldwater River Bridge is finally getting closer to opening, according to Turner.

"It's 1,000 feet longer, taller in the air and wider, so there shouldn't be safety issues," Turner said.

Yes, that was the one I was referring to. Hopefully it is accurate.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on November 14, 2017, 06:49:39 PM
That's great to hear on the link from IH 22 To IH 55. Hopefully there are a few restaurants and Truck Stops. With that in mind is there an ordinance of tall billboard advertising in that area. I rarely see any large ads for the Tunica Area
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 15, 2017, 01:33:13 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on November 14, 2017, 06:49:39 PM
That's great to hear on the link from IH 22 To IH 55. Hopefully there are a few restaurants and Truck Stops. With that in mind is there an ordinance of tall billboard advertising in that area. I rarely see any large ads for the Tunica Area

I-22 will not have a link to I-69/I-55 until next spring.  The part opening this month is from MS 305 East to I-22 and then North East to MS 309 and then North to MS 302 where it meets the existing portion of I-269, which will then connect to I-40.

https://www.google.com/maps/@34.9128552,-89.7394739,13597m/data=!3m1!1e3
Title: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on November 15, 2017, 03:20:45 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171115/325b73fef10da92b6221fccd04ba4929.jpg)
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171115/64ef43b92d9839dc00eeefdca5800b03.jpg)
I returned to the same area yesterday to see if anything new had been done yet. It appears that the inside shoulder has been striped in both directions. All that is left now are some exit gores and the signs. Speaking of which, all of the posts appear to have been installed and you can see in the first picture (barely) one of the first signs being installed! You can't tell in the picture, but it was a standard rural MS freeway speed limit sign (speed limit 70/minimum 40). Excited to see this open soon! Photos taken 11/14.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on November 15, 2017, 03:35:19 PM
It'd be nice if this opened by Saturday so I could take advantage of it on my Thanksgiving trip to Memphis, but somehow I doubt it given the lack of publicity about an opening date.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on November 15, 2017, 06:12:18 PM
Wow. That maybe one of the most rural outer perimeter interstates I've seen. I hope development follows the opening within the new year or so
Title: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on November 15, 2017, 11:10:09 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20171116/57f614f5389e9de1cfe71fe795d02da7.jpg)
I was driving on MS 309 this afternoon and look what I found!  Barely managed to get this photo while driving through.  Apparently one day is enough for them to install signs, which actually makes sense (unlike a lot of other road construction project time frames) :-D
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 16, 2017, 12:40:20 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on November 15, 2017, 06:12:18 PM
Wow. That maybe one of the most rural outer perimeter interstates I've seen. I hope development follows the opening within the new year or so

Right!  That's what we need -- more exurban development.  Better to infill first before slapping down tracts next to an outer loop.  The pictures show a nice new road through a very nice-looking area; let's enjoy the open area while we all can before developers carve up the region!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jpi on November 16, 2017, 12:50:57 AM
So if this all opens next fall 2018, I may be hosting a road meet on this one around that time, my first hosted road meet in 2012 focused on some of the construction of this interstate.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 16, 2017, 02:06:07 AM
Quote from: jpi on November 16, 2017, 12:50:57 AM
So if this all opens next fall 2018, I may be hosting a road meet on this one around that time, my first hosted road meet in 2012 focused on some of the construction of this interstate.
From the pictures taken today, I believe this road (or a good section of I-269) will open before the fall.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: cjk374 on November 16, 2017, 06:41:55 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 16, 2017, 12:40:20 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on November 15, 2017, 06:12:18 PM
Wow. That maybe one of the most rural outer perimeter interstates I've seen. I hope development follows the opening within the new year or so

Right!  That's what we need -- more exurban development.  Better to infill first before slapping down tracts next to an outer loop.  The pictures show a nice new road through a very nice-looking area; let's enjoy the open area while we all can before developers carve up the region!

:clap: :clap: :clap:
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on November 17, 2017, 10:19:38 PM
While most of the small signs are in place it looks like there's still substantial work to be done at I-22 as of tonight: no overhead signs or advance BGSes are in place, the mainline striping is incomplete, etc.

Nothing that couldn't be knocked out in a few days (unless the posts for BGSes still need to be installed, since it'll take longer to cure the concrete - it was too dark to tell) but since it's likely MDOT told them not to do any work that might disrupt traffic Thanksgiving week I doubt it will open by the end of the month unless they plan to post some temporary signs.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 18, 2017, 01:51:29 AM
I received this email today from TDOT about I-22 connecting into Memphis and re signing I-269 in Tennessee. The first part was left out for the most part. Here is the email....

Jamie,

Thank you for your interest in the transportation system of the state of Tennessee.  The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) appreciates your concerns regarding the transportation system linking Memphis, TN with Birmingham, AL.  Included in the October 6, 2017 TDOT letting was a project for the installation of signs on the I-269 corridor from the Tennessee/Mississippi state-line to  S.R. 1 (U.S 70/79) north of I-40 in Shelby County, TN. This project will involve resigning existing S.R. 385 along this corridor. The project was awarded to Superior Traffic Control with a bid price of $589,553.30. The work for this project should begin within the next few months.

The purpose of the I-69 corridor is to link the US/Mexico border in southern Texas with the US/Canada border in Michigan. I-269 will serve as a  bypass around the east side of Memphis, TN for continuous traffic on I-69. A connection with I-22 will allow for several different traffic routes into and out of Memphis and surrounding areas.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact me.  My contact information is listed below.

Sincerely,

cid:image001.png@01D0ACCA.32B88870
Rachel Webb, P.E. | C.E. Manager 2
TDOT Region 4 Project Development
Building A, First Floor
300 Benchmark Place, Jackson, TN  38301
p.  731-935-0141       f. 731-935-0161
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 20, 2017, 08:48:25 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 18, 2017, 01:51:29 AM
I received this email today from TDOT about I-22 connecting into Memphis and re signing I-269 in Tennessee. The first part was left out for the most part. Here is the email....

Jamie,

Thank you for your interest in the transportation system of the state of Tennessee.  The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) appreciates your concerns regarding the transportation system linking Memphis, TN with Birmingham, AL.  Included in the October 6, 2017 TDOT letting was a project for the installation of signs on the I-269 corridor from the Tennessee/Mississippi state-line to  S.R. 1 (U.S 70/79) north of I-40 in Shelby County, TN. This project will involve resigning existing S.R. 385 along this corridor. The project was awarded to Superior Traffic Control with a bid price of $589,553.30. The work for this project should begin within the next few months.

The purpose of the I-69 corridor is to link the US/Mexico border in southern Texas with the US/Canada border in Michigan. I-269 will serve as a  bypass around the east side of Memphis, TN for continuous traffic on I-69. A connection with I-22 will allow for several different traffic routes into and out of Memphis and surrounding areas.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact me.  My contact information is listed below.

Sincerely,

cid:image001.png@01D0ACCA.32B88870
Rachel Webb, P.E. | C.E. Manager 2
TDOT Region 4 Project Development
Building A, First Floor
300 Benchmark Place, Jackson, TN  38301
p.  731-935-0141       f. 731-935-0161

Is it just me, or is ending I-269 (for now) at US 79 north of I-40 instead of at I-40 odd?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 20, 2017, 01:49:19 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on November 20, 2017, 08:48:25 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 18, 2017, 01:51:29 AM
I received this email today from TDOT about I-22 connecting into Memphis and re signing I-269 in Tennessee. The first part was left out for the most part. Here is the email....

Jamie,

Thank you for your interest in the transportation system of the state of Tennessee.  The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) appreciates your concerns regarding the transportation system linking Memphis, TN with Birmingham, AL.  Included in the October 6, 2017 TDOT letting was a project for the installation of signs on the I-269 corridor from the Tennessee/Mississippi state-line to  S.R. 1 (U.S 70/79) north of I-40 in Shelby County, TN. This project will involve resigning existing S.R. 385 along this corridor. The project was awarded to Superior Traffic Control with a bid price of $589,553.30. The work for this project should begin within the next few months.

The purpose of the I-69 corridor is to link the US/Mexico border in southern Texas with the US/Canada border in Michigan. I-269 will serve as a  bypass around the east side of Memphis, TN for continuous traffic on I-69. A connection with I-22 will allow for several different traffic routes into and out of Memphis and surrounding areas.

If you have any additional questions or concerns, please contact me.  My contact information is listed below.

Sincerely,

cid:image001.png@01D0ACCA.32B88870
Rachel Webb, P.E. | C.E. Manager 2
TDOT Region 4 Project Development
Building A, First Floor
300 Benchmark Place, Jackson, TN  38301
p.  731-935-0141       f. 731-935-0161

Is it just me, or is ending I-269 (for now) at US 79 north of I-40 instead of at I-40 odd?
My guess would be since all the signs will say 269 north Arlington, that they want to take 269 to the heart of Arlington and that's us 79. It's the first exit past I 40
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: dcharlie on November 20, 2017, 02:03:05 PM
Why aren't they signing it all the way to US 51?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 20, 2017, 02:36:26 PM
Quote from: dcharlie on November 20, 2017, 02:03:05 PM
Why aren't they signing it all the way to US 51?

I think this has been discussed previously, but it's unlikely that the E-W segment of TN 385 across the "northern tier" of Memphis will receive I-269 signage until funding for SIU 8 of I-69, which is the portion from TN 300 north to Dyersburg, is identified and projects on that corridor are actually let.  Whether that is TDOT's way to avoid questions about why that I-69 portion hasn't progressed or simply because the only connection to I-69, at least for the near term, will be the one in Hernando, MS is moot;  Interstate signage on that segment is functionally pointless until such time as I-69 itself becomes reality.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 20, 2017, 03:29:35 PM
Quote from: sparker on November 20, 2017, 02:36:26 PM
Quote from: dcharlie on November 20, 2017, 02:03:05 PM
Why aren't they signing it all the way to US 51?

I think this has been discussed previously, but it's unlikely that the E-W segment of TN 385 across the "northern tier" of Memphis will receive I-269 signage until funding for SIU 8 of I-69, which is the portion from TN 300 north to Dyersburg, is identified and projects on that corridor are actually let.  Whether that is TDOT's way to avoid questions about why that I-69 portion hasn't progressed or simply because the only connection to I-69, at least for the near term, will be the one in Hernando, MS is moot;  Interstate signage on that segment is functionally pointless until such time as I-69 itself becomes reality.
THIS also makes sense. There probably wont be a lot of traffic past that US 70 Arlington exit until i69 ever gets built. That could be decades away. It will also make I 269 roughly a 47 mile interstate for sometime to come.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on November 20, 2017, 03:45:06 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on November 20, 2017, 08:48:25 AM
Is it just me, or is ending I-269 (for now) at US 79 north of I-40 instead of at I-40 odd?

I-269 is only approved to I-40.

I assume the signing contract goes to US 70 because of the advance signage needed on southbound TN385 between I-40 and US 70, and perhaps because they'll want to sign the ramps for US70 » SB TN385 as "SOUTH 385 TO I-269"
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on November 20, 2017, 09:37:38 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on November 20, 2017, 03:45:06 PM
I-269 is only approved to I-40.

I assume the signing contract goes to US 70 because of the advance signage needed on southbound TN385 between I-40 and US 70, and perhaps because they'll want to sign the ramps for US70 » SB TN385 as "SOUTH 385 TO I-269"

FYI the signing plans are still online as linked previously in this thread; here's the link again: https://www.tdot.tn.gov/PublicDocuments//Construction/Design_CADD_Files/October%206,%202017%20Letting/Region%204/125391-00-RoadwayInfoOnly.pdf

I-269 will end for now just north of I-40, although from US 70 there will be at least one I-269 shield without a "TO" qualification on a BGS.

Interestingly enough neither Mississippi control city ("Tunica Miss" - which really doesn't need the state qualifier - or "Jackson Miss" - which does for rather obvious reasons) will actually be accessible until the complete road is open, so I wonder if TDOT will have them hold off on doing the signage changes until MDOT opens the section west of I-22. I'm also a little surprised neither Hernando nor Byhalia is being used for the more "local" destination signs instead of Tunica.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 21, 2017, 02:15:06 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 20, 2017, 09:37:38 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on November 20, 2017, 03:45:06 PM
I-269 is only approved to I-40.

I assume the signing contract goes to US 70 because of the advance signage needed on southbound TN385 between I-40 and US 70, and perhaps because they'll want to sign the ramps for US70 » SB TN385 as "SOUTH 385 TO I-269"

FYI the signing plans are still online as linked previously in this thread; here's the link again: https://www.tdot.tn.gov/PublicDocuments//Construction/Design_CADD_Files/October%206,%202017%20Letting/Region%204/125391-00-RoadwayInfoOnly.pdf

Interesting enough I emailed Rachael Webb at TDOT back today about this issue. (the lady who responded to my last email). I asked her exactly what the plans are with the official end of I-269 and plans for US 70. She emailed back saying I-269 will end as of now between I-40 and Arlington US70 exit. She said there will be an end I-269 sign and Start 385 North. However, on US 70 there will be a sign for the entrance ramp heading south that says 269 Tunica Miss. I'm not sure if that means they will start 269 South right at the exit ramp, or right past that. Even thought I-269 is ending past the I-40/I-269 junction, there will only be a 385 north sign on I 40. That's not much of a surprise.

I-269 will end for now just north of I-40, although from US 70 there will be at least one I-269 shield without a "TO" qualification on a BGS.

Interestingly enough neither Mississippi control city ("Tunica Miss" - which really doesn't need the state qualifier - or "Jackson Miss" - which does for rather obvious reasons) will actually be accessible until the complete road is open, so I wonder if TDOT will have them hold off on doing the signage changes until MDOT opens the section west of I-22. I'm also a little surprised neither Hernando nor Byhalia is being used for the more "local" destination signs instead of Tunica.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 21, 2017, 02:24:09 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 20, 2017, 09:37:38 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on November 20, 2017, 03:45:06 PM
I-269 is only approved to I-40.

I assume the signing contract goes to US 70 because of the advance signage needed on southbound TN385 between I-40 and US 70, and perhaps because they'll want to sign the ramps for US70 » SB TN385 as "SOUTH 385 TO I-269"

FYI the signing plans are still online as linked previously in this thread; here's the link again: https://www.tdot.tn.gov/PublicDocuments//Construction/Design_CADD_Files/October%206,%202017%20Letting/Region%204/125391-00-RoadwayInfoOnly.pdf

I-269 will end for now just north of I-40, although from US 70 there will be at least one I-269 shield without a "TO" qualification on a BGS.

Interestingly enough neither Mississippi control city ("Tunica Miss" - which really doesn't need the state qualifier - or "Jackson Miss" - which does for rather obvious reasons) will actually be accessible until the complete road is open, so I wonder if TDOT will have them hold off on doing the signage changes until MDOT opens the section west of I-22. I'm also a little surprised neither Hernando nor Byhalia is being used for the more "local" destination signs instead of Tunica.

Per Rachael WEbb with TDOT she said the signage will start in a few months.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 21, 2017, 08:07:10 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 20, 2017, 09:37:38 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on November 20, 2017, 03:45:06 PM
I-269 is only approved to I-40.

I assume the signing contract goes to US 70 because of the advance signage needed on southbound TN385 between I-40 and US 70, and perhaps because they'll want to sign the ramps for US70 » SB TN385 as "SOUTH 385 TO I-269"

FYI the signing plans are still online as linked previously in this thread; here's the link again: https://www.tdot.tn.gov/PublicDocuments//Construction/Design_CADD_Files/October%206,%202017%20Letting/Region%204/125391-00-RoadwayInfoOnly.pdf

I-269 will end for now just north of I-40, although from US 70 there will be at least one I-269 shield without a "TO" qualification on a BGS.

Interestingly enough neither Mississippi control city ("Tunica Miss" - which really doesn't need the state qualifier - or "Jackson Miss" - which does for rather obvious reasons) will actually be accessible until the complete road is open, so I wonder if TDOT will have them hold off on doing the signage changes until MDOT opens the section west of I-22. I'm also a little surprised neither Hernando nor Byhalia is being used for the more "local" destination signs instead of Tunica.

That make sense, the exits are close enough together that the Southbound lanes are effectively I-269 and will be signed as such, the Northbound lanes are effectively TN 385 and signed as such.

Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Henry on November 21, 2017, 09:36:26 AM
So I'm guessing that the northern section of the route will not get any I-269 signs until I-69 itself is constructed north of Memphis?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on November 21, 2017, 10:07:52 AM
Quote from: Henry on November 21, 2017, 09:36:26 AM
So I'm guessing that the northern section of the route will not get any I-269 signs until I-69 itself is constructed north of Memphis?

I would imagine that's the case, so in that case probably not in a million years.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 21, 2017, 02:57:53 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on November 21, 2017, 10:07:52 AM
Quote from: Henry on November 21, 2017, 09:36:26 AM
So I'm guessing that the northern section of the route will not get any I-269 signs until I-69 itself is constructed north of Memphis?

I would imagine that's the case, so in that case probably not in a million years.
I would say probably not in our lifetime. The only reason Tennessee decided to finish the I -69 from Kentucky to Dyersburg was to give I-69 interstate access to I-55, via I-155. At this point they might as well change the I-69 route to follow I-55 through Arkansas and into Memphis. I seriously doubt Tennessee will ever complete I-69 through west Tennessee.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on November 21, 2017, 04:34:24 PM
will 269 ever cross the mississippi?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 21, 2017, 04:50:15 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 21, 2017, 04:34:24 PM
will 269 ever cross the mississippi?

Not unless Arkansas elects to contribute $$ to their portion of a Memphis bypass (something that's held up the longstanding "3rd Bridge" concept); which means likely never. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: wdcrft63 on November 21, 2017, 06:30:04 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 21, 2017, 02:57:53 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on November 21, 2017, 10:07:52 AM
Quote from: Henry on November 21, 2017, 09:36:26 AM
So I'm guessing that the northern section of the route will not get any I-269 signs until I-69 itself is constructed north of Memphis?

I would imagine that's the case, so in that case probably not in a million years.
I would say probably not in our lifetime. The only reason Tennessee decided to finish the I -69 from Kentucky to Dyersburg was to give I-69 interstate access to I-55, via I-155. At this point they might as well change the I-69 route to follow I-55 through Arkansas and into Memphis. I seriously doubt Tennessee will ever complete I-69 through west Tennessee.
More likely there will just be a gap. I doubt the AASHTO will buy taking I-69 over to I-55.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Life in Paradise on November 21, 2017, 06:44:43 PM
I can't see Arkansas ever having enough money to put another bridge over the Mississippi.  They have I-57 to finish to the Missouri line (the least costly of their projects), I-69 from Mississippi (with bridge contrib) through Southern Arkansas, and I-49 through hilly Western Arkansas.  They also have the I-530 extender from Pine Bluff to I-69.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on November 21, 2017, 07:49:30 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 21, 2017, 02:57:53 PM
I would say probably not in our lifetime. The only reason Tennessee decided to finish the I -69 from Kentucky to Dyersburg was to give I-69 interstate access to I-55, via I-155. At this point they might as well change the I-69 route to follow I-55 through Arkansas and into Memphis. I seriously doubt Tennessee will ever complete I-69 through west Tennessee.

TDOT would seem to disagree, since several projects on I-69 between Millington and Dyersburg are in line for funding due to the IMPROVE Act.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on November 27, 2017, 05:29:53 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 17, 2017, 10:19:38 PM
While most of the small signs are in place it looks like there's still substantial work to be done at I-22 as of tonight: no overhead signs or advance BGSes are in place, the mainline striping is incomplete, etc.

Nothing that couldn't be knocked out in a few days (unless the posts for BGSes still need to be installed, since it'll take longer to cure the concrete - it was too dark to tell) but since it's likely MDOT told them not to do any work that might disrupt traffic Thanksgiving week I doubt it will open by the end of the month unless they plan to post some temporary signs.

Just to follow up, as of Sunday morning the process of installing BGSes was apparently interrupted by the holiday; a crane and a trailer with signs on it was parked on the I-269 eastbound C/D road over I-22. None of the guide signs seemed to be in place yet east/north of there, including the MS 309 interchange, but some of the overhead signs were in place west of the interchange already. The posts on the mainline I-22 for overhead signs were in place but the cross-beams and signs themselves weren't installed yet either. At MS 302 the striping wasn't yet in place either, so I guess the paint crew hadn't made it that far yet.

As far as timing is concerned, I don't know what MDOT's policy on flashing signals before they're activated is, but all of the new signals I saw (MS 302 at the northbound ramp, MS 309 at both ramps) were still covered and not in flash mode.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 28, 2017, 09:39:00 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 27, 2017, 05:29:53 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 17, 2017, 10:19:38 PM
While most of the small signs are in place it looks like there's still substantial work to be done at I-22 as of tonight: no overhead signs or advance BGSes are in place, the mainline striping is incomplete, etc.

Nothing that couldn't be knocked out in a few days (unless the posts for BGSes still need to be installed, since it'll take longer to cure the concrete - it was too dark to tell) but since it's likely MDOT told them not to do any work that might disrupt traffic Thanksgiving week I doubt it will open by the end of the month unless they plan to post some temporary signs.

Just to follow up, as of Sunday morning the process of installing BGSes was apparently interrupted by the holiday; a crane and a trailer with signs on it was parked on the I-269 eastbound C/D road over I-22. None of the guide signs seemed to be in place yet east/north of there, including the MS 309 interchange, but some of the overhead signs were in place west of the interchange already. The posts on the mainline I-22 for overhead signs were in place but the cross-beams and signs themselves weren't installed yet either. At MS 302 the striping wasn't yet in place either, so I guess the paint crew hadn't made it that far yet.

As far as timing is concerned, I don't know what MDOT's policy on flashing signals before they're activated is, but all of the new signals I saw (MS 302 at the northbound ramp, MS 309 at both ramps) were still covered and not in flash mode.

So, I'm guessing a November opening is too optimistic.   Given the number of signs probably involved and the painting that has to be done, I'm guessing early to mid-December.  Unless I am wrong, and they can accomplish more in three days than I think they can.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on November 28, 2017, 12:29:40 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on November 28, 2017, 09:39:00 AM
So, I'm guessing a November opening is too optimistic.   Given the number of signs probably involved and the painting that has to be done, I'm guessing early to mid-December.  Unless I am wrong, and they can accomplish more in three days than I think they can.

I just want to be able to drive a brand-spanking new interstate when I check in on my father just before Christmas.  :)
Title: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on November 29, 2017, 02:10:27 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on November 28, 2017, 09:39:00 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 27, 2017, 05:29:53 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 17, 2017, 10:19:38 PM
While most of the small signs are in place it looks like there's still substantial work to be done at I-22 as of tonight: no overhead signs or advance BGSes are in place, the mainline striping is incomplete, etc.

Nothing that couldn't be knocked out in a few days (unless the posts for BGSes still need to be installed, since it'll take longer to cure the concrete - it was too dark to tell) but since it's likely MDOT told them not to do any work that might disrupt traffic Thanksgiving week I doubt it will open by the end of the month unless they plan to post some temporary signs.

Just to follow up, as of Sunday morning the process of installing BGSes was apparently interrupted by the holiday; a crane and a trailer with signs on it was parked on the I-269 eastbound C/D road over I-22. None of the guide signs seemed to be in place yet east/north of there, including the MS 309 interchange, but some of the overhead signs were in place west of the interchange already. The posts on the mainline I-22 for overhead signs were in place but the cross-beams and signs themselves weren't installed yet either. At MS 302 the striping wasn't yet in place either, so I guess the paint crew hadn't made it that far yet.

As far as timing is concerned, I don't know what MDOT's policy on flashing signals before they're activated is, but all of the new signals I saw (MS 302 at the northbound ramp, MS 309 at both ramps) were still covered and not in flash mode.

So, I'm guessing a November opening is too optimistic.   Given the number of signs probably involved and the painting that has to be done, I'm guessing early to mid-December.  Unless I am wrong, and they can accomplish more in three days than I think they can.
I'm thinking the same thing. I'll be heading out to that area tomorrow to see if their statement is accurate or not. I did notice some large signs in place; however, not all of them were complete (i.e. signs on a trailer, masts only, etc.) Realistically, I'll probably expect a mid-December completion.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 29, 2017, 03:01:16 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on November 28, 2017, 12:29:40 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on November 28, 2017, 09:39:00 AM
So, I'm guessing a November opening is too optimistic.   Given the number of signs probably involved and the painting that has to be done, I'm guessing early to mid-December.  Unless I am wrong, and they can accomplish more in three days than I think they can.

I just want to be able to drive a brand-spanking new interstate when I check in on my father just before Christmas.  :)

"Hey Dad, I'm going to be in Memphis just before Christmas to drive on I-269, will you be home?  I might stop by to say hi."
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on November 30, 2017, 12:59:45 PM
Cue the "IT'S HAPPENING" GIF. Straight from the horse's mouth (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=2305&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2), as it were:

QuoteWHO:          Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert.   

WHAT:        Ribbon cutting ceremony for second completed section of Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall counties.

WHEN:        Tuesday, December 5, at 11 a.m.                                                             

WHERE:      North end of the I-269 bridge one and one-half miles south of State Route 302 in Marshall County.

WHY:         The ceremony will officially open the section of I-269 from State Route 302 to State Route 305 to traffic.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on November 30, 2017, 02:10:45 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 30, 2017, 12:59:45 PM
Cue the "IT'S HAPPENING" GIF. Straight from the horse's mouth (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=2305&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2), as it were:

QuoteWHO:          Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert.   

WHAT:        Ribbon cutting ceremony for second completed section of Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall counties.

WHEN:        Tuesday, December 5, at 11 a.m.                                                             

WHERE:      North end of the I-269 bridge one and one-half miles south of State Route 302 in Marshall County.

WHY:         The ceremony will officially open the section of I-269 from State Route 302 to State Route 305 to traffic.

Yay...?
Edit: oh it’s past 22. I don’t like that cloverleaf - clover leaves are known for accidents.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 30, 2017, 03:10:57 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on November 30, 2017, 02:10:45 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 30, 2017, 12:59:45 PM
Cue the "IT'S HAPPENING" GIF. Straight from the horse's mouth (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=2305&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2), as it were:

QuoteWHO:          Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert.   

WHAT:        Ribbon cutting ceremony for second completed section of Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall counties.

WHEN:        Tuesday, December 5, at 11 a.m.                                                             

WHERE:      North end of the I-269 bridge one and one-half miles south of State Route 302 in Marshall County.

WHY:         The ceremony will officially open the section of I-269 from State Route 302 to State Route 305 to traffic.

Yay...?
Edit: oh it's past 22. I don't like that cloverleaf - clover leaves are known for accidents.
I 269 Will have cloverleaves at all three interstate junctions. At I55, I22, and I40. The bad news is I believe rain is in the forecast for that day.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 30, 2017, 04:29:01 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 30, 2017, 03:10:57 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on November 30, 2017, 02:10:45 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 30, 2017, 12:59:45 PM
Cue the "IT'S HAPPENING" GIF. Straight from the horse's mouth (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=2305&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2), as it were:

QuoteWHO:          Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert.   

WHAT:        Ribbon cutting ceremony for second completed section of Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall counties.

WHEN:        Tuesday, December 5, at 11 a.m.                                                             

WHERE:      North end of the I-269 bridge one and one-half miles south of State Route 302 in Marshall County.

WHY:         The ceremony will officially open the section of I-269 from State Route 302 to State Route 305 to traffic.

Yay...?
Edit: oh it's past 22. I don't like that cloverleaf - clover leaves are known for accidents.
I 269 Will have cloverleaves at all three interstate junctions. At I55, I22, and I40. The bad news is I believe rain is in the forecast for that day.

At least the cloverleaf with I-22 will have full C/D lanes; that should somewhat mitigate major safety issues for the time being.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on November 30, 2017, 06:11:34 PM
I think the usefulness of this road is dubious at best.  especially in mississippi
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: wriddle082 on November 30, 2017, 07:36:20 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 30, 2017, 06:11:34 PM
I think the usefulness of this road is dubious at best.  especially in mississippi

It will allow Tunica-bound casino traffic coming from Nashville and points east to bypass pretty much all of Memphis.  Despite TDOT's best efforts in recent years, I-240 is a slog and has a pretty high accident rate.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 01, 2017, 12:34:54 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 30, 2017, 06:11:34 PM
I think the usefulness of this road is dubious at best.  especially in mississippi
I-269 between I-55 and I-22 once complete will be heavily traveled. It will connect Birmingham, Atlanta, the southeast US with the midwest and mid America. I'm sure I-269 between I-22 and I-40 wont see as much traffic. Yet there could be a lot of industrial traffic coming into Memphis that goes that route and connects with SR 385
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 01, 2017, 05:01:18 AM
Quote from: wriddle082 on November 30, 2017, 07:36:20 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 30, 2017, 06:11:34 PM
I think the usefulness of this road is dubious at best.  especially in mississippi

It will allow Tunica-bound casino traffic coming from Nashville and points east to bypass pretty much all of Memphis.  Despite TDOT's best efforts in recent years, I-240 is a slog and has a pretty high accident rate.
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 01, 2017, 12:34:54 AM
I-269 between I-55 and I-22 once complete will be heavily traveled. It will connect Birmingham, Atlanta, the southeast US with the midwest and mid America. I'm sure I-269 between I-22 and I-40 wont see as much traffic. Yet there could be a lot of industrial traffic coming into Memphis that goes that route and connects with SR 385

I-240 is one of those "original" bypasses that has been absorbed or inundated by the suburban areas of the metro region it serves; I-269, when fully connected to its parent and fully signed, will in fact be the de facto Memphis bypass route -- in fact, it will, if only partially, serve as such once completed west to I-55/69 in MS.  For the time being, the "northern tier" of the bypass solely signed as TN 385 won't fulfill much of its bypass role but simply be a local connection until such time as I-69 finally extends along or parallel to US 51.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 01, 2017, 11:29:17 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on November 30, 2017, 12:59:45 PM
Cue the "IT'S HAPPENING" GIF. Straight from the horse's mouth (http://sp.mdot.ms.gov/Public%20Affairs/Lists/News%20Releases/Item/displayifs.aspx?List=ae1b236c-924d-498c-b14e-aafec6dc2864&ID=2305&Source=http%3A%2F%2Fspgomdot%2FPublic%2520Affairs%2FPages%2FNews-Releases%2Easpx&ContentTypeId=0x010087606675CA7A95408B80E8BFBB944273&IsDlg=2), as it were:

QuoteWHO:          Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert.   

WHAT:        Ribbon cutting ceremony for second completed section of Interstate 269 in DeSoto and Marshall counties.

WHEN:        Tuesday, December 5, at 11 a.m.                                                             

WHERE:      North end of the I-269 bridge one and one-half miles south of State Route 302 in Marshall County.

WHY:         The ceremony will officially open the section of I-269 from State Route 302 to State Route 305 to traffic.

Given that a significant chunk of I-269, including a connection from I-22 to I-40 is opening up on Tuesday, several months early, I would have thought there would be at least one news item about the opening.  So far I've seen nothing.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 01, 2017, 12:28:44 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 01, 2017, 11:29:17 AM
Given that a significant chunk of I-269, including a connection from I-22 to I-40 is opening up on Tuesday, several month early, I would have thought there would be at least one news item about the opening.  So far I've seen nothing.

The Commercial Appeal was recently Gannett-ized, so they basically only have a dozen or so local reporters left and most of them do sports or lifestyle stuff. (I half-joke that it's really now more like the Memphis edition of the Nashville Tennesseean, given the number of stories that are reprinted from the latter.) So I wouldn't expect any coverage from them except maybe the day afterward.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 01, 2017, 05:35:18 PM
I would expect that there will be new pictures of the new facility forthcoming in this thread.  BTW, has there been any move toward erecting reassurance and trailblazer shields on the N-S TN 385 section up to I-40? -- one would expect that to occur in conjunction with the opening of the new segment!   
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 01, 2017, 07:55:05 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 01, 2017, 05:35:18 PM
I would expect that there will be new pictures of the new facility forthcoming in this thread.  BTW, has there been any move toward erecting reassurance and trailblazer shields on the N-S TN 385 section up to I-40? -- one would expect that to occur in conjunction with the opening of the new segment!

Per previous posts in the thread, Tennessee will be signing I-269 to I-40 in the next few months.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 05, 2017, 07:10:51 AM
Well, unless something major has gone wrong, a good chunk of I-269 will be open 5 hours from now.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on December 05, 2017, 07:32:26 AM
In the short term, I-269 will serve as a "true" bypass of the Memphis area.  In the long-term, DeSoto County is already salivating at the development prospects and has been for years...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 05, 2017, 09:27:21 AM
Quote from: froggie on December 05, 2017, 07:32:26 AM
In the short term, I-269 will serve as a "true" bypass of the Memphis area.  In the long-term, DeSoto County is already salivating at the development prospects and has been for years...

Well the portion opening today should take some traffic off of US 78 into Memphis, as any I-22 traffic going to and from the Eastern and Northern portions of the metro area will now take I-269 to get to I-22.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on December 05, 2017, 10:58:53 AM
For the time being I-269 is only going to work as a partial bypass of Memphis. Quite a bit more work would be needed for long distance traffic going through Memphis to get any bypass benefit from I-269. A new Mississippi River bridge built near the Tunica casinos and connecting to I-40 in Arkansas somewhere near Forrest City would allow I-269 to work as an I-40 Memphis bypass. Right now long distance I-40 traffic has no choice but to travel through Memphis. The bridge crossing by Tunica and another Mississippi River crossing West of Millington, TN would be needed for I-269 to work as an I-55 bypass. But that would cut through Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park and a whole lot of flood plain. It would be one really expensive (and controversial) bridge. The upshot is such a crossing would connect into I-55 in Arkansas near the I-555 terminus.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 05, 2017, 11:38:08 AM
I'm assuming that Westbound I-269 at I-22 is going to be marked "Local Traffic Only" until they get the last portion completed?
Title: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on December 05, 2017, 11:45:32 AM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 05, 2017, 11:38:08 AM
I'm assuming that Westbound I-269 at I-22 is going to be marked "Local Traffic Only" until they get the last portion completed?
Thankfully, no. I drove by there the other day and they have signs that say I-269 south; however, they are holding off on the control city until the link to I-55 is completed. I hate how 269 south at SR 385's eastern terminus in Collierville has been marked "local traffic"  for the past few years. Also, that interchange has one of the worst looking APL signs I've ever seen.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: wriddle082 on December 05, 2017, 12:02:03 PM
Quote from: Brooks on December 05, 2017, 11:45:32 AM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 05, 2017, 11:38:08 AM
I'm assuming that Westbound I-269 at I-22 is going to be marked "Local Traffic Only" until they get the last portion completed?
Thankfully, no. I drove by there the other day and they have signs that say I-269 south; however, they are holding off on the control city until the link to I-55 is completed. I hate how 269 south at SR 385's eastern terminus in Collierville has been marked "local traffic"  for the past few years. That interchange also had one of the worst looking APL signs I've ever seen.

TDOT using "LOCAL TRAFFIC" as a temporary control point on unfinished freeways is SOP for TDOT.  TN 840 (now I-840) east from I-40 in Dickson had "LOCAL TRAFFIC" as well as possibly a few other sections as it was being built.  Many years ago (1986) I-440 west b/w I-24 and I-65 had it as well until the road was finished to I-40 in 1987.  May also have been used on I-140 south of Knoxville as it was being built in the 90's.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 05, 2017, 12:39:32 PM
I will be off on Friday and will take pics and video of the new I-269. I'm not sure if anyone else locally will have a chance before Friday. I'm really excited! Does anyone know what cities are listed on the I-269 north sign at I-22/hwy78?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 05, 2017, 01:03:58 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 05, 2017, 12:39:32 PM
I will be off on Friday and will take pics and video of the new I-269. I'm not sure if anyone else locally will have a chance before Friday. I'm really excited! Does anyone know what cities are listed on the I-269 north sign at I-22/hwy78?

According to the signage plans, it's signed for Collierville (south/westbound it's planned to be signed for Tunica).

https://twitter.com/MikeTagert/status/938093991366676481

As far as the opening goes, except for a few mentions on Twitter there's really no coverage of the opening yet. I just made it live in OpenStreetMap a few minutes ago (it'll take a little while for the tiles to update fully).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 05, 2017, 01:21:34 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on December 05, 2017, 01:03:58 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 05, 2017, 12:39:32 PM
I will be off on Friday and will take pics and video of the new I-269. I'm not sure if anyone else locally will have a chance before Friday. I'm really excited! Does anyone know what cities are listed on the I-269 north sign at I-22/hwy78?

According to the signage plans, it's signed for Collierville (south/westbound it's planned to be signed for Tunica).

https://twitter.com/MikeTagert/status/938093991366676481

As far as the opening goes, except for a few mentions on Twitter there's really no coverage of the opening yet. I just made it live in OpenStreetMap a few minutes ago (it'll take a little while for the tiles to update fully).
Just went over there and looks like it's filled in! I'm kind of surprised control signs for 269 South wont say Memphis with Tunica. Since I-22 will be ending at the I269 JCT, i'm sure Miss. wants to make sure traffic flows via I55/I69 into Memphis when the time comes.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Avalanchez71 on December 05, 2017, 01:33:38 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 01, 2017, 07:55:05 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 01, 2017, 05:35:18 PM
I would expect that there will be new pictures of the new facility forthcoming in this thread.  BTW, has there been any move toward erecting reassurance and trailblazer shields on the N-S TN 385 section up to I-40? -- one would expect that to occur in conjunction with the opening of the new segment!

Per previous posts in the thread, Tennessee will be signing I-269 to I-40 in the next few months.

The state is pillaging us now with the gas tax increase.  This is what they are doing with our funds renumbering an existing roadway.   :-|
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 05, 2017, 01:40:51 PM
Quote from: Avalanchez71 on December 05, 2017, 01:33:38 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 01, 2017, 07:55:05 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 01, 2017, 05:35:18 PM
I would expect that there will be new pictures of the new facility forthcoming in this thread.  BTW, has there been any move toward erecting reassurance and trailblazer shields on the N-S TN 385 section up to I-40? -- one would expect that to occur in conjunction with the opening of the new segment!

Per previous posts in the thread, Tennessee will be signing I-269 to I-40 in the next few months.

The state is pillaging us now with the gas tax increase.  This is what they are doing with our funds renumbering an existing roadway.   :-|

Resigning, for route continuity, a highway where it was already planned for, is far from an illegitimate use of public funds
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 05, 2017, 02:13:25 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 05, 2017, 01:21:34 PM
Just went over there and looks like it's filled in! I'm kind of surprised control signs for 269 South wont say Memphis with Tunica. Since I-22 will be ending at the I269 JCT, i'm sure Miss. wants to make sure traffic flows via I55/I69 into Memphis when the time comes.

I don't think Mississippi cares very much if traffic ends up backing up on Lamar. MDOT presumably wants it upgraded far more than TDOT does, since from Tennessee's perspective a freeway connection from the state line to I-240 just makes it easier for people to move to Olive Branch (and Memphis is losing enough people anyway).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on December 05, 2017, 02:30:35 PM
I'm thinking it's open now..?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 05, 2017, 02:37:58 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on December 05, 2017, 02:13:25 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 05, 2017, 01:21:34 PM
Just went over there and looks like it's filled in! I'm kind of surprised control signs for 269 South wont say Memphis with Tunica. Since I-22 will be ending at the I269 JCT, i'm sure Miss. wants to make sure traffic flows via I55/I69 into Memphis when the time comes.

I don't think Mississippi cares very much if traffic ends up backing up on Lamar. MDOT presumably wants it upgraded far more than TDOT does, since from Tennessee's perspective a freeway connection from the state line to I-240 just makes it easier for people to move to Olive Branch (and Memphis is losing enough people anyway).
Southaven, Horn Lake mayors have all said they want the traffic, because it brings money/development, exc. That's what I was getting at. There are plans to being a huge widening of I55/I69 from the I/269 junction north to the state line. They also want traffic heading towards Tunica. That's why i'm surprised they didn't have Memphis listed.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: dcharlie on December 05, 2017, 03:12:30 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 05, 2017, 02:30:35 PM
I'm thinking it's open now..?

I'm looking at the MDOT Traffic camera site (https://www.mdottraffic.com/) and I see some traffic but not much. so not sure if it is open.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 05, 2017, 03:55:07 PM
Quote from: dcharlie on December 05, 2017, 03:12:30 PM
I'm looking at the MDOT Traffic camera site (https://www.mdottraffic.com/) and I see some traffic but not much. so not sure if it is open.

If you click on the VMSes, most of them say "I-269 NOW OPEN MS 305 TO TN." So I'm pretty sure it's open.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 05, 2017, 04:17:37 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 05, 2017, 02:37:58 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on December 05, 2017, 02:13:25 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 05, 2017, 01:21:34 PM
Just went over there and looks like it's filled in! I'm kind of surprised control signs for 269 South wont say Memphis with Tunica. Since I-22 will be ending at the I269 JCT, i'm sure Miss. wants to make sure traffic flows via I55/I69 into Memphis when the time comes.

I don't think Mississippi cares very much if traffic ends up backing up on Lamar. MDOT presumably wants it upgraded far more than TDOT does, since from Tennessee's perspective a freeway connection from the state line to I-240 just makes it easier for people to move to Olive Branch (and Memphis is losing enough people anyway).
Southaven, Horn Lake mayors have all said they want the traffic, because it brings money/development, exc. That's what I was getting at. There are plans to being a huge widening of I55/I69 from the I/269 junction north to the state line. They also want traffic heading towards Tunica. That's why i'm surprised they didn't have Memphis listed.

Whenever an extended metro area crosses a state line, there's almost inevitably a clash between jurisdictions regarding priorities, funding, and political benefit; when I was living in Portland in the mid-90's, there were plans to take the northern (Interstate Ave.) LR branch over the Columbia into Vancouver, WA with a later phase extending the facility to Battle Ground a bit northeast of there; in '94 a measure was on the Clark County (WA) ballot to provide funding for this project.  It was soundly defeated (IIRC, about 68%-32%); the opponents cited loss of local autonomy and possible gentrification of the LR station areas which might displace long-time residents as their prime objections -- but someone in their number had taken out a TV ad citing the LR extension as a convenient way for Portland street criminals to expand their territory (a bit of a stretch).  Nevertheless, the gist was that Clark County interests didn't want the Portland Metro agency to get a foot through the door via LR -- although that agency had zero legal prerogative north of the state line; the trackage in WA was to be owned by Clark County and leased to and operated by Portland.   But distrust of the other's motives seems to be par for the course in inter-state projects.

In the case of Lamar Ave., it seems to be more or less a case of relative disinterest (in a perfect world with constant funding figuring out a way to deploy an Interstate-grade freeway along Lamar wouldn't pose a problem) due to, as has been said, limited benefits accruing to Memphis itself.  Also, with the development along that corridor, there's no place to put a freeway without a disproportionately large expenditure.  Besides, with the presence of I-269 -- particularly when finished to I-55/69 -- the problem of getting I-22 traffic into Memphis itself or beyond will be functionally solved without TNDOT having to lay out a dime; their only programmed expenditure would be the short stretch from the border to TN 385 (the latter likely effectively amortized by this time).  It's a win-win situation for both states -- MS gets the developmental potential from Hernando to Byhalia, TNDOT gets an effective way to get traffic from east I-40 to south I-55 away from both I-240 and the downtown freeway network -- and until the inevitable grouses down the line about the slower-speed connections within the cloverleaves at both the 55/69/269 and 22/269 junctions start piling up, the system, once that last link is completed, is quite functional.   
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on December 05, 2017, 06:25:41 PM
Tunica has less than 1k residents, is that really worth control city status?  Also, why not route 22 up 269, then throw it onto 385? then there's no need to upgrade 78. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: wriddle082 on December 05, 2017, 06:55:13 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 05, 2017, 06:25:41 PM
Tunica has less than 1k residents, is that really worth control city status?  Also, why not route 22 up 269, then throw it onto 385? then there's no need to upgrade 78. 

Despite Tunica's lack of permanent residents, it's a popular tourist destination; therefore it has earned control city status.

And I suppose routing 22 up 269 to 385 is definitely not out of the realm of possibility.  But it would still be a 2di ending at a 3di, but a different one than before.  I think Germantown or Collierville could care less if they are served by a 2di, and they might appreciate the long haul traffic NOT being routed along 385.

Anyway, Lamar Ave is essentially a destination for a lot of the truck traffic in the area.  Memphis is known as "America's Distribution Center", and many of these disto centers are located along Lamar, which is not far from the airport and FedEx.  As for the regular auto traffic, many of those folks may very well end up taking 269 to 385, especially if their smartphone-based mappng apps detect backups on Lamar.

The main outcome from all of this is that 269 gives Greater Memphis more options, which is a lot more than can be said of other major metro areas, namely the one at the other end of I-22, and an even bigger one further east.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on December 05, 2017, 07:28:40 PM
That is a damn good point about 269. Too many people live in the metro area to the east and I think companies from up north will now consider Memphis as a relocation option due to the better overall logistics options in the area
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on December 05, 2017, 09:00:17 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 05, 2017, 01:21:34 PM
Just went over there and looks like it's filled in! I'm kind of surprised control signs for 269 South wont say Memphis with Tunica. Since I-22 will be ending at the I269 JCT, i'm sure Miss. wants to make sure traffic flows via I55/I69 into Memphis when the time comes.

I think that by the time northwestbound traffic reaches the I-22/I-269 interchange, you run into the question of "which part of Memphis?" 

If you're destined for downtown Memphis (or for Graceland), then taking I-269 west to I-55 is the logical routing.

If you're destined for the defacto primary business district near Poplar (US 72) and I-240, then I-269 north to TN 385 west is the logical routing.

If you're destined for the multimodal facility and distribution centers along Lamar, then you want to stay on US 78.

The logical options for control cities are Tunica (current terminus of I-69 south), Little Rock (control for I-40 west), or St. Louis (control for I-55 north). 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Hot Rod Hootenanny on December 05, 2017, 09:52:13 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 05, 2017, 06:25:41 PM
Tunica has less than 1k residents, is that really worth control city status?  Also, why not route 22 up 269, then throw it onto 385? then there's no need to upgrade 78. 

I think this sign alone is worth "interstate control city" status for Tunica.
(https://web.archive.org/web/20130115213453im_/http://www.roadfan.com/Mississippi/tunica2.JPG)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on December 05, 2017, 10:38:59 PM
Why are people poo-pooing on Tunica? No one goes there to visit the town. They go to the casino strip there which a lot of people from Atlanta, northern Alabama, west Tennessee, Arkansas and SE Missouri go to often, therefore that 1000 population number is irrelevant. Go visit Tunica on a weekend. 269 is great for the areas economy/commerce
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 06, 2017, 01:32:41 AM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on December 05, 2017, 09:52:13 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 05, 2017, 06:25:41 PM
Tunica has less than 1k residents, is that really worth control city status?  Also, why not route 22 up 269, then throw it onto 385? then there's no need to upgrade 78. 

I think this sign alone is worth "interstate control city" status for Tunica.
(https://web.archive.org/web/20130115213453im_/http://www.roadfan.com/Mississippi/tunica2.JPG)
[/qu(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fd1marr3m5x4iac.cloudfront.net%2Fimages%2Foriginal%2FI0-001%2F003%2F348%2F468-9.jpeg_%2Fgold-strike-casino-resort-68.jpeg&hash=544efa5ecdcbe5e35e9364c87472955f2c9f912d)ote]
I noticed you picked that picture, but didn't use one of the 9 casinos there (the third largest casino market in the nation)...just saying. In fairness, maybe the sign should say Tunica Resorts. Since that's what the official name of the town is now.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 06, 2017, 01:51:06 AM
I did want to link one memphis local news station coverage about the opening of I-269
http://www.fox13memphis.com/top-stories/mississippi-getting-ready-for-brand-new-interstates-on-i-269/659021351
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on December 06, 2017, 10:01:05 AM
Quote from: dcharlie on December 05, 2017, 03:12:30 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 05, 2017, 02:30:35 PM
I'm thinking it's open now..?

I'm looking at the MDOT Traffic camera site (https://www.mdottraffic.com/) and I see some traffic but not much. so not sure if it is open.
Just saw a car fly by. It's open
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 06, 2017, 12:56:07 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 06, 2017, 10:01:05 AM
Quote from: dcharlie on December 05, 2017, 03:12:30 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 05, 2017, 02:30:35 PM
I'm thinking it's open now..?

I'm looking at the MDOT Traffic camera site (https://www.mdottraffic.com/) and I see some traffic but not much. so not sure if it is open.
Just saw a car fly by. It's open
live paving work is going on west of 305 and can be seen on mdot cam ptz 269 west of 305  mobile.mdottraffic.com
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Hot Rod Hootenanny on December 06, 2017, 09:38:32 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 06, 2017, 01:32:41 AM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on December 05, 2017, 09:52:13 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 05, 2017, 06:25:41 PM
Tunica has less than 1k residents, is that really worth control city status?  Also, why not route 22 up 269, then throw it onto 385? then there's no need to upgrade 78. 

I think this sign alone is worth "interstate control city" status for Tunica.
(https://web.archive.org/web/20130115213453im_/http://www.roadfan.com/Mississippi/tunica2.JPG)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fd1marr3m5x4iac.cloudfront.net%2Fimages%2Foriginal%2FI0-001%2F003%2F348%2F468-9.jpeg_%2Fgold-strike-casino-resort-68.jpeg&hash=544efa5ecdcbe5e35e9364c87472955f2c9f912d)
I noticed you picked that picture, but didn't use one of the 9 casinos there (the third largest casino market in the nation)...just saying. In fairness, maybe the sign should say Tunica Resorts. Since that's what the official name of the town is now.

What can I say, I like using MY photos.
But the real reason I skipped the casinos is because I was under the impression that they were going out of business.
https://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/01/us/harrahs-tunica-casino-to-close-hinting-at-gambling-glut.html
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 06, 2017, 10:22:10 PM
I doubt they'd ever all go out of business but certainly there's been some consolidation in the market as additional gambling options have become available (Southland in West Memphis, for example, not to mention the Tennessee lottery).

Harrah's problem was being way overbuilt for the market with 3 separate hotels, and to some extent getting too greedy - they seemed to think having the prime location nearest Memphis in the former Grand property meant they could run a very tight casino like they were the Luxor or something on the Vegas strip. But once you've been in the car for 30-40 minutes, an extra 5 or 10 to get somewhere with better comps and better odds isn't going to be much of a deterrent.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 07, 2017, 01:29:01 AM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on December 06, 2017, 09:38:32 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 06, 2017, 01:32:41 AM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on December 05, 2017, 09:52:13 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 05, 2017, 06:25:41 PM
Tunica has less than 1k residents, is that really worth control city status?  Also, why not route 22 up 269, then throw it onto 385? then there's no need to upgrade 78. 

I think this sign alone is worth "interstate control city" status for Tunica.
(https://web.archive.org/web/20130115213453im_/http://www.roadfan.com/Mississippi/tunica2.JPG)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fd1marr3m5x4iac.cloudfront.net%2Fimages%2Foriginal%2FI0-001%2F003%2F348%2F468-9.jpeg_%2Fgold-strike-casino-resort-68.jpeg&hash=544efa5ecdcbe5e35e9364c87472955f2c9f912d)
I noticed you picked that picture, but didn't use one of the 9 casinos there (the third largest casino market in the nation)...just saying. In fairness, maybe the sign should say Tunica Resorts. Since that's what the official name of the town is now.

What can I say, I like using MY photos.
But the real reason I skipped the casinos is because I was under the impression that they were going out of business.
https://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/01/us/harrahs-tunica-casino-to-close-hinting-at-gambling-glut.html

Yeah, one casino closing doesn't mean there are plans to shut them all down. Casino center stays quite busy and I don't think that will happen anytime soon.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.depouw.com%2Fprojects%2F13%2Flarge%2FB-Horseshoe.jpg&hash=f99d5f791d57de1b330450da83e3e3b8e387eb78)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Hurricane Rex on December 07, 2017, 01:43:33 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 07, 2017, 01:29:01 AM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on December 06, 2017, 09:38:32 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 06, 2017, 01:32:41 AM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on December 05, 2017, 09:52:13 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 05, 2017, 06:25:41 PM
Tunica has less than 1k residents, is that really worth control city status?  Also, why not route 22 up 269, then throw it onto 385? then there's no need to upgrade 78. 

I think this sign alone is worth "interstate control city" status for Tunica.
(https://web.archive.org/web/20130115213453im_/http://www.roadfan.com/Mississippi/tunica2.JPG)
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fd1marr3m5x4iac.cloudfront.net%2Fimages%2Foriginal%2FI0-001%2F003%2F348%2F468-9.jpeg_%2Fgold-strike-casino-resort-68.jpeg&hash=544efa5ecdcbe5e35e9364c87472955f2c9f912d)
I noticed you picked that picture, but didn't use one of the 9 casinos there (the third largest casino market in the nation)...just saying. In fairness, maybe the sign should say Tunica Resorts. Since that's what the official name of the town is now.

What can I say, I like using MY photos.
But the real reason I skipped the casinos is because I was under the impression that they were going out of business.
https://www.nytimes.com/2014/06/01/us/harrahs-tunica-casino-to-close-hinting-at-gambling-glut.html

Yeah, one casino closing doesn't mean there are plans to shut them all down. Casino center stays quite busy and I don't think that will happen anytime soon.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.depouw.com%2Fprojects%2F13%2Flarge%2FB-Horseshoe.jpg&hash=f99d5f791d57de1b330450da83e3e3b8e387eb78)
And the gambling industry is and will continue to be huge. A lot of people still have addiction problems. If it was a smaller market, this could be a different story.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 08, 2017, 12:11:52 PM
I-269 Opening acknowledge by local media...

DeSoto County I-269 segment now open
By BOB BAKKEN Staff Writer Dec 6, 2017 Updated Dec 6, 2017

Another part of what will become the I-269 loop from I-55 north of Hernando east toward Lewisburg and on into Marshall County, ending at Tennessee Highway 385 near Collierville, Tenn., is officially open for use.

A ceremonial ribbon-cutting event was held in Byhalia Tuesday morning, to officially declare the roadway open.

It is the second of three segments of the interstate to now carry traffic. The first, from state Highway 302 north into Tennessee, has been used since October 2015.

This latest segment to be opened goes from north of Lewisburg at the state Highway 305 exit, then heads east and north into Marshall County and the current segment available north of state Highway 302 east of Barton.

Northern District Transportation Commissioner Mike Tagert, speaking Tuesday after the opening of the new roadway, said the entire completion of the interstate is about 12 months away.

"When we broke on the project in 2011, we anticipated the fall of 2019 for completion of the entire connector,"  Tagert said. "We anticipate the final segment from I-55 to 305 open in the fall of 2018. We're about a year ahead of schedule and barring any major catastrophic weather events, we should be able to finish the entire project at this time next year."

Tagert pointed out that, while this is an expensive project to get done, the overall benefit from the new interstate will help spur growth in the DeSoto-Marshall County area.

"This project is being built to the highest standards, which are federal interstate standards, which accommodate the greatest truck movement and the greatest weight movement in our country, and North America for that matter, Canada through the United States down to Mexico,"  said Tagert. "These projects are particularly costly, but they have such an incredible return on that investment, which I think DeSoto and Marshall counties, and the state, will immediately realize. The total price tag on the major overall number for this work is approximately $600 million."

Many officials, including Tagert, feel I-269 should accelerate growth and provide safer roadways elsewhere in the Mid-South region, as more semitrailer trucks and other such vehicles look to the roadway as a better alternative through the Mid-South to other parts of the country.

"It will be tremendous asset in economic development and attracting new business and manufacturing to the county,"  Tagert said. "Something that sometimes gets overlooked is the vast safety improvements that this route will provide. It will really incrementally relieve some pressure on a lot of our local access roads, both within the municipalities and the county itself."

In his comments about the interstate section being opened during Tuesday night's Southaven Board of Aldermen meeting, Mayor Darren Musselwhite acknowledged again the importance of the connection.

"That'll be huge for our community and the county,"  Musselwhite said. "With economic development and it will give some relief to I-55 and the Church Road area. That will relieve some of the traffic because you'll be able to bypass the area by hitting I-269. It's a big deal."

DeSoto County Board of Supervisors President Michael Lee also noted how the roadway makes the entire county more open to travelers coming through the county.

"I-269 will make DeSoto County much more accessible to those in the region and will generate new and exciting economic opportunities due to ease of access,"  Lee said.

Tagert added his thanks to local partnerships that helped keep the I-269 construction work top of mind to completion.

"This would not have been possible without a significant team effort between the municipalities, Marshall and DeSoto counties, and between the counties themselves,"  Tagert said.

Bob Bakken is Staff Writer and may be reached at 662-429-6397 ext. 240.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on December 08, 2017, 06:18:00 PM
so does I-22 officially end at I-269 now?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 08, 2017, 06:39:56 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 08, 2017, 06:18:00 PM
so does I-22 officially end at I-269 now?

According to the FHWA Interstate log; it has at least from the last "accounting"; there are 106.00 miles listed within MS; backing that off from the AL state line brings it right to the I-269 interchange in Byhalia.  Interstate-Guide.com agrees, citing Byhalia as the west terminus.  IIRC from previous pix, there are "END I-22" shield assemblies WB at the interchange as well; and according to the signage plans for I-269 at that location, only the EB US 78 freeway is co-signed as I-22.  IMO, collectively that pretty much nails down that interchange as the west end of I-22. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 08, 2017, 08:11:12 PM
New article on I-269 from The Commercial Appeal....http://www.commercialappeal.com/story/money/business/development/2017/12/08/memphis-byhalia-nonstop-269-and-22-now-intersect/930196001/
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 09, 2017, 01:59:02 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 08, 2017, 08:11:12 PM
New article on I-269 from The Commercial Appeal....http://www.commercialappeal.com/story/money/business/development/2017/12/08/memphis-byhalia-nonstop-269-and-22-now-intersect/930196001/

The circus music sort of ruined that visual story.  Even "New Age" vapidity would have been better!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on December 09, 2017, 11:47:29 AM
Quote from: sparker on December 09, 2017, 01:59:02 AMThe circus music sort of ruined that visual story.  Even "New Age" vapidity would have been better!

It's Gannett.  What do you expect?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 09, 2017, 01:49:46 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on December 09, 2017, 11:47:29 AM
Quote from: sparker on December 09, 2017, 01:59:02 AMThe circus music sort of ruined that visual story.  Even "New Age" vapidity would have been better!

It's Gannett.  What do you expect?

Yakety Sax?

High speed video.  Only thing it was missing was a Benny Hill chase...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on December 09, 2017, 02:39:00 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 08, 2017, 06:39:56 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 08, 2017, 06:18:00 PM
so does I-22 officially end at I-269 now?

According to the FHWA Interstate log; it has at least from the last "accounting"; there are 106.00 miles listed within MS; backing that off from the AL state line brings it right to the I-269 interchange in Byhalia.  Interstate-Guide.com agrees, citing Byhalia as the west terminus.  IIRC from previous pix, there are "END I-22" shield assemblies WB at the interchange as well; and according to the signage plans for I-269 at that location, only the EB US 78 freeway is co-signed as I-22.  IMO, collectively that pretty much nails down that interchange as the west end of I-22. 

The last I-22 signs were just west of Byhalia/ MS 309 as of October 2016, though that has likely changed now. Hopefully, I can get out that way sometime soon and do some research.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 09, 2017, 08:11:34 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 09, 2017, 02:39:00 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 08, 2017, 06:39:56 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 08, 2017, 06:18:00 PM
so does I-22 officially end at I-269 now?

According to the FHWA Interstate log; it has at least from the last "accounting"; there are 106.00 miles listed within MS; backing that off from the AL state line brings it right to the I-269 interchange in Byhalia.  Interstate-Guide.com agrees, citing Byhalia as the west terminus.  IIRC from previous pix, there are "END I-22" shield assemblies WB at the interchange as well; and according to the signage plans for I-269 at that location, only the EB US 78 freeway is co-signed as I-22.  IMO, collectively that pretty much nails down that interchange as the west end of I-22. 

The last I-22 signs were just west of Byhalia/ MS 309 as of October 2016, though that has likely changed now. Hopefully, I can get out that way sometime soon and do some research.

There is an end I 22 shield under the I 269 south bound bridge.

(fixed quote)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on December 09, 2017, 08:22:46 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 09, 2017, 08:11:34 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 09, 2017, 02:39:00 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 08, 2017, 06:39:56 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 08, 2017, 06:18:00 PM
so does I-22 officially end at I-269 now?

According to the FHWA Interstate log; it has at least from the last "accounting"; there are 106.00 miles listed within MS; backing that off from the AL state line brings it right to the I-269 interchange in Byhalia.  Interstate-Guide.com agrees, citing Byhalia as the west terminus.  IIRC from previous pix, there are "END I-22" shield assemblies WB at the interchange as well; and according to the signage plans for I-269 at that location, only the EB US 78 freeway is co-signed as I-22.  IMO, collectively that pretty much nails down that interchange as the west end of I-22. 

The last I-22 signs were just west of Byhalia/ MS 309 as of October 2016, though that has likely changed now. Hopefully, I can get out that way sometime soon and do some research.

There is an end I 22 shield under the I 269 south bound bridge.


How recent?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on December 09, 2017, 08:38:53 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 09, 2017, 08:22:46 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 09, 2017, 08:11:34 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 09, 2017, 02:39:00 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 08, 2017, 06:39:56 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 08, 2017, 06:18:00 PM
so does I-22 officially end at I-269 now?

According to the FHWA Interstate log; it has at least from the last "accounting"; there are 106.00 miles listed within MS; backing that off from the AL state line brings it right to the I-269 interchange in Byhalia.  Interstate-Guide.com agrees, citing Byhalia as the west terminus.  IIRC from previous pix, there are "END I-22" shield assemblies WB at the interchange as well; and according to the signage plans for I-269 at that location, only the EB US 78 freeway is co-signed as I-22.  IMO, collectively that pretty much nails down that interchange as the west end of I-22. 

The last I-22 signs were just west of Byhalia/ MS 309 as of October 2016, though that has likely changed now. Hopefully, I can get out that way sometime soon and do some research.

There is an end I 22 shield under the I 269 south bound bridge.


How recent?
I've been out there within the last 3 days and I can confirm that there is an end 22 sign headed west and a begin 22 sign headed east.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 10, 2017, 02:51:56 AM
Quote from: Brooks on December 09, 2017, 08:38:53 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 09, 2017, 08:22:46 PM
How recent?
I've been out there within the last 3 days and I can confirm that there is an end 22 sign headed west and a begin 22 sign headed east.

Both were posted by November 17th; they were part of the signage contract for I-269, as discussed earlier in this thread. They're midway between the two mainline bridges carrying I-269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on December 10, 2017, 12:45:18 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on December 10, 2017, 02:51:56 AM
Quote from: Brooks on December 09, 2017, 08:38:53 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 09, 2017, 08:22:46 PM
How recent?
I've been out there within the last 3 days and I can confirm that there is an end 22 sign headed west and a begin 22 sign headed east.

Both were posted by November 17th; they were part of the signage contract for I-269, as discussed earlier in this thread. They're midway between the two mainline bridges carrying I-269.

I was out of town the week of the 17th, so I must have missed that memo
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on December 11, 2017, 11:15:31 AM
I'm confused... does I-269 run from MS 305 to TN 385 or I-40?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on December 11, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 11, 2017, 11:15:31 AM
I'm confused... does I-269 run from MS 305 to TN 385 or I-40?
I-269 is designated all the way to I-40; however, until TDOT gets off their asses and changes the signs, 269 ends at 385. In a perfect world, the designation and signage would extend all the way to US 51 in Millington.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 11, 2017, 02:16:06 PM
Quote from: Brooks on December 11, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 11, 2017, 11:15:31 AM
I'm confused... does I-269 run from MS 305 to TN 385 or I-40?
I-269 is designated all the way to I-40; however, until TDOT gets off their asses and changes the signs, 269 ends at 385. In a perfect world, the designation and signage would extend all the way to US 51 in Millington.

To be fair, TDOT has out the signing project out for bids, I do not know if it has been awarded.  The signs for I-269 up to I-40 and US 70 should be posted in Q1 or Q2 of 2018.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 11, 2017, 05:04:51 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 11, 2017, 02:16:06 PM
Quote from: Brooks on December 11, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 11, 2017, 11:15:31 AM
I'm confused... does I-269 run from MS 305 to TN 385 or I-40?
I-269 is designated all the way to I-40; however, until TDOT gets off their asses and changes the signs, 269 ends at 385. In a perfect world, the designation and signage would extend all the way to US 51 in Millington.

To be fair, TDOT has out the signing project out for bids, I do not know if it has been awarded.  The signs for I-269 up to I-40 and US 70 should be posted in Q1 or Q2 of 2018.
Yes it has. I posted the email i received from TDOT in a previous post. New i 269 signage will start at US 70 and go to the state line. Signage should begin within the next few months
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 13, 2017, 03:33:51 PM
Just in case people didn't know, it looks like thee will be an extra exit on I-269. The original plans didn't call for an interchange with McIngvale Road. Now the road will be the first I-269 exit past the I-55/69/269 interchange. http://www.desototimes.com/news/i--mcingvale-exit-on-target/article_389b66ae-755f-11e6-bcce-c76964f147da.html and here is a map with plans for the interchange. https://www.flickr.com/photos/130271900@N03/27497230004
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: dcharlie on December 13, 2017, 03:40:59 PM
So, why is it going to take almost a year to pave and sign the last 5 or 6 miles?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 13, 2017, 03:56:31 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 13, 2017, 03:33:51 PM
Just in case people didn't know, it looks like thee will be an extra exit on I-269. The original plans didn't call for an interchange with McIngvale Road. Now the road will be the first I-269 exit past the I-55/69/269 interchange. http://www.desototimes.com/news/i--mcingvale-exit-on-target/article_389b66ae-755f-11e6-bcce-c76964f147da.html and here is a map with plans for the interchange. https://www.flickr.com/photos/130271900@N03/27497230004

Well, the bridge is already there and the article is from 2016.  So I would think they are already working on it.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 13, 2017, 03:57:53 PM
Quote from: dcharlie on December 13, 2017, 03:40:59 PM
So, why is it going to take almost a year to pave and sign the last 5 or 6 miles?

It is scheduled for Fall 2018.  But the section that just opened was not scheduled until next Spring, so we may see it open earlier.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 13, 2017, 04:05:40 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 13, 2017, 03:56:31 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 13, 2017, 03:33:51 PM
Just in case people didn't know, it looks like thee will be an extra exit on I-269. The original plans didn't call for an interchange with McIngvale Road. Now the road will be the first I-269 exit past the I-55/69/269 interchange. http://www.desototimes.com/news/i--mcingvale-exit-on-target/article_389b66ae-755f-11e6-bcce-c76964f147da.html and here is a map with plans for the interchange. https://www.flickr.com/photos/130271900@N03/27497230004

Well, the bridge is already there and the article is from 2016.  So I would think they are already working on it.
I will be heading to Southaven on Friday. So I think I will go down to Hernando and check it out. My guess is there already working on it, since they were just trying to buy right away land a year ago.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on December 13, 2017, 04:09:14 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 13, 2017, 03:33:51 PM
Just in case people didn't know, it looks like thee will be an extra exit on I-269. The original plans didn't call for an interchange with McIngvale Road. Now the road will be the first I-269 exit past the I-55/69/269 interchange. http://www.desototimes.com/news/i--mcingvale-exit-on-target/article_389b66ae-755f-11e6-bcce-c76964f147da.html and here is a map with plans for the interchange. https://www.flickr.com/photos/130271900@N03/27497230004

I hope the project will put in an auxiliary lane between I-55/69 and the new exit. There will be a lot of heavy merging there...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 13, 2017, 04:11:22 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on December 13, 2017, 04:09:14 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 13, 2017, 03:33:51 PM
Just in case people didn't know, it looks like thee will be an extra exit on I-269. The original plans didn't call for an interchange with McIngvale Road. Now the road will be the first I-269 exit past the I-55/69/269 interchange. http://www.desototimes.com/news/i--mcingvale-exit-on-target/article_389b66ae-755f-11e6-bcce-c76964f147da.html and here is a map with plans for the interchange. https://www.flickr.com/photos/130271900@N03/27497230004

I hope the project will put in an auxiliary lane between I-55/69 and the new exit. There will be a lot of heavy merging there...
I'm not sure if this exit might be the reason it will take an entire year to complete. It could be they want all work done there, before they open I-269 with I-55/69 interchange.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 14, 2017, 01:16:50 AM
Quote from: dcharlie on December 13, 2017, 03:40:59 PM
So, why is it going to take almost a year to pave and sign the last 5 or 6 miles?

The I-55 to MS 305 section paving & signage work was let as a separate contract in August 2016, so it's inevitably running behind the MS 305 to MS 302 section which was let a few months earlier.

As for McIngvale Road, there was always an overpass included in the plans but interchange ramps weren't included due to the proximity to I-55 and to reduce costs. There's no immediate traffic need for an interchange there; this is being done for economic development.

I'd assume there will be an aux lane in each direction, but MDOT didn't put aux lanes in between MS 178 and Barnes Crossing Rd/Cowley Rd in Tupelo (which is about the same distance) so maybe not. I don't see a lot of traffic entering NB I-55 to EB I-269 initially, but WB I-269 to NB I-55 could be more of an issue.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on December 14, 2017, 09:43:18 AM
Centerline to centerline, it's about a mile-and-a-third between 55 and McIngvale Rd.  That's a long enough distance to where auxiliary lanes probably aren't needed in the short- or mid-term, given that it will take some time for traffic volumes on 269 to build.

Auxiliary lanes work best when there's a lot of merging/diverging traffic (probably not the case here for the forseeable future) or if distance between on/off ramps is a half-mile or less (definitely not the case here).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on December 14, 2017, 11:33:41 AM
The new section of I-269 has been updated on Google Maps.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on December 14, 2017, 12:10:45 PM
Is 385 up to interstate standards?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 14, 2017, 04:02:55 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 14, 2017, 12:10:45 PM
Is 385 up to interstate standards?

I haven't gone out and checked all the measurements or anything, but at least the section from I-40 to US 72 (which was the most recently constructed) appears to have been built to the current standards for a rural Interstate. From I-40 to US 51 that's also mostly true but the oldest section from US 51 to TN 205 probably has some minor design deficiencies relative to the current standards, being of 1970s-era design (around the same time as I-155 I think).

The section from I-240 to US 72, particularly the six+ lane sections west of Hacks Cross, probably has quite a few deficiencies (narrow inner shoulders on the 6-lane sections, lack of auxiliary lanes between Ridgeway & Kirby and Kirby & Riverdale, seriously wonky banking between Riverdale and Winchester) but there are no plans to apply for an Interstate designation there.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on December 15, 2017, 05:18:46 PM
As of today, Google Maps has added the newly opened section of I-269 in Mississippi.

At least in the app on my iPhone...

Also on my iPad.  Have not been able to check it on a PC yet.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on December 15, 2017, 09:41:52 PM
Are signs being changed out (finally) in Tennessee?

https://www.tn.gov/tdot/news/2017/12/13/west-tn-lane-closure-report.html

(On the TN SmartWay maps, the construction notice says completion expected by 30 April.)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on December 15, 2017, 11:02:34 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 15, 2017, 05:18:46 PM
As of today, Google Maps has added the newly opened section of I-269 in Mississippi.

At least in the app on my iPhone...

Also on my iPad.  Have not been able to check it on a PC yet.

Shows up on my PC. Nice to see they got my message ;)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 15, 2017, 11:27:21 PM
Quote from: US71 on December 15, 2017, 11:02:34 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on December 15, 2017, 05:18:46 PM
As of today, Google Maps has added the newly opened section of I-269 in Mississippi.

At least in the app on my iPhone...

Also on my iPad.  Have not been able to check it on a PC yet.

Shows up on my PC. Nice to see they got my message ;)

Yes it is. I emailed them earlier this week about it. Here is the email I got back from google maps.
Maps
Thank you
Your suggestion is being reviewed. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
We'll let you know once the changes are published.

I-269
Your suggestion
Other   I-269 is now open to Miss. Hwy 305. yet it still shows it ending at Hwy 302.

Edited on Dec 13, 2017 · In review
Keep exploring,
The Google Maps team
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 16, 2017, 12:31:25 AM
Here is a picture from a new stretch of I-269. This is between Byhalia and MS 302.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4JwcnY0nneE/WilZfy_vooI/AAAAAAAAAxo/HHsvQv6RZv0pro9dzvV0ztwE_-xWyktYwCLcBGAs/s1600/I-269.5.jpg)

and another picture of I 269 north bound.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ROQUxVdBT5c/WihpJeRjscI/AAAAAAAAAw0/2G8rwIPmdhoEbAbSulQET2zF1U4unUGmQCLcBGAs/s1600/mdot2.jpg)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: vdeane on December 16, 2017, 05:31:30 PM
Is there a reason why they still post MS 304?  I'd truncate it to where it joins I-69.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 17, 2017, 02:37:38 AM
I had the opportunity to drive the section from I-22 to MS 302 this evening. Nothing terribly exciting to report, although the control city southbound/westbound is covered up on the signs at the I-22 interchange; as expected, the northbound/eastbound control city is Collierville. There wasn't much traffic - not surprising, since this section isn't terribly useful for traffic not headed to Collierville or other parts of east Shelby County.

Also, while I-269 does show up on Google Maps, the routing engine on their Android app doesn't yet think it exists - although it works fine in Waze.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on December 17, 2017, 07:59:16 AM
Quote from: vdeaneIs there a reason why they still post MS 304?

Was planned/designed as MS 304, and began construction west of I-55 as such.  "I-269" and "I-69" are newcomers.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ATLRedSoxFan on December 18, 2017, 12:29:03 PM
It will be interesting to see Picts of the I-22/269 interchange.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on December 18, 2017, 12:47:57 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 16, 2017, 12:31:25 AM
and another picture of I 269 north bound.

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ROQUxVdBT5c/WihpJeRjscI/AAAAAAAAAw0/2G8rwIPmdhoEbAbSulQET2zF1U4unUGmQCLcBGAs/s1600/mdot2.jpg)

I love this photo so much.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on December 18, 2017, 01:10:51 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on December 18, 2017, 12:29:03 PM
It will be interesting to see Picts of the I-22/269 interchange.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.scotclans.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F08%2Fpict-wrong.jpg&hash=4bd780d77c19eb9e3cd7f1898c0b42eeea679747)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 18, 2017, 03:16:48 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on December 18, 2017, 12:29:03 PM
It will be interesting to see Picts of the I-22/269 interchange.
You can see it live here....
https://www.mdottraffic.com/
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 18, 2017, 08:34:01 PM
Quote from: NE2 on December 18, 2017, 01:10:51 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on December 18, 2017, 12:29:03 PM
It will be interesting to see Picts of the I-22/269 interchange.
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.scotclans.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2015%2F08%2Fpict-wrong.jpg&hash=4bd780d77c19eb9e3cd7f1898c0b42eeea679747)

On occasion NE2 can be a bit snarky -- but that is fucking funny!  I'll bet he can access pictures of Celts as well!  :awesomeface: :awesomeface: :awesomeface:
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on December 20, 2017, 12:55:58 AM
Some trivia:

I made the mistake of getting sucked into an edit war on the Wikipedia I-269 page...and due to a lack of clear answers accessible on the web / findable in the black hole that is TDOT's website, I send an email to TDOT asking about the current and future official designations of the highway between Collierville and Arlington.

The response back was that TDOT currently considers the highway to be SR 385, and that I-269 doesn't yet exist north of Collierville.  When the signing contract is complete, and work inspected and approved, at that point they'll issue a press release and (in their eyes) the highway will officially become I-269.

The responding engineer went on to mention that the SR 385 designation will be officially removed from TDOT's perspective from that stretch of highway at that point.  SR 385 will live on officially as two disconnected segments...at least until I-269 is extended, which probably won't happen until I-69 is built to Millington.

Figured I'd share, in case anyone was wondering.

(Annoyingly, this means I "lost" in the aforementioned edit war.  C'est la vie.)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Scott5114 on December 20, 2017, 04:05:53 PM
So does that mean to TDOT that a highway designation is made official by what signs it bears? That seems weird.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 20, 2017, 04:38:15 PM
I would assume this means TDOT has a general policy of only publicly using the signed interstate highway designations, which makes sense given the precedents of I-124 and I-69, both of which officially exist in TN according to AASHTO and FHWA but don't really show up in anything from TDOT, even the state highway maps where other "non-public" designations like the unsigned state route concurrencies are visible.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 20, 2017, 05:42:53 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on December 20, 2017, 12:55:58 AM
Some trivia:

I made the mistake of getting sucked into an edit war on the Wikipedia I-269 page...and due to a lack of clear answers accessible on the web / findable in the black hole that is TDOT's website, I send an email to TDOT asking about the current and future official designations of the highway between Collierville and Arlington.

The response back was that TDOT currently considers the highway to be SR 385, and that I-269 doesn't yet exist north of Collierville.  When the signing contract is complete, and work inspected and approved, at that point they'll issue a press release and (in their eyes) the highway will officially become I-269.

The responding engineer went on to mention that the SR 385 designation will be officially removed from TDOT's perspective from that stretch of highway at that point.  SR 385 will live on officially as two disconnected segments...at least until I-269 is extended, which probably won't happen until I-69 is built to Millington.

Figured I'd share, in case anyone was wondering.

(Annoyingly, this means I "lost" in the aforementioned edit war.  C'est la vie.)
Imo, it's one of the dumbest things to have two separate 385's. They probably won't even change the mileage markers between us 70 and us 51. The exception would be to Co sign the road like Mississippi has done with 269, but it sounds like the plan is to eliminate it between Collier ville and Arlington. We won't see I 69 complete for decades in Tennessee, meaning it will stay that way. Another reason TDOT should sign over the entire stretch or give the northern future 269 another designation.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 21, 2017, 01:58:18 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 20, 2017, 05:42:53 PM
Imo, it's one of the dumbest things to have two separate 385's. They probably won't even change the mileage markers between us 70 and us 51. The exception would be to Co sign the road like Mississippi has done with 269, but it sounds like the plan is to eliminate it between Collier ville and Arlington. We won't see I 69 complete for decades in Tennessee, meaning it will stay that way. Another reason TDOT should sign over the entire stretch or give the northern future 269 another designation.

Not changing the mileage markers actually makes sense, since otherwise there'd be two sections of 385 with the same mile markers in the same county, which would be a recipe for disaster in emergency response situations. (As-is the mileage at least used to reset at least one place where 385 reentered Shelby County from Fayette County, although that may have been fixed when they installed the enhanced location signage a few years back.)

That said if it were still to lead to actual driver confusion the sensible thing to do would be what they should have done when they built Bill Morris Pkwy in the first place: start US 72 at I-240, truncating the unnecessary portion inside I-240, and have it follow current 385 to the unsigned TN 86 exit. East of there TDOT could just use the "to I-269/to US 72" trick for the mile or so that wouldn't be part of the rerouted US 72, as is currently used for TN 300.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 21, 2017, 02:12:47 AM


Not changing the mileage markers actually makes sense, since otherwise there'd be two sections of 385 with the same mile markers in the same county, which would be a recipe for disaster in emergency response situations.
[/quote]

What you said right there says enough and proves my point of how ridiculous it is. The confusion of having the same road in two totally different parts of the county is insane. There is no way there is any logic to it. Unless you keep 385/I-269 together until the entire route gets signed over. Yet TDOT has made it clear they will get rid of 385 between the southern leg of 385 and I-40/US 70 once that section is signed over. That's just insane. It's all I will comment on it, because it's a really bad decision by TDOT
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 21, 2017, 02:50:24 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on December 21, 2017, 01:58:18 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 20, 2017, 05:42:53 PM
Imo, it's one of the dumbest things to have two separate 385's. They probably won't even change the mileage markers between us 70 and us 51. The exception would be to Co sign the road like Mississippi has done with 269, but it sounds like the plan is to eliminate it between Collier ville and Arlington. We won't see I 69 complete for decades in Tennessee, meaning it will stay that way. Another reason TDOT should sign over the entire stretch or give the northern future 269 another designation.

Not changing the mileage markers actually makes sense, since otherwise there'd be two sections of 385 with the same mile markers in the same county, which would be a recipe for disaster in emergency response situations. (As-is the mileage at least used to reset at least one place where 385 reentered Shelby County from Fayette County, although that may have been fixed when they installed the enhanced location signage a few years back.)

That said if it were still to lead to actual driver confusion the sensible thing to do would be what they should have done when they built Bill Morris Pkwy in the first place: start US 72 at I-240, truncating the unnecessary portion inside I-240, and have it follow current 385 to the unsigned TN 86 exit. East of there TDOT could just use the "to I-269/to US 72" trick for the mile or so that wouldn't be part of the rerouted US 72, as is currently used for TN 300.
The second part also makes a hell of a lot more sense than keeping two sections of 385 in one county. It would also make sense with the connection between Huntsville and Memphis. Yet i'm sure TDOT doesn't want to spend any more money to resign BIll Morris Pkwy.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: triplemultiplex on December 21, 2017, 10:40:03 AM
I will reiterate that the sensible solution is to sign all of I-269 as such right now.  Then there is no problem with two TN 385's.

Yeah, yeah, "they don't know where I-69 will go on the north side of Memphis.."  Who cares?  That's literally decades from now unless someone magically makes money appear.  And if I-69 uses the north leg of the beltline, it's going to use the entire beltline, too, and the whole of I-269 will have to be re-signed anyway.  So the argument about prematurely signing the north leg as I-269 is moot.
Far simpler to have one continuous number for that entire outer loop and I-269 is a great number to use.

I hate this bullcrap where the loop freeway is only signed as a state highway or an odd 3di until it "goes somewhere".  That's dumb.  Because then you get into situations like Memphis where the loop freeway will change numbers for no good reason.  Or one like Raleigh where everyone got "used" to the number 540 and now they're stuck with it.  Or they're in a situation where every goddamn sign on a virtually new road has to be swapped out like in Fayetteville, NC.

I don't like strict adherence to the letter of the rules at the expense of the spirit of the rules.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mwb1848 on December 21, 2017, 12:21:11 PM
Quote from: Brooks on December 11, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 11, 2017, 11:15:31 AM
I'm confused... does I-269 run from MS 305 to TN 385 or I-40?
I-269 is designated all the way to I-40; however, until TDOT gets off their asses and changes the signs, 269 ends at 385. In a perfect world, the designation and signage would extend all the way to US 51 in Millington.

Following a suggestion above, I checked in at MDOT's traffic advisory web site to get a live view of I-269 via traffic cams.

While there, I noticed that MDOT (perhaps inadvertently) weighs in on the end point of I-269. When I visited, the DMS on I-269 between MS 305 and Red Banks Road was displaying:

I-269
NOW OPEN
TO I-40 IN TN
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 22, 2017, 09:37:03 PM
Quote from: mwb1848 on December 21, 2017, 12:21:11 PM
Quote from: Brooks on December 11, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 11, 2017, 11:15:31 AM
I'm confused... does I-269 run from MS 305 to TN 385 or I-40?
I-269 is designated all the way to I-40; however, until TDOT gets off their asses and changes the signs, 269 ends at 385. In a perfect world, the designation and signage would extend all the way to US 51 in Millington.

Following a suggestion above, I checked in at MDOT's traffic advisory web site to get a live view of I-269 via traffic cams.

While there, I noticed that MDOT (perhaps inadvertently) weighs in on the end point of I-269. When I visited, the DMS on I-269 between MS 305 and Red Banks Road was displaying:

I-269
NOW OPEN
TO I-40 IN TN

Makes sense -- MS has more to gain (via both present/future I-269 as well as I-22) than TN, so touting the yet-to-be-signed N-S TN segment of TN 385 as a functional I-269 gives the driver on either of the TN freeways a known-quantity destination in I-40. I'm surprised that there aren't I-40 trailblazers on WB I-22 at or near the 269 junction -- just as I'm pretty certain TDOT won't place I-22 trailblazers at the I-269/TN 385 interchange -- at least in the near term.  Unless more highway-oriented businesses deploy themselves along that N-S stretch, TN has little to gain by directing I-40 traffic to & from I-22. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 23, 2017, 02:11:09 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 22, 2017, 09:37:03 PM
Quote from: mwb1848 on December 21, 2017, 12:21:11 PM
Quote from: Brooks on December 11, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 11, 2017, 11:15:31 AM
I'm confused... does I-269 run from MS 305 to TN 385 or I-40?
I-269 is designated all the way to I-40; however, until TDOT gets off their asses and changes the signs, 269 ends at 385. In a perfect world, the designation and signage would extend all the way to US 51 in Millington.

Following a suggestion above, I checked in at MDOT's traffic advisory web site to get a live view of I-269 via traffic cams.

While there, I noticed that MDOT (perhaps inadvertently) weighs in on the end point of I-269. When I visited, the DMS on I-269 between MS 305 and Red Banks Road was displaying:

I-269
NOW OPEN
TO I-40 IN TN

Makes sense -- MS has more to gain (via both present/future I-269 as well as I-22) than TN, so touting the yet-to-be-signed N-S TN segment of TN 385 as a functional I-269 gives the driver on either of the TN freeways a known-quantity destination in I-40. I'm surprised that there aren't I-40 trailblazers on WB I-22 at or near the 269 junction -- just as I'm pretty certain TDOT won't place I-22 trailblazers at the I-269/TN 385 interchange -- at least in the near term.  Unless more highway-oriented businesses deploy themselves along that N-S stretch, TN has little to gain by directing I-40 traffic to & from I-22.
You hit the nail on the head. The only gain in Tennessee is a lot of transportation companies could move to the Collierville area. With I-269/385 junction having  a lot of land Collierville is zoning for it around that junction. Everything else is Mississippi's to gain. Obviously a ton of traffic will travel I-269 between I-55 and I-22. I-22 is the gateway from the midwest and middle America into the southeast. When that section of I-269 is complete, there will be lots of traffic that wont have to go through non highway city traffic in Memphis anymore. I don't expect much retaill development on I-269 between I-22 and I-40. I-269 between I-55 and I-22 would be another story. Honestly TDOT could probably care less about signing the Tennessee section over, if they didn't have to do so.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on December 23, 2017, 08:24:15 PM
I clinched I-269 today, traveling from I-40 around to MS 305.

I've spent way too much time in New England.  Nice big, broad right of way with not much in the way of development...just looked odd.  But nice.

On 385, I saw no signs of any resigning work, despite the lane closure notice issued last week by TDOT.  Even the god-awful APL on southbound 385 at the 269/385 interchange is unchanged ("Local Traffic".)

I did, however, see some very well-done greenout work by MDOT's contractor, blanking out control cities on pull-through signs and future destinations on mileage signs, presumably which will be revealed with the last section opens.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on December 24, 2017, 12:39:03 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 23, 2017, 02:11:09 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 22, 2017, 09:37:03 PM
Quote from: mwb1848 on December 21, 2017, 12:21:11 PM
Quote from: Brooks on December 11, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 11, 2017, 11:15:31 AM
I'm confused... does I-269 run from MS 305 to TN 385 or I-40?
I-269 is designated all the way to I-40; however, until TDOT gets off their asses and changes the signs, 269 ends at 385. In a perfect world, the designation and signage would extend all the way to US 51 in Millington.



Following a suggestion above, I checked in at MDOT's traffic advisory web site to get a live view of I-269 via traffic cams.

While there, I noticed that MDOT (perhaps inadvertently) weighs in on the end point of I-269. When I visited, the DMS on I-269 between MS 305 and Red Banks Road was displaying:

I-269
NOW OPEN
TO I-40 IN TN

Makes sense -- MS has more to gain (via both present/future I-269 as well as I-22) than TN, so touting the yet-to-be-signed N-S TN segment of TN 385 as a functional I-269 gives the driver on either of the TN freeways a known-quantity destination in I-40. I'm surprised that there aren't I-40 trailblazers on WB I-22 at or near the 269 junction -- just as I'm pretty certain TDOT won't place I-22 trailblazers at the I-269/TN 385 interchange -- at least in the near term.  Unless more highway-oriented businesses deploy themselves along that N-S stretch, TN has little to gain by directing I-40 traffic to & from I-22.
You hit the nail on the head. The only gain in Tennessee is a lot of transportation companies could move to the Collierville area. With I-269/385 junction having  a lot of land Collierville is zoning for it around that junction. Everything else is Mississippi's to gain. Obviously a ton of traffic will travel I-269 between I-55 and I-22. I-22 is the gateway from the midwest and middle America into the southeast. When that section of I-269 is complete, there will be lots of traffic that wont have to go through non highway city traffic in Memphis anymore. I don't expect much retaill development on I-269 between I-22 and I-40. I-269 between I-55 and I-22 would be another story. Honestly TDOT could probably care less about signing the Tennessee section over, if they didn't have to do so.

gateway from the midwest to the southeast is a bit of a stretch
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 24, 2017, 01:07:20 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 24, 2017, 12:39:03 AM
gateway from the midwest to the southeast is a bit of a stretch

I-22 is certainly not the only -- or even main -- gateway from the Midwest to the Deep South -- but it does function as a conduit from the southern part of the Midwest, courtesy of I-40 west of Memphis.  I-24 is more suited to handle traffic from the upper Midwest to the South, since it taps traffic from I-64 and I-70 and points north the way that I-22 can't do efficiently (unless a side trip to Memphis is involved!).  But between them, the "twenties" seem to have that role covered quite well!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 24, 2017, 02:49:35 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 24, 2017, 12:39:03 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 23, 2017, 02:11:09 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 22, 2017, 09:37:03 PM
Quote from: mwb1848 on December 21, 2017, 12:21:11 PM
Quote from: Brooks on December 11, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 11, 2017, 11:15:31 AM
I'm confused... does I-269 run from MS 305 to TN 385 or I-40?
I-269 is designated all the way to I-40; however, until TDOT gets off their asses and changes the signs, 269 ends at 385. In a perfect world, the designation and signage would extend all the way to US 51 in Millington.



Following a suggestion above, I checked in at MDOT's traffic advisory web site to get a live view of I-269 via traffic cams.

While there, I noticed that MDOT (perhaps inadvertently) weighs in on the end point of I-269. When I visited, the DMS on I-269 between MS 305 and Red Banks Road was displaying:

I-269
NOW OPEN
TO I-40 IN TN

Makes sense -- MS has more to gain (via both present/future I-269 as well as I-22) than TN, so touting the yet-to-be-signed N-S TN segment of TN 385 as a functional I-269 gives the driver on either of the TN freeways a known-quantity destination in I-40. I'm surprised that there aren't I-40 trailblazers on WB I-22 at or near the 269 junction -- just as I'm pretty certain TDOT won't place I-22 trailblazers at the I-269/TN 385 interchange -- at least in the near term.  Unless more highway-oriented businesses deploy themselves along that N-S stretch, TN has little to gain by directing I-40 traffic to & from I-22.
You hit the nail on the head. The only gain in Tennessee is a lot of transportation companies could move to the Collierville area. With I-269/385 junction having  a lot of land Collierville is zoning for it around that junction. Everything else is Mississippi's to gain. Obviously a ton of traffic will travel I-269 between I-55 and I-22. I-22 is the gateway from the midwest and middle America into the southeast. When that section of I-269 is complete, there will be lots of traffic that wont have to go through non highway city traffic in Memphis anymore. I don't expect much retaill development on I-269 between I-22 and I-40. I-269 between I-55 and I-22 would be another story. Honestly TDOT could probably care less about signing the Tennessee section over, if they didn't have to do so.

gateway from the midwest to the southeast is a bit of a stretch
Is it? Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Arkansas, Oklahoma wanting to get into Birmingham, Atlanta, Florida beaches, exc. Do the google routing.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on December 27, 2017, 08:03:32 AM
^ Two of the five states you mention are not "Midwest" by most definitions.  Arkansas in particular is far more Southern than Midwestern.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on December 27, 2017, 02:24:16 PM
Quote from: froggie on December 27, 2017, 08:03:32 AM
^ Two of the five states you mention are not "Midwest" by most definitions.  Arkansas in particular is far more Southern than Midwestern.
For the love of God, it's in the middle of the freaking country. Get a map. You have I-40 that runs all the way from the Pacific and other states in the middle of the country. Call it what you want, but the main pipeline into the southeastern US will be I-22.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 27, 2017, 03:41:05 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 27, 2017, 02:24:16 PM
Quote from: froggie on December 27, 2017, 08:03:32 AM
^ Two of the five states you mention are not "Midwest" by most definitions.  Arkansas in particular is far more Southern than Midwestern.
For the love of God, it's in the middle of the freaking country. Get a map. You have I-40 that runs all the way from the Pacific and other states in the middle of the country. Call it what you want, but the main pipeline into the southeastern US will be I-22.

Best bet here is to consider anything south of I-70 to be territory that would be likely to cross the Mississippi River near Memphis and then use I-22 toward Birmingham, Atlanta, and Florida points; north of there -- if staying on Interstates -- would likely cross the river in metro St. Louis and then find their way to I-24.  The paucity of river crossings between Memphis and St. Louis (save I-57, which doesn't benefit travelers to and from the Southeast) tends to limit the river crossing location to the two cities unless a more adventurous traveler elects to use conventional roads (hello, Cairo!).  But when considering Interstate corridors from the entire N-W Midwest "swath", 22 and 24 seem to have most of the bases covered.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on December 27, 2017, 06:19:01 PM
A couple of points:

1. TDOT has applied for the I-269 designation and plans to sign it; it certainly didn't have to do either thing, although it was something of a compromise with Mississippi so both states got what they wanted from I-69 SIU 10.

2. I-269 between Collierville and Arlington is unlikely to see much development for environmental reasons (the area is important for recharging the Memphis aquifer) and poor east-west connectivity that is unlikely to ever be addressed. However, there's already a lot of industrial and commercial development going into Marshall County near I-269, due in part to the proximity of the huge Norfolk Southern intermodal facility east of Piperton, as well as access to I-22 and US 72 to Birmingham and Huntsville. Byhalia is also well-positioned to develop a lot more residential and retail along the lines of Olive Branch.

3. I think we radically overestimate how much traffic on the Interstate system is through traffic. Certainly long-haul trucking is important, and family vacations are a thing, but most of what travel you see is intraregional - I-22 is much more frequented by people going from Tupelo or New Albany or Holly Springs to go to Memphis or vice versa that it is for journeys between Little Rock and Atlanta - at that distance, business travelers are flying and most shipments would go by rail or air. The impact of I-269 on traffic levels on Lamar, even when complete, will likely be imperceptible. (Unfortunately, a review of TDOT's plans for widening US 78 to 6 lanes from the state line past the Holmes Road interchange suggest that TDOT still plans to leave in place the existing at-grade signalized intersections both north and south of Holmes Road.)

On the last point, look at the maps here (https://www.bts.gov/bts-publications/freight-facts-and-figures/freight-facts-figures-2017-chapter-3-freight), specifically this figure (https://www.bts.gov/sites/bts.dot.gov/files/thumbnails/image/Figure%203-6%20Average%20Daily%20Long-Haul%20Truck%20Traffic%20on%20the%20NHS%202045.jpg) from BTS. US 49 south of Jackson was actually carrying substantially more freight than I-22 in 2012; anecdotally, I-22 truck traffic doesn't seem that heavy even today (I regularly drive I-16 southeast of Macon and despite its reputation as a low-traffic interstate even it has more truck traffic on it than I usually see on I-22), and I'm not sure even the I-55 linkup will add that much more.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 28, 2017, 04:57:28 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on December 27, 2017, 06:19:01 PM
I think we radically overestimate how much traffic on the Interstate system is through traffic. Certainly long-haul trucking is important, and family vacations are a thing, but most of what travel you see is intraregional - I-22 is much more frequented by people going from Tupelo or New Albany or Holly Springs to go to Memphis or vice versa that it is for journeys between Little Rock and Atlanta - at that distance, business travelers are flying and most shipments would go by rail or air. The impact of I-269 on traffic levels on Lamar, even when complete, will likely be imperceptible.
On the last point, look at the maps here (https://www.bts.gov/bts-publications/freight-facts-and-figures/freight-facts-figures-2017-chapter-3-freight), specifically this figure (https://www.bts.gov/sites/bts.dot.gov/files/thumbnails/image/Figure%203-6%20Average%20Daily%20Long-Haul%20Truck%20Traffic%20on%20the%20NHS%202045.jpg) from BTS. US 49 south of Jackson was actually carrying substantially more freight than I-22 in 2012; anecdotally, I-22 truck traffic doesn't seem that heavy even today (I regularly drive I-16 southeast of Macon and despite its reputation as a low-traffic interstate even it has more truck traffic on it than I usually see on I-22), and I'm not sure even the I-55 linkup will add that much more.

Despite the perception that trunk Interstates are there primarily to facilitate interregional travel, data repeatedly shows that there are significantly higher-traffic "nodes" extending out from the more densely populated areas that provide much of the aggregate traffic load for any given route.  In many cases a look at usage of many Interstates demonstrates that one is not simply looking at one road or even one corridor -- but an effective series of "SIU's" linked together by the lesser-utilized segments.  In the case of I-22, one such node is the Olive Branch/Byhalia area, where much of the traffic is simply folks getting on one exit and getting off a few exits later -- it's a convenient roadway for local usage; the fact that it's a full-fledged trunk Interstate is simply "icing on the cake", so to speak.  Once into the woods, things thin out a bit until around New Albany-Tupelo, which provides an additional traffic node (enhanced in the last few years by the Toyota plant near MS 9 west of Tupelo).  That too thins out toward the Alabama state line; with a bit of sparsity before the penultimate node (Winfield-Jasper) occurs, with the resultant dominance of local traffic; that node blends with the final Birmingham segment.  The fact that there is a modicum of through traffic doesn't affect the fact that right now I-22 functions as much as a chain of local "SIU's" as a single interregional entity. 

But that route is still very much in its teething stages; except for the Toyota plant, which ironically ships most of its product out by rail (although trucks carrying "just-in-time" parts to the facility do account for a good piece of I-22 commercial traffic), commercial development along the 205-mile overall corridor just hasn't happened to date.  What intrinsic Birmingham-Memphis truck traffic there is uses it, of course -- just as they would have used US 78 before the freeway was constructed; it's the logical routing.  But now that it connects to the rest of the Interstate network (albeit convolutedly at its west end for the time being), one might expect gradual increases in overall usage as interregional use expands.  However, local traffic will also increase, particularly along "linear" nodes strung out with I-22 as the focal point -- such as the Winfield/Jasper segment mentioned earlier.  Expect localized traffic to dominate the overall picture on this relatively new corridor until interregional traffic patterns begin shifting to take advantage of its presence -- which should take at least another 10 years or so; as connections (I-269 west to I-55/69) are made and the corridor segments beyond the I-22 connection itself (including the long-delayed Crump Blvd. improvement on I-55 itself), I-22 will present itself as a logical option in the SE>NW regional picture.  Do note that the commercial-traffic map cited above is based upon the facility prior to its MS improvements and also prior to its formal designation (likely figures from 2010 or earlier).   
Title: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on January 27, 2018, 12:10:26 AM
I-269 mile marker signs are up near the SR-193 exit.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on January 27, 2018, 05:29:34 PM
Quote from: Brooks on January 27, 2018, 12:10:26 AM
I-269 mile marker signs are up near the SR-193 exit.

Are they turned to the side like Missouri did with I-49, or are they mounted normally?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on February 11, 2018, 09:12:01 PM
took a few pics on my cell phone today when driving down Getwell. This is Getwell at future I-269. All the roads are paved and traffic lights are up. Even though not operational. https://www.flickr.com/gp/140140930@N06/5XcrB5
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on February 12, 2018, 01:30:47 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on January 27, 2018, 05:29:34 PM
Quote from: Brooks on January 27, 2018, 12:10:26 AM
I-269 mile marker signs are up near the SR-193 exit.

Are they turned to the side like Missouri did with I-49, or are they mounted normally?
Not sure what you're referring to, but last time I was out there, they had I-269 trailblazers from I-40 all the way to 385.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on March 04, 2018, 12:57:16 AM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180304/ab15b39af20202415d01afcabddd394e.jpg)
Took this picture last night at the I-269/SR 385 interchange. It's good to see this up; however, the other of the really shitty old ones is still in place for now.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: hbelkins on March 04, 2018, 02:46:19 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 24, 2017, 02:49:35 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 24, 2017, 12:39:03 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 23, 2017, 02:11:09 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 22, 2017, 09:37:03 PM
Quote from: mwb1848 on December 21, 2017, 12:21:11 PM
Quote from: Brooks on December 11, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 11, 2017, 11:15:31 AM
I'm confused... does I-269 run from MS 305 to TN 385 or I-40?
I-269 is designated all the way to I-40; however, until TDOT gets off their asses and changes the signs, 269 ends at 385. In a perfect world, the designation and signage would extend all the way to US 51 in Millington.



Following a suggestion above, I checked in at MDOT's traffic advisory web site to get a live view of I-269 via traffic cams.

While there, I noticed that MDOT (perhaps inadvertently) weighs in on the end point of I-269. When I visited, the DMS on I-269 between MS 305 and Red Banks Road was displaying:

I-269
NOW OPEN
TO I-40 IN TN

Makes sense -- MS has more to gain (via both present/future I-269 as well as I-22) than TN, so touting the yet-to-be-signed N-S TN segment of TN 385 as a functional I-269 gives the driver on either of the TN freeways a known-quantity destination in I-40. I'm surprised that there aren't I-40 trailblazers on WB I-22 at or near the 269 junction -- just as I'm pretty certain TDOT won't place I-22 trailblazers at the I-269/TN 385 interchange -- at least in the near term.  Unless more highway-oriented businesses deploy themselves along that N-S stretch, TN has little to gain by directing I-40 traffic to & from I-22.
You hit the nail on the head. The only gain in Tennessee is a lot of transportation companies could move to the Collierville area. With I-269/385 junction having  a lot of land Collierville is zoning for it around that junction. Everything else is Mississippi's to gain. Obviously a ton of traffic will travel I-269 between I-55 and I-22. I-22 is the gateway from the midwest and middle America into the southeast. When that section of I-269 is complete, there will be lots of traffic that wont have to go through non highway city traffic in Memphis anymore. I don't expect much retaill development on I-269 between I-22 and I-40. I-269 between I-55 and I-22 would be another story. Honestly TDOT could probably care less about signing the Tennessee section over, if they didn't have to do so.

gateway from the midwest to the southeast is a bit of a stretch
Is it? Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Arkansas, Oklahoma wanting to get into Birmingham, Atlanta, Florida beaches, exc. Do the google routing.

In the summertime, I-24 near Paducah is chock-full of cars with Kansas and Missouri license plates. I remember one trip where plates from those two states outnumbered Kentucky and Illinois.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on March 05, 2018, 03:45:36 AM
Quote from: hbelkins on March 04, 2018, 02:46:19 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 24, 2017, 02:49:35 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 24, 2017, 12:39:03 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on December 23, 2017, 02:11:09 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 22, 2017, 09:37:03 PM
Quote from: mwb1848 on December 21, 2017, 12:21:11 PM
Quote from: Brooks on December 11, 2017, 11:21:35 AM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on December 11, 2017, 11:15:31 AM
I'm confused... does I-269 run from MS 305 to TN 385 or I-40?
I-269 is designated all the way to I-40; however, until TDOT gets off their asses and changes the signs, 269 ends at 385. In a perfect world, the designation and signage would extend all the way to US 51 in Millington.



Following a suggestion above, I checked in at MDOT's traffic advisory web site to get a live view of I-269 via traffic cams.

While there, I noticed that MDOT (perhaps inadvertently) weighs in on the end point of I-269. When I visited, the DMS on I-269 between MS 305 and Red Banks Road was displaying:

I-269
NOW OPEN
TO I-40 IN TN

Makes sense -- MS has more to gain (via both present/future I-269 as well as I-22) than TN, so touting the yet-to-be-signed N-S TN segment of TN 385 as a functional I-269 gives the driver on either of the TN freeways a known-quantity destination in I-40. I'm surprised that there aren't I-40 trailblazers on WB I-22 at or near the 269 junction -- just as I'm pretty certain TDOT won't place I-22 trailblazers at the I-269/TN 385 interchange -- at least in the near term.  Unless more highway-oriented businesses deploy themselves along that N-S stretch, TN has little to gain by directing I-40 traffic to & from I-22.
You hit the nail on the head. The only gain in Tennessee is a lot of transportation companies could move to the Collierville area. With I-269/385 junction having  a lot of land Collierville is zoning for it around that junction. Everything else is Mississippi's to gain. Obviously a ton of traffic will travel I-269 between I-55 and I-22. I-22 is the gateway from the midwest and middle America into the southeast. When that section of I-269 is complete, there will be lots of traffic that wont have to go through non highway city traffic in Memphis anymore. I don't expect much retaill development on I-269 between I-22 and I-40. I-269 between I-55 and I-22 would be another story. Honestly TDOT could probably care less about signing the Tennessee section over, if they didn't have to do so.

gateway from the midwest to the southeast is a bit of a stretch
Is it? Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, Arkansas, Oklahoma wanting to get into Birmingham, Atlanta, Florida beaches, exc. Do the google routing.

In the summertime, I-24 near Paducah is chock-full of cars with Kansas and Missouri license plates. I remember one trip where plates from those two states outnumbered Kentucky and Illinois.

Funneling traffic from the central Plains states to Nashville and on to the Deep South (and vice-versa) seems to be the main function of I-24 in any case.   I-22 merely augments that by giving areas in the southern Plains region a more direct route to and from the same destinations (Atlanta, Florida). 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on March 05, 2018, 07:39:18 AM
Quote from: Brooks on March 04, 2018, 12:57:16 AM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180304/ab15b39af20202415d01afcabddd394e.jpg)
Took this picture last night at the I-269/SR 385 interchange. It's good to see this up; however, the other of the really shitty old ones is still in place for now.

That sign looks so much better now than it did before!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on March 05, 2018, 11:10:48 PM
Quote from: sparkerFunneling traffic from the central Plains states to Nashville and on to the Deep South (and vice-versa) seems to be the main function of I-24 in any case.   I-22 merely augments that by giving areas in the southern Plains region a more direct route to and from the same destinations (Atlanta, Florida).

I think I-22 has the potential to be a much more important Interstate highway in the Deep South, but that's only if it gets built-out properly -particularly in the Memphis metro area. I'd like to see I-22 extended West along I-269 and across the Mississippi River to connect with I-40 in Arkansas. That would draw quite a bit of long distance I-40 traffic headed to/from places like Atlanta. If I-22 was extended farther Southeast (Opelika; Columbus, GA; Albany, GA) to end at I-75 near Valdosta, GA then it would serve even more Deep South traffic needs as well as long distance traffic coming in and out of Florida. And if we want to bring in the military factor (like proponents of I-14 love to do) Fort Benning is a major Army post next to Columbus, GA and the US Marine Corps Logistics Base (aka Repair Division) is in Albany.

Converting Lamar Avenue (US-78) into a freeway from I-269 to I-240 in Memphis would also be a good thing. But the I-55 Mississippi River crossing in Memphis and its outdated hard turn at Crump Blvd is a choke point. A new I-22 bridge crossing near Tunica would pull some traffic off that portion of I-55.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on March 06, 2018, 04:29:45 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on March 05, 2018, 11:10:48 PM
Quote from: sparkerFunneling traffic from the central Plains states to Nashville and on to the Deep South (and vice-versa) seems to be the main function of I-24 in any case.   I-22 merely augments that by giving areas in the southern Plains region a more direct route to and from the same destinations (Atlanta, Florida).

I think I-22 has the potential to be a much more important Interstate highway in the Deep South, but that's only if it gets built-out properly -particularly in the Memphis metro area. I'd like to see I-22 extended West along I-269 and across the Mississippi River to connect with I-40 in Arkansas. That would draw quite a bit of long distance I-40 traffic headed to/from places like Atlanta. If I-22 was extended farther Southeast (Opelika; Columbus, GA; Albany, GA) to end at I-75 near Valdosta, GA then it would serve even more Deep South traffic needs as well as long distance traffic coming in and out of Florida. And if we want to bring in the military factor (like proponents of I-14 love to do) Fort Benning is a major Army post next to Columbus, GA and the US Marine Corps Logistics Base (aka Repair Division) is in Albany.

Converting Lamar Avenue (US-78) into a freeway from I-269 to I-240 in Memphis would also be a good thing. But the I-55 Mississippi River crossing in Memphis and its outdated hard turn at Crump Blvd is a choke point. A new I-22 bridge crossing near Tunica would pull some traffic off that portion of I-55.

Something tells me that (a) if the Crump situation isn't resolved via the current but seemingly perpetually postponed plans and (b) a "Southern Crossing" near Tunica is deployed, with connections to I-40 somewhere near its multiplex with I-55, that facility could well become a rerouted I-55, with I-69 the sole designation north into downtown Memphis (including an upgraded 55/69/269 interchange).  Don't think too many folks -- locals or travelers, both commercial and other, would really mind the present old I-55 Mississippi River bridge being deleted from the Interstate system (if there was a viable alternative, I certainly wouldn't!).   If not actually deleted, it could be a I-240 extension (again, with I-69 taking over the N-S portion).     
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on March 06, 2018, 07:43:30 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on March 05, 2018, 11:10:48 PM
Quote from: sparkerFunneling traffic from the central Plains states to Nashville and on to the Deep South (and vice-versa) seems to be the main function of I-24 in any case.   I-22 merely augments that by giving areas in the southern Plains region a more direct route to and from the same destinations (Atlanta, Florida).

I think I-22 has the potential to be a much more important Interstate highway in the Deep South, but that's only if it gets built-out properly -particularly in the Memphis metro area. I'd like to see I-22 extended West along I-269 and across the Mississippi River to connect with I-40 in Arkansas. That would draw quite a bit of long distance I-40 traffic headed to/from places like Atlanta. If I-22 was extended farther Southeast (Opelika; Columbus, GA; Albany, GA) to end at I-75 near Valdosta, GA then it would serve even more Deep South traffic needs as well as long distance traffic coming in and out of Florida. And if we want to bring in the military factor (like proponents of I-14 love to do) Fort Benning is a major Army post next to Columbus, GA and the US Marine Corps Logistics Base (aka Repair Division) is in Albany.

Converting Lamar Avenue (US-78) into a freeway from I-269 to I-240 in Memphis would also be a good thing. But the I-55 Mississippi River crossing in Memphis and its outdated hard turn at Crump Blvd is a choke point. A new I-22 bridge crossing near Tunica would pull some traffic off that portion of I-55.

Even if I-22 isn't extended southeast, US 280 would still funnel some Florida-bound traffic to Columbus GA and on to I-75 via US 280, GA 520, and US 82. Still, an interstate would certainly make that route more viable for long-distance traffic.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Hot Rod Hootenanny on March 06, 2018, 08:48:59 PM
Quote from: Brooks on March 04, 2018, 12:57:16 AM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180304/ab15b39af20202415d01afcabddd394e.jpg)
Took this picture last night at the I-269/SR 385 interchange. It's good to see this up; however, the other of the really shitty old ones is still in place for now.

This sign is, at most, 3 weeks old.

Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Finrod on March 06, 2018, 10:51:01 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on March 05, 2018, 11:10:48 PM
I think I-22 has the potential to be a much more important Interstate highway in the Deep South, but that's only if it gets built-out properly -particularly in the Memphis metro area. I'd like to see I-22 extended West along I-269 and across the Mississippi River to connect with I-40 in Arkansas. That would draw quite a bit of long distance I-40 traffic headed to/from places like Atlanta. If I-22 was extended farther Southeast (Opelika; Columbus, GA; Albany, GA) to end at I-75 near Valdosta, GA then it would serve even more Deep South traffic needs as well as long distance traffic coming in and out of Florida. And if we want to bring in the military factor (like proponents of I-14 love to do) Fort Benning is a major Army post next to Columbus, GA and the US Marine Corps Logistics Base (aka Repair Division) is in Albany.

Agreed, and you're not the only one with that idea.  This fellow's idea extends I-22 east all the way to Brunswick, Georgia at I-95:

http://interstate-dots.blogspot.com/2006/03/interstate-22-extension-phase-i.html

Extending it to the coast also makes it useful as a hurricane evacuation route.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on March 06, 2018, 11:32:23 PM
I would prefer the route going toward Valdosta from Albany, hooking into I-75 not far from the Florida border. It would give traffic coming from the Jacksonville area just as direct an Interstate quality route as upgrading GA-520/US-82 to Waycross and going down to Jacksonville via US-1. And it would shave off miles for traffic heading to/from Florida's Turnpike (Orlando, Miami) and I-75 (Tampa Bay area, Naples, etc).

I think GA-520/US-82 does a good enough job as is serving Brunswick, GA traffic, even as a hurricane evacuation route. Not many people live in that area and the visitor capacity on Saint Simons Island, Sea Island and Jekyll Island is somewhat limited (maybe even on purpose since some spots are a bit more exclusive to those with deeper pockets).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on March 07, 2018, 12:03:13 AM
I made a suggestion about that being a future long term plan in the future on the I-22 thread in the "Southeast" section. Another poster said it was fictional as if he was implying that I was on the "Stuff" lol
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Anthony_JK on March 07, 2018, 09:16:17 AM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on March 06, 2018, 08:48:59 PM
Quote from: Brooks on March 04, 2018, 12:57:16 AM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180304/ab15b39af20202415d01afcabddd394e.jpg)
Took this picture last night at the I-269/SR 385 interchange. It's good to see this up; however, the other of the really shitty old ones is still in place for now.

This sign is, at most, 3 weeks old.



And it already sucks. "Jackson MISS"?!?!??? Like, anyone there's going to confuse the capital city of Mississippi with Jackson, Tennessee??  What's wrong with using "Jackson, MS" or just plain "Jackson" (or, if you want dual destinations, "Jackson/New Orleans")??
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on March 07, 2018, 06:30:26 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on March 07, 2018, 09:16:17 AM
And it already sucks. "Jackson MISS"?!?!??? Like, anyone there's going to confuse the capital city of Mississippi with Jackson, Tennessee??  What's wrong with using "Jackson, MS" or just plain "Jackson" (or, if you want dual destinations, "Jackson/New Orleans")??

It's TDOT policy to post it as "Jackson Miss" (without the grammatically-necessary period, for some reason). You'd think people wouldn't get confused, but since Jackson TN isn't used as a control city for I-40, if you saw a sign that just said "Jackson" you could easily end up going the wrong way - even with the "Miss" it is certainly not an unheard-of situation for people unfamiliar with the region to end up in the "wrong" Jackson.
Title: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on March 07, 2018, 08:13:56 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on March 07, 2018, 06:30:26 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on March 07, 2018, 09:16:17 AM
And it already sucks. "Jackson MISS"?!?!??? Like, anyone there's going to confuse the capital city of Mississippi with Jackson, Tennessee??  What's wrong with using "Jackson, MS" or just plain "Jackson" (or, if you want dual destinations, "Jackson/New Orleans")??

It's TDOT policy to post it as "Jackson Miss" (without the grammatically-necessary period, for some reason). You'd think people wouldn't get confused, but since Jackson TN isn't used as a control city for I-40, if you saw a sign that just said "Jackson" you could easily end up going the wrong way - even with the "Miss" it is certainly not an unheard-of situation for people unfamiliar with the region to end up in the "wrong" Jackson.
It should at least say Jackson, MS. The other way is misleading.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rlb2024 on March 08, 2018, 11:59:31 AM
Quote from: lordsutch on March 07, 2018, 06:30:26 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on March 07, 2018, 09:16:17 AM
And it already sucks. "Jackson MISS"?!?!??? Like, anyone there's going to confuse the capital city of Mississippi with Jackson, Tennessee??  What's wrong with using "Jackson, MS" or just plain "Jackson" (or, if you want dual destinations, "Jackson/New Orleans")??

It's TDOT policy to post it as "Jackson Miss" (without the grammatically-necessary period, for some reason). You'd think people wouldn't get confused, but since Jackson TN isn't used as a control city for I-40, if you saw a sign that just said "Jackson" you could easily end up going the wrong way - even with the "Miss" it is certainly not an unheard-of situation for people unfamiliar with the region to end up in the "wrong" Jackson.
I don't remember TDOT ever using periods.  As long as I can remember I-55 has used "St Louis" as the control city.  AHTD/ARDOT does the same on I-55 in West Memphis.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: wriddle082 on March 08, 2018, 01:54:37 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on March 07, 2018, 06:30:26 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on March 07, 2018, 09:16:17 AM
And it already sucks. "Jackson MISS"?!?!??? Like, anyone there's going to confuse the capital city of Mississippi with Jackson, Tennessee??  What's wrong with using "Jackson, MS" or just plain "Jackson" (or, if you want dual destinations, "Jackson/New Orleans")??

It's TDOT policy to post it as "Jackson Miss" (without the grammatically-necessary period, for some reason). You'd think people wouldn't get confused, but since Jackson TN isn't used as a control city for I-40, if you saw a sign that just said "Jackson" you could easily end up going the wrong way - even with the "Miss" it is certainly not an unheard-of situation for people unfamiliar with the region to end up in the "wrong" Jackson.

And then once you enter MS on I-55 south, the control city becomes Grenada, which I believe is halfway to Jackson.  So I'm curious if I-269 south will have Grenada or Tunica as the control city.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on March 08, 2018, 01:58:25 PM
Quote from: wriddle082 on March 08, 2018, 01:54:37 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on March 07, 2018, 06:30:26 PM
Quote from: Anthony_JK on March 07, 2018, 09:16:17 AM
And it already sucks. "Jackson MISS"?!?!??? Like, anyone there's going to confuse the capital city of Mississippi with Jackson, Tennessee??  What's wrong with using "Jackson, MS" or just plain "Jackson" (or, if you want dual destinations, "Jackson/New Orleans")??

It's TDOT policy to post it as "Jackson Miss" (without the grammatically-necessary period, for some reason). You'd think people wouldn't get confused, but since Jackson TN isn't used as a control city for I-40, if you saw a sign that just said "Jackson" you could easily end up going the wrong way - even with the "Miss" it is certainly not an unheard-of situation for people unfamiliar with the region to end up in the "wrong" Jackson.

And then once you enter MS on I-55 south, the control city becomes Grenada, which I believe is halfway to Jackson.  So I'm curious if I-269 south will have Grenada or Tunica as the control city.


I believe Grenada is only used for northbound I-55. I believe Jackson is used for southbound traffic.

EDIT: It looks like it used to say something else on I-55 southbound at the I-69 interchange but then it was covered up with Jackson: https://www.google.com/maps/@34.870475,-89.9913836,3a,45.7y,173.89h,108.7t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1s8Vc0O2lN59LlOOLX291cSQ!2e0!7i13312!8i6656

EDIT 2: The intersecting routes at some of the interchanges south of I-69 do say Grenada.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: UptownRoadGeek on March 09, 2018, 02:15:30 PM
I never understood why Mississippi chose to use Grenada/McComb as control cities on I-55 instead of Memphis/New Orleans. Louisiana and Tennessee on the other hand have these highways signed as Jackson.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: hbelkins on March 09, 2018, 02:25:50 PM
Quote from: UptownRoadGeek on March 09, 2018, 02:15:30 PM
I never understood why Mississippi chose to use Grenada/McComb as control cities on I-55 instead of Memphis/New Orleans. Louisiana and Tennessee on the other hand have these highways signed as Jackson.

Probably the same reason that Pennsylvania uses a bunch of little towns along I-80 instead of NYC and Cleveland Youngstown. Trying to promote local towns vs. more distant larger cities.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: cjk374 on March 09, 2018, 11:21:42 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on March 09, 2018, 02:25:50 PM
Quote from: UptownRoadGeek on March 09, 2018, 02:15:30 PM
I never understood why Mississippi chose to use Grenada/McComb as control cities on I-55 instead of Memphis/New Orleans. Louisiana and Tennessee on the other hand have these highways signed as Jackson.

Probably the same reason that Pennsylvania uses a bunch of little towns along I-80 instead of NYC and Cleveland Youngstown. Trying to promote local towns vs. more distant larger cities.

I-55 southbound from Crystal Springs has 3-destination-listing signs most of the way to LA having New Orleans listed last.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on March 13, 2018, 08:32:38 PM
Quote from: wriddle082 on March 08, 2018, 01:54:37 PM
And then once you enter MS on I-55 south, the control city becomes Grenada, which I believe is halfway to Jackson.  So I'm curious if I-269 south will have Grenada or Tunica as the control city.

The signage plans say Tunica.
Title: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on March 14, 2018, 12:10:10 AM
More photos of I-269:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/58e5a177cb62fcbfb2a6108a8b4ae362.jpg)
Edit: better quality than the original this time, I-269 at SR 385

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/bf871745df6d52d58fd03d9609a752ab.jpg)
New sign at US 70 on ramp to SR 385
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rlb2024 on March 14, 2018, 10:19:00 AM
Quote from: cjk374 on March 09, 2018, 11:21:42 PM
Quote from: hbelkins on March 09, 2018, 02:25:50 PM
Quote from: UptownRoadGeek on March 09, 2018, 02:15:30 PM
I never understood why Mississippi chose to use Grenada/McComb as control cities on I-55 instead of Memphis/New Orleans. Louisiana and Tennessee on the other hand have these highways signed as Jackson.

Probably the same reason that Pennsylvania uses a bunch of little towns along I-80 instead of NYC and Cleveland Youngstown. Trying to promote local towns vs. more distant larger cities.

I-55 southbound from Crystal Springs has 3-destination-listing signs most of the way to LA having New Orleans listed last.

Louisiana uses Hammond as the control city on northbound I-55 from I-10 to I-12, then it uses Jackson from I-12 northward.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on March 16, 2018, 10:35:30 AM
The South traffic cameras at I-269 and MS 305 are showing paving operations in the unopened section of 269.

https://www.mdottraffic.com/
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on March 16, 2018, 09:54:32 PM
Quote from: Brooks on March 14, 2018, 12:10:10 AM
More photos of I-269:

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/58e5a177cb62fcbfb2a6108a8b4ae362.jpg)
Edit: better quality than the original this time, I-269 at SR 385

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180314/bf871745df6d52d58fd03d9609a752ab.jpg)
New sign at US 70 on ramp to SR 385

I'm a little surprised they didn't use Nashville, under Arlington on the 269 north sign. I was out in Arlington a few weeks ago and the on ramp sign was still 385 North Collierville. So it's good to see they keep making progress.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mwb1848 on March 18, 2018, 07:12:09 PM
Without getting into whether Tunica should or shouldn't be a control city, it's fascinating that they used "Miss" after the name. It's pretty obvious why TDOT uses "Jackson Miss" as the I-55 southbound control city to avoid confusion with Jackson, Tenn., which is east of Memphis on I-40.

However, I'm having trouble tracking down another Tunica.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on April 01, 2018, 06:14:56 PM
I drove 385 between Arlington and Collierville a couple of hours ago.

As near as I can tell, re-signing work is complete on the highway itself: The 385 reference markers and reassurance shields are gone; 269 reference markers and reassurance shields are up, and exit numbers have been posted.  The only signs I'm unsure of were the attractions/services signs which still read "Next Exit" rather than "Exit ##"...but I don't remember the contract calling for those to be changed.

On Eastbound I-40, the 1 mile advance sign has not been changed (although there are stakes in place which I assume are indications of work to be done by the contractor), but signs at the interchange itself are as specified in the contract.

The little bit of signage I could see from 385 on cross-roads at interchanges still showed 385.

No pictures, unfortunately.  Besides the issues of not wanting to shoot photos while driving, the phone was down to 25% charge, and Idecided to power down until I got to the airport and needed it for boarding pass duty.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on April 13, 2018, 12:36:02 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180413/a3bdefcf81312074475a60735e17f8c7.jpg)

New format for exit signs on 269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on April 13, 2018, 01:32:54 PM
Probably cheaper than replacing the entire sign.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on April 13, 2018, 04:15:09 PM
How very ALDOT-ish of them...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on April 14, 2018, 07:55:54 AM
Those of you in the Memphis area:  I could use a photo of the guide signage for the I-269 interchange at Red Banks Rd, or whatever they signed it as.  It's the first exit west of I-22/US 78.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: plain on April 18, 2018, 08:48:08 PM
Quote from: Brooks on April 13, 2018, 12:36:02 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180413/a3bdefcf81312074475a60735e17f8c7.jpg)

New format for exit signs on 269.

VDOT did this back when Virginia switched to a mileage based system for most of its interstates, though something about that I-269 example makes it look quite ugly
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: seicer on April 19, 2018, 08:42:33 PM
Well, there is West Virginia and this unique format that I can't recall seeing anywhere else (only applied for 3 digit numbers): https://goo.gl/maps/X8Uihe2iaVM2
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on April 20, 2018, 12:17:36 AM
I-269 set to be complete in September of this year, per MDOT.... http://www.desototimes.com/news/september-target-date-set-for-i--finish/article_31f21ae6-4358-11e8-8fe2-b36d4bcc22ee.html
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on April 20, 2018, 07:38:06 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on April 20, 2018, 12:17:36 AM
I-269 set to be complete in September of this year, per MDOT.... http://www.desototimes.com/news/september-target-date-set-for-i--finish/article_31f21ae6-4358-11e8-8fe2-b36d4bcc22ee.html

Good update, though I wished they spent more time describing what needs to be done to I-269 instead of "look at our cool drones".
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on April 20, 2018, 02:30:33 PM
That's great. Depending on traffic. I can make it from Atlanta to Memphis in less than 6 hours. It used to be a 8+ hour drive. "I'm Jacked About It!"
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on April 20, 2018, 04:01:13 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on April 20, 2018, 07:38:06 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on April 20, 2018, 12:17:36 AM
I-269 set to be complete in September of this year, per MDOT.... http://www.desototimes.com/news/september-target-date-set-for-i--finish/article_31f21ae6-4358-11e8-8fe2-b36d4bcc22ee.html

Good update, though I wished they spent more time describing what needs to be done to I-269 instead of "look at our cool drones".

Yeah....that article did drone on...and on...and on............. :sombrero:
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: cjk374 on April 20, 2018, 06:12:39 PM
Quote from: sparker on April 20, 2018, 04:01:13 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on April 20, 2018, 07:38:06 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on April 20, 2018, 12:17:36 AM
I-269 set to be complete in September of this year, per MDOT.... http://www.desototimes.com/news/september-target-date-set-for-i--finish/article_31f21ae6-4358-11e8-8fe2-b36d4bcc22ee.html

Good update, though I wished they spent more time describing what needs to be done to I-269 instead of "look at our cool drones".

Yeah....that article did drone on...and on...and on............. :sombrero:

That story probably went one of two ways:

1. Tagert gave interesting information we would have wanted to know, and the reporter heard, "road stuff blah blah blah" then heard about drones and asked a hundred questions about them...or

2. Tagert had nothing to share or knew of nothing to share and said, "Oh hey...look at our new cool toys!" and the monkey was pulled off of his back.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Hot Rod Hootenanny on April 20, 2018, 10:14:06 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on April 20, 2018, 12:17:36 AM
I-269 set to be complete in September of this year, per MDOT.... http://www.desototimes.com/news/september-target-date-set-for-i--finish/article_31f21ae6-4358-11e8-8fe2-b36d4bcc22ee.html

So...should we set a date for a I-269 tour (aka Memphis Roadmeet)? Say...The first Saturday in October (Oct. 4th)?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: vdeane on April 21, 2018, 09:57:25 AM
Oct 4, 2018 is a Thursday.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Road Hog on April 21, 2018, 10:24:57 PM
Quote from: plain on April 18, 2018, 08:48:08 PM
Quote from: Brooks on April 13, 2018, 12:36:02 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180413/a3bdefcf81312074475a60735e17f8c7.jpg)

New format for exit signs on 269.

VDOT did this back when Virginia switched to a mileage based system for most of its interstates, though something about that I-269 example makes it look quite ugly
That's how Texas signed exits until recently. It's ugly because the number is centered; Texas flushes(ed) it left.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: txstateends on April 22, 2018, 12:23:53 AM
Quote from: Road Hog on April 21, 2018, 10:24:57 PM
Quote from: plain on April 18, 2018, 08:48:08 PM
Quote from: Brooks on April 13, 2018, 12:36:02 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180413/a3bdefcf81312074475a60735e17f8c7.jpg)

New format for exit signs on 269.

VDOT did this back when Virginia switched to a mileage based system for most of its interstates, though something about that I-269 example makes it look quite ugly
That's how Texas signed exits until recently. It's ugly because the number is centered; Texas flushes(ed) it left.

Well, left if it was a left exit, right if the exit was right.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Hot Rod Hootenanny on April 22, 2018, 10:23:59 PM
Quote from: vdeane on April 21, 2018, 09:57:25 AM
Oct 4, 2018 is a Thursday.
I thought my calendar math was funny. I meant Oct. 6
Title: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on June 16, 2018, 12:10:32 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180616/74a7e31333903cacfc790f54203b4aae.heic)

I believe this is the last of the new I-269 signs to go up on the TN section. This is heading south on SR 385 right before it transitions into 269 before the 40 interchange
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: OracleUsr on June 16, 2018, 09:03:35 PM
TnDOT needs to be more consistent with the use of raised caps on their newer signs.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Revive 755 on June 16, 2018, 10:47:43 PM
Quote from: Brooks on June 16, 2018, 12:10:32 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180616/74a7e31333903cacfc790f54203b4aae.heic)

I believe this is the last of the new I-269 signs to go up on the TN section. This is heading south on SR 385 right before it transitions into 269 before the 40 interchange

I'm not thrilled with the way they are signing the transition from SR 385 to I-269.  It looks like one has to exit to enter I-269 at the same place where the ramp for I-40 exits.  The '1 MILE' should be replaced with 'AHEAD'.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on June 16, 2018, 11:00:12 PM
Quote from: Revive 755 on June 16, 2018, 10:47:43 PM
Quote from: Brooks on June 16, 2018, 12:10:32 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180616/74a7e31333903cacfc790f54203b4aae.heic)

I believe this is the last of the new I-269 signs to go up on the TN section. This is heading south on SR 385 right before it transitions into 269 before the 40 interchange

I'm not thrilled with the way they are signing the transition from SR 385 to I-269.  It looks like one has to exit to enter I-269 at the same place where the ramp for I-40 exits.  The '1 MILE' should be replaced with 'AHEAD'.

Simply lose the "1 MILE" indicator and it becomes a classic pull-through BGS.  Alternately, they could have placed an APL sign here, since both lanes continue on as I-269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on June 24, 2018, 11:42:55 PM
Quote from: sparker on June 16, 2018, 11:00:12 PM
Quote from: Revive 755 on June 16, 2018, 10:47:43 PM
Quote from: Brooks on June 16, 2018, 12:10:32 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180616/74a7e31333903cacfc790f54203b4aae.heic)

I believe this is the last of the new I-269 signs to go up on the TN section. This is heading south on SR 385 right before it transitions into 269 before the 40 interchange

I'm not thrilled with the way they are signing the transition from SR 385 to I-269.  It looks like one has to exit to enter I-269 at the same place where the ramp for I-40 exits.  The '1 MILE' should be replaced with 'AHEAD'.

Simply lose the "1 MILE" indicator and it becomes a classic pull-through BGS.  Alternately, they could have placed an APL sign here, since both lanes continue on as I-269.
Anyone surprised we're not seeing any "To I-22" or Tupelo/Birmingham signs on any stretch of I-269 or connecting major roadways? (I-40, st 385, exc)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on June 25, 2018, 12:42:39 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on June 24, 2018, 11:42:55 PM
Anyone surprised we're not seeing any "To I-22" or Tupelo/Birmingham signs on any stretch of I-269 or connecting major roadways? (I-40, st 385, exc)

No surprise at all.  The de facto TN position is, more or less, "I-22?  Never heard of it."  Now -- if businesses (shopping centers, auto malls, etc.) start cropping up along the N-S section of I-269 in TN -- particularly after the section from I-22 west to I-55/69 in MS opens to traffic -- then some trailblazer I-22 signage may start appearing on I-40 or other intersecting arterials just to prompt additional traffic to utilize I-269 and potentially patronize those businesses.   
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: edwaleni on June 29, 2018, 06:13:33 PM
Quote from: sparker on June 25, 2018, 12:42:39 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on June 24, 2018, 11:42:55 PM
Anyone surprised we're not seeing any "To I-22" or Tupelo/Birmingham signs on any stretch of I-269 or connecting major roadways? (I-40, st 385, exc)

No surprise at all.  The de facto TN position is, more or less, "I-22?  Never heard of it."  Now -- if businesses (shopping centers, auto malls, etc.) start cropping up along the N-S section of I-269 in TN -- particularly after the section from I-22 west to I-55/69 in MS opens to traffic -- then some trailblazer I-22 signage may start appearing on I-40 or other intersecting arterials just to prompt additional traffic to utilize I-269 and potentially patronize those businesses.   

When the Feds come up with I-69 money for TN and MS, you might see some signage updates for I-22 but dont hold your breath.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on June 29, 2018, 06:23:33 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on June 29, 2018, 06:13:33 PM
Quote from: sparker on June 25, 2018, 12:42:39 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on June 24, 2018, 11:42:55 PM
Anyone surprised we're not seeing any "To I-22" or Tupelo/Birmingham signs on any stretch of I-269 or connecting major roadways? (I-40, st 385, exc)

No surprise at all.  The de facto TN position is, more or less, "I-22?  Never heard of it."  Now -- if businesses (shopping centers, auto malls, etc.) start cropping up along the N-S section of I-269 in TN -- particularly after the section from I-22 west to I-55/69 in MS opens to traffic -- then some trailblazer I-22 signage may start appearing on I-40 or other intersecting arterials just to prompt additional traffic to utilize I-269 and potentially patronize those businesses.   

When the Feds come up with I-69 money for TN and MS, you might see some signage updates for I-22 but dont hold your breath.

In all likelihood any I-69 money to be pried loose from Fed sources will be applied to TN well before any additional MS mileage is considered -- primarily to effectively (save close-in Indy and the Ohio River bridge) complete the northeast leg of the overall corridor.  Tunica to Tenaha (TX), except for the utility of a SE Shreveport bypass facility, is the red-haired stepchild of the corridor -- and the one, considering the Mississippi River bridge, that'll require the greatest capital outlay -- so except for some preliminary steps such as presently underway in SE Arkansas, it'll be "procrastination central", most likely not to see much in the way of progress until the segments northeast of Memphis and within TX have been substantially completed.  Of course, all this could change with massive political intervention -- but so far that doesn't seem to be forthcoming.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: tculp on July 13, 2018, 12:05:26 AM
Anyone heard if the September 20th date for estimated completion is going to get moved up? Just wondering if they think they may actually get this open earlier.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on July 13, 2018, 01:55:42 AM
Quote from: tculp on July 13, 2018, 12:05:26 AM
Anyone heard if the September 20th date for estimated completion is going to get moved up? Just wondering if they think they may actually get this open earlier.

Thanks!

There haven't been any new updates since the article saying that 9/20 is the estimated completion date. I'll head out to the area sometime soon and get some pics.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on July 13, 2018, 10:56:01 AM
Quote from: tculp on July 13, 2018, 12:05:26 AM
Anyone heard if the September 20th date for estimated completion is going to get moved up? Just wondering if they think they may actually get this open earlier.

Thanks!

I took a look at the traffic cam that Mississippi has looking Southbound (Looking West) from the I-269 and MS 305 interchange.  It appears to be fully paved and signed in both directions.  But it is not marked yet.

https://www.mdottraffic.com/
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on August 04, 2018, 02:28:50 AM
Apple Maps has updated the I-269 corridor; however, it shows the interstate being complete all the way to Hernando and I-55. Guess they're just getting a jump on things, especially when you consider that they never updated for the completion to MS 305.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on August 07, 2018, 11:07:08 AM
Quote from: tculp on July 13, 2018, 12:05:26 AM
Anyone heard if the September 20th date for estimated completion is going to get moved up? Just wondering if they think they may actually get this open earlier.
Thanks!

This article (http://www.desototimes.com/news/feds-to-get-holly-springs-road-application/article_a30f41d0-99cb-11e8-b9d0-4f2b78dc22d4.html) seems to rule out opening I-269 sooner than September 20, and even suggests it may not occur until early October:

Quote
Huffman, the DeSoto County Board of Supervisors and an array of dignitaries are slated to meet with U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao when she is invited to help cut the ribbon for the nation's newest super highway, Interstate 269, which is tentatively slated for late September or early October.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on August 10, 2018, 11:15:04 AM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 07, 2018, 11:07:08 AM
This article (http://www.desototimes.com/news/feds-to-get-holly-springs-road-application/article_a30f41d0-99cb-11e8-b9d0-4f2b78dc22d4.html) seems to rule out opening I-269 sooner than September 20, and even suggests it may not occur until early October:
Quote
Huffman, the DeSoto County Board of Supervisors and an array of dignitaries are slated to meet with U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao when she is invited to help cut the ribbon for the nation's newest super highway, Interstate 269, which is tentatively slated for late September or early October.

This August 8 article (https://www.southreporter.com/news/highway-projects-moving-along) quotes a MDOT engineer as saying that I-269 will "most likely" open in late September:

Quote
Three projects in the works in Marshall County are progressing well, according to Mitch Turner, engineer with the Batesville office of the Mississippi Department of Transportation ....
He said the remaining section of I-269 in Marshall County will most likely open in late September.
"That will complete the route from I-55 to Ten­nessee,"  Turner said.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on August 19, 2018, 07:54:35 PM
Looked at the 2019 road atlas today and it has 269 as already completed from 22 to 55. Any confirmation on this? This is great not having to use MS 302 to get to 55. That road is hell and is a perfect example of poor urban planning in a area full of sprawl
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on August 19, 2018, 08:21:55 PM
^ This is what happens when you issue atlases with a given year several months before that year actually begins...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on August 19, 2018, 11:21:14 PM
I was kind of skeptical because there were no exit numbers, but I don't think exit numbers will be given until a year from now?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on August 20, 2018, 12:32:52 AM
Quote from: froggie on August 19, 2018, 08:21:55 PM
^ This is what happens when you issue atlases with a given year several months before that year actually begins...

I've got a sneaking suspicion McNally's current cartography "policy" is to project how they estimate things will be at the beginning of the year of the atlas' edition; in this case, they're expecting I-269 to be completed in MS prior to 1/1/19. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on August 20, 2018, 08:57:40 AM
Makes sense. Has anyone seen the interchange at 269/55 I need to know if there are any truck stops in that area since I won't have to go through Southhaven the next time i go to little rock during the hollidays
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on August 20, 2018, 09:36:38 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on August 19, 2018, 11:21:14 PM
I was kind of skeptical because there were no exit numbers, but I don't think exit numbers will be given until a year from now?

The interchange is partially open.  I-55 Exit 283 is currently where the little stub of I-69 diverges from I-55 to go to Tunica.  I-269 (to I-22) will plug in on the east side when it opens in a few weeks.  Even if you were going through now, Byhalia Rd. would probably give you an alternative to 302 for covering the remaining 5 mile gap in 269.  (I'd certainly use it for a standard passenger 4-wheeler; don't know about its suitability for a semi.)

I am not well-versed in truck stops in that area -- my familiarity is mostly from having driven between Memphis and southeast Alabama a few times, and drives to clinch and re-clinch 269.  However, from my recollection, there weren't too many signs of such development along 269 yet.  I think you're limited to the already-existing facilities along 22/78 or 55.   I've stopped at the Flying J in Olive Branch a couple of times when wanting gas and to stretch my legs before getting into Memphis traffic, but that's northwest of the 22(78)/269 interchange and would require backtracking to get to 269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on August 20, 2018, 06:11:05 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on August 19, 2018, 11:21:14 PM
I was kind of skeptical because there were no exit numbers, but I don't think exit numbers will be given until a year from now?

Why would exit numbers not be given for another year?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on August 21, 2018, 08:49:57 AM
^ Unless you have access to the signage plans (which differs from state to state, but as a general rule are not easily accessible to the public), you're not going to know the exit numbers beforehand.  They are not normally announced that far ahead of roadway opening.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on August 21, 2018, 12:19:26 PM
Since the I-55/69/269 Hernando interchange is situated at the southwest terminus of I-269, it would be simple to interpolate the exit numbers simply by calculating the mileage of each exit from the center of that terminating interchange eastward -- unless MSDOT elects to do something out of the ordinary and continue the I-69 aggregate mileage (which, IIRC, is not posted on the E-W "Tunica" segment shared with MS 304) instead.  But I'm guessing that they'll simply start with zero at Hernando; TN mileposts their segment from the MS/TN state line.

Or one could simply wait a couple of months and see the finished product.     
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on August 21, 2018, 07:09:31 PM
Quote from: froggie on August 21, 2018, 08:49:57 AM
^ Unless you have access to the signage plans (which differs from state to state, but as a general rule are not easily accessible to the public), you're not going to know the exit numbers beforehand.  They are not normally announced that far ahead of roadway opening.

I am pretty sure that some of the I-269 signage plans, including the I-22 interchange are on this thread, somewhere...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on August 21, 2018, 10:32:05 PM
^ That would depend in no small part on if J N Winkler has looked for them and if MDOT has changed their policies to openly post them online.  My past experience with MDOT is that their signage plans are only available to the public if you physically go to their plans office at the headquarters building in Jackson.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on September 05, 2018, 04:44:20 PM
Looks like a lot of people are already using I-269 before it's official opening. https://www.localmemphis.com/news/local-news/mississippi-transportation-officials-warn-drivers-to-stay-off-the-i-269-project/1417878384
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mvak36 on September 05, 2018, 04:47:02 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on September 05, 2018, 04:44:20 PM
Looks like a lot of people are already using I-269 before it's official opening. https://www.localmemphis.com/news/local-news/mississippi-transportation-officials-warn-drivers-to-stay-off-the-i-269-project/1417878384
They should put a cop or two out there and ticket every one that goes through there lol.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 05, 2018, 07:03:18 PM
Quote from: mvak36 on September 05, 2018, 04:47:02 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on September 05, 2018, 04:44:20 PM
Looks like a lot of people are already using I-269 before it's official opening. https://www.localmemphis.com/news/local-news/mississippi-transportation-officials-warn-drivers-to-stay-off-the-i-269-project/1417878384
They should put a cop or two out there and ticket every one that goes through there lol.

Looks like that's pretty much what they're doing back there.  This was a persistent problem when I-5 was being built in sections in the San Joaquin Valley; locals would use the partially finished carriageways to get between the various agricultural facilities along the route (the fences were usually the last part to be installed) -- sometimes before the concrete had completely set.  Sometimes the culprits were never caught; the construction crews would get in about 5 a.m. to see tire tracks or worse on the fresh pavement.   
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: cjk374 on September 05, 2018, 08:33:11 PM
When I-49 was under construction between Shreveport and Natchitoches, Foster Campbell was a state representative (now a member of the LA public utilities commission) who was caught driving on the then-closed interstate. How did he get caught??? He drove his car into a 20 foot gap in the concrete pavement. His car was destroyed and he almost died.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Henry on September 06, 2018, 10:15:00 AM
My guess is, they will drive around the wave of orange cones and temporary jersey barriers just to get onto the highways! I'm guessing they're so excited about their forthcoming opening that they don't want to wait that long just to drive even one mile.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 06, 2018, 07:49:10 PM
Quote from: Henry on September 06, 2018, 10:15:00 AM
My guess is, they will drive around the wave of orange cones and temporary jersey barriers just to get onto the highways! I'm guessing they're so excited about their forthcoming opening that they don't want to wait that long just to drive even one mile.

I'd instead guess that those who drive on I-269 pre-opening are either (a) "thrillseekers" attempting to see just what they can get away with, (b) smart-asses trying to forge a shortcut between I-55 and I-22 before it becomes ready to use, or (c) ignorant types who just don't understand the meaning of barriers, even if they don't fully close off the means of egress onto the new facility.  Maybe there might be a miscreant roadgeek within one of the above categories -- but somehow I doubt that particular predilection would be dominant here; driving an unfinished road is usually a "crime of opportunity"!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: oscar on September 09, 2018, 12:42:47 PM
I recall that an about-to-open segment of I-805 in San Diego was used for drag racing. I don't know if any of the racers were ever arrested.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: triplemultiplex on September 11, 2018, 04:17:24 PM
Heh, I did that a few times on part of US 53 before the freeway officially opened through Eau Claire. :biggrin:

Best part was doing that as the snow was still melting off the fully paved roadway in March.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on September 13, 2018, 04:36:11 PM
in all honesty, does this road really need to exist?  what is the AADT on the portion that has been open for a while?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on September 13, 2018, 06:09:48 PM
^ Technically, if you want I-22 to end at a proper Interstate, then yes, it's "needed".

As for your second question, the completed segment north of MS 302 had a 2017 AADT of 8200.  For the record, that's higher than about half of the new I-69 between Evansville and Bloomington.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on September 13, 2018, 06:33:17 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on September 13, 2018, 04:36:11 PM
in all honesty, does this road really need to exist?  what is the AADT on the portion that has been open for a while?

Last published AADT on I-269 between the MS state line and US 72 (presumably before the extension past I-22/US 78 opened) was 8,200.

In Tennessee, the portion of SR 385 / (future?) I-269 south of I-40 was running about 18,000.

Is I-269 necessary today?  Probably not.

Will I-269 be needed 10-20 years from now?  Probably, if DeSoto County and/or long-haul trucking volumes continue to grow.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on September 13, 2018, 06:36:57 PM
It will likely be far more than 10-20 years before Interstate 269 connects with Interstate 69 on both ends.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on September 13, 2018, 09:02:53 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on September 13, 2018, 06:36:57 PM
It will likely be far more than 10-20 years before Interstate 269 connects with Interstate 69 on both ends.

True, but I would expect it to find its footing as long-haul trucking bypass that doesn't add to the mess of I-240, or serving/fueling new outer-metro development long before SIU 8 is built (if it is ever built).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 14, 2018, 07:31:12 AM
^^^^^^^
Unless commercial and housing development expanding outward from Memphis overtakes I-269, it'll probably remain one of the region's lesser trucking thoroughfares -- at least until I-69 is completed both north and south of metro Memphis.  There just isn't a huge volume of traffic heading north on I-55 that turns east on I-40 at this time. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on September 14, 2018, 04:58:18 PM
Quote from: sparker on September 14, 2018, 07:31:12 AM
^^^^^^^
Unless commercial and housing development expanding outward from Memphis overtakes I-269, it'll probably remain one of the region's lesser trucking thoroughfares -- at least until I-69 is completed both north and south of metro Memphis.  There just isn't a huge volume of traffic heading north on I-55 that turns east on I-40 at this time. 

There's a lot of warehouse space going in already along the I-269 corridor south of Collierville, and Norfolk Southern has been expanding its intermodal terminal just east of I-269, so it could get pretty crowded just from locally originating and arriving traffic.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 14, 2018, 09:48:35 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on September 14, 2018, 04:58:18 PM
Quote from: sparker on September 14, 2018, 07:31:12 AM
^^^^^^^
Unless commercial and housing development expanding outward from Memphis overtakes I-269, it'll probably remain one of the region's lesser trucking thoroughfares -- at least until I-69 is completed both north and south of metro Memphis.  There just isn't a huge volume of traffic heading north on I-55 that turns east on I-40 at this time. 

There's a lot of warehouse space going in already along the I-269 corridor south of Collierville, and Norfolk Southern has been expanding its intermodal terminal just east of I-269, so it could get pretty crowded just from locally originating and arriving traffic.

Wow!  Sounds like the I-269 corridor is being groomed as FedEx East!  I-69 development better get cracking sooner than later to provide egress to and from Memphis from all directions; that metro area is certainly positioning itself as the southern version (if not equivalent) of Chicago as far as being "distribution central" (but we sort of knew that all along!).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on September 16, 2018, 02:59:14 PM
They still need to do something about the bottleneck at the Mississippi River. That along with the unfinished I-69 corridor will limit the appeal of I-269. The narrow I-55 bridge across the Mississippi has puny traffic capacity (4 lanes, no shoulders). I-40 is a little better, but still pretty substandard for big picture needs. At least 1 or 2 new Mississippi River crossings are needed. The I-55 bridge needs to be replaced, and its approach thru Memphis to the Mississippi completely re-done. I don't know if the existing I-40 bridge can be expanded from 6 to 8 lanes (with shoulders), but a bridge like that is needed. If new bridges didn't cost a ridiculous fortune it would be pretty obvious the SW end of I-269 should be extended across the Mississippi River to hook up to I-40 in Arkansas (or I-22 should be routed that way). Really one could make a good case for extending I-269 across the Mississippi at both ends North and South of Memphis.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on September 17, 2018, 01:24:05 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on September 13, 2018, 04:36:11 PM
in all honesty, does this road really need to exist?  what is the AADT on the portion that has been open for a while?
This is a good question. Is the interstate between I-22/Hwy 78 to I-55 needed? I think so. I think there is a lot of potential there. Is I 269 needed from I-22/Hwy 78 to I-40? It's probably not.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 17, 2018, 05:33:39 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on September 17, 2018, 01:24:05 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on September 13, 2018, 04:36:11 PM
in all honesty, does this road really need to exist?  what is the AADT on the portion that has been open for a while?
This is a good question. Is the interstate between I-22/Hwy 78 to I-55 needed? I think so. I think there is a lot of potential there. Is I 269 needed from I-22/Hwy 78 to I-40? It's probably not.

Within TN (and north of I-22 in MS for that matter) it's an outer loop intended to divert traffic away from Memphis (although without a complete -- at least north of Memphis -- I-69, its value as that is limited).  From what is stated a few posts back, there is commercial development happening along that corridor, so it may have some local value as such.  To me -- except for its I-22 connection -- it fills the same role as I-265 around Louisville, KY vis-a-vis I-264; the latter (with I-240 as its Memphis analogue) is so inundated with development as to limit its utility as a real bypass; the outer (I-265/Louisville and I-269/Memphis) is positioned to do a better job in that regard.   
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on September 17, 2018, 01:10:48 PM
QuoteI don't know if the existing I-40 bridge can be expanded from 6 to 8 lanes (with shoulders)

It's a through arch bridge, so basically no.

Agree that the Memphis area needs another crossing, but it currently cannot even afford one new crossing, let alone two plus bridge replacements.

From a traffic perspective, the best option would be one extending from the TN 300 spur off I-40/Exit 2A (same location I-69 will split off I-40), crossing the river and bottoms, and reconnecting in the vicinity of the I-40/55 interchange in West Memphis.  This location provides the most utility to traffic.  Crossings at each end of I-269 have been looked at...and while they may help some of the through traffic, they wouldn't capture all through traffic and would do little to address the real issue at the river:  regional traffic within the Memphis area.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on September 17, 2018, 04:18:04 PM
Quote from: froggie on September 17, 2018, 01:10:48 PMIt's a through arch bridge, so basically no.

Agree that the Memphis area needs another crossing, but it currently cannot even afford one new crossing, let alone two plus bridge replacements.

From a traffic perspective, the best option would be one extending from the TN 300 spur off I-40/Exit 2A (same location I-69 will split off I-40), crossing the river and bottoms, and reconnecting in the vicinity of the I-40/55 interchange in West Memphis.  This location provides the most utility to traffic.  Crossings at each end of I-269 have been looked at...and while they may help some of the through traffic, they wouldn't capture all through traffic and would do little to address the real issue at the river:  regional traffic within the Memphis area.


Back when I was a kid living in Memphis, and had the benefit of having a father working in the planning department feeding me "inside information", the TN 300 crossing was considered one of the less-likely alternatives.  While there are some advantages for putting a crossing there, that option had the disadvantages of requiring significant environmental mitigation (the floodplain is very wide at that point), requiring closure of the DeWitt-Spain airport, and doing little to address the issue of Arkansas«»Mississippi traffic.

(That latter point might be less of a concern now, as the the thinking didn't really contemplate the de facto CBD shifting out to East Memphis.)

If there were to be a third crossing, a southern option would have been more likely.  Back in the day, the pie-in-the-sky dream would have put that crossing south of the Allen power plant and sewer treatment facility, connecting to a planned (never built) parkway running more-or-less along the southern edge of the county.

I assume that a southern option is still more likely, but now the powers-that-be would aim for a crossing at the narrow stretch of river above Horshoe Lake / near Walls, MS, and then connect to I-69 from there.  However, I can't imagine any of the three states having sufficient interest to push very hard for a new bridge, and there are plenty of pet projects elsewhere in the country that would be happy to gobble up any federal funds that would otherwise go towards a new crossing.

It might be fun to speculate as to which will get built first:  I-69 between Millington and Dyersburg, or a new Memphis crossing.  :)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on September 17, 2018, 08:07:50 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on September 17, 2018, 04:18:04 PM
Quote from: froggie on September 17, 2018, 01:10:48 PMIt's a through arch bridge, so basically no.

Agree that the Memphis area needs another crossing, but it currently cannot even afford one new crossing, let alone two plus bridge replacements.

From a traffic perspective, the best option would be one extending from the TN 300 spur off I-40/Exit 2A (same location I-69 will split off I-40), crossing the river and bottoms, and reconnecting in the vicinity of the I-40/55 interchange in West Memphis.  This location provides the most utility to traffic.  Crossings at each end of I-269 have been looked at...and while they may help some of the through traffic, they wouldn't capture all through traffic and would do little to address the real issue at the river:  regional traffic within the Memphis area.



I assume that a southern option is still more likely, but now the powers-that-be would aim for a crossing at the narrow stretch of river above Horshoe Lake / near Walls, MS, and then connect to I-69 from there.  However, I can't imagine any of the three states having sufficient interest to push very hard for a new bridge, and there are plenty of pet projects elsewhere in the country that would be happy to gobble up any federal funds that would otherwise go towards a new crossing.

It might be fun to speculate as to which will get built first:  I-69 between Millington and Dyersburg, or a new Memphis crossing.  :)
My guess would be I-69 from Millington to Memphis. There seems to be a push to get I-69 complete to Memphis. I think a bridge crossing will happen way before or if I 69 ever gets completed from Tunica through Texas. Honestly, I don't know if the funding will ever be there for that, when you can use I 55 to I-10 or I-40 down through Little Rock to Texas. But that's another argument. IF there is another crossing over Memphis, logic would say it would be to the south, with a potential I-22 crossing the river around the Tunica Resorts area and connecting with I-40. The only other option and it was talked about, is having I-269 extend north of Meeman Shelby Forest state park and crossing the river there. It would connect with I-55 and be a logical northern bypass of Memphis for people trying to get to Jonesboro and southern Missouri. I know the idea was floated of making that section of I-269 a toll road, to help pay for the bridge. Honestly if the money was there, both bridges and roads in this location make sense. Memphis is already no fan of I-269 and the idea of having a full southern and northern bypass would not excite the local politicians. To say the least. So other than finances, politics are also involved. Anyone who doesn't know, that's a big reason I-40 never went directly through Memphis.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rlb2024 on September 17, 2018, 10:22:04 PM
Any further word on when the stretch between I-22 and I-55 will open?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on September 18, 2018, 12:04:06 AM
Without at least one new Mississippi River crossing, either North or South of Memphis, I-269 will not work as a proper bypass for either I-40 or I-55. Those are the two major Interstates generating lots of commercial and private long distance traffic. I-69 will not be a serious long distance traffic generator as long as it remains unfinished. And even then it will have limited appeal for its really long, crooked route.

A Southern bridge crossing near Tunica (either as I-22 or I-269) connecting to I-40 in Arkansas would give I-40 traffic a fully functional bypass around the South side of the Memphis area. A Northern bridge crossing from the end of I-269 near Millington over to I-55 in Arkansas would give I-55 a fully functional bypass around the East side of Memphis.

I think the Southern bridge idea would have more appeal for multiple reasons. There's not nearly as much swamp flanking the river near Tunica as there is up near Millington. That would make the Southern bridge less expensive to build. The bypass route for I-40 thru traffic going by way of Tunica would be more direct than I-55 traffic going way around the eastern outskirts of Memphis and then back over to Arkansas. I think lots of I-55 traffic would just stay on I-55. Tunica is a big tourist attraction. There's lots of I-40 traffic from the West going there. And then there's traffic heading for the I-22 corridor.

IMHO, a new bridge crossing near Tunica is arguably a bigger, more immediate need than the Great River Bridge project about 85 miles farther South. It may be decades before I-69 is fleshed out to either end of that bridge approach. The only reason I can see building the Great River Bridge now is getting ahead of further cost inflation. But that same problem exists for other Mississippi River crossings needed elsewhere.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 18, 2018, 12:42:47 AM
^^^^^^^^
^^^^^^^^
^^^^^^^^
Part of the problem is that TN state government has never been a fan of Memphis and its MPO; the sociopolitical differences are, in a word, dramatic.  Memphis was one of a handful of Southern cities (along with New Orleans & Atlanta) that actively took part in the '60's-'70's "freeway revolt" with the truncation/reroute of I-40 -- and the powers that be in Nashville haven't forgotten that; Memphis is the localized "poster child" for what in some quarters is derided as "urban activism", anathema to more conservative political circles that have occupied Southern state politics for the last 40 years.  And unlike in GA, state government doesn't have to deal with the urban situations on a daily basis simply because the capital is some 200 miles away from that urban environment.  While Memphis may be at best indifferent to the I-269/TN 385 loop, it's likely seen in Nashville as a way to induce economic power away from Memphis itself toward the outer exurbs, which are seen as more compliant with their agendas, particularly if corporate centers would locate around that periphery.  FedEx's main hub near Memphis Airport provided a needed economic "boost" to the central city despite that firm's own often negative attitude toward urban priorities; providing a "counterbalance" by stacking up employment centers along the eastern I-269 corridor, including rail-to-truck transloading facilities, would dovetail in with the general leanings of those running TN state government. 

If such development flourishes, it wouldn't be a stretch to see a proposal to take the I-269/TN 385 E-W trajectory north of the city across the river to intersect I-55 near the I-555 junction -- simply as a way to further remove the incorporated Memphis city from the regional economic equation by providing a direct cross-river connection that removes traffic bound for the I-269 commercial developments away from I-40 and/or I-240 through the central city.  As has been seen in the last couple of years, longstanding sociopolitical grudges can precipitate policy changes; in this case, revival of previously discarded plans -- but with different rationalizations.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on September 18, 2018, 11:12:14 AM
Once I-269 and I-69 are fleshed out, a southern bypass of Memphis doesn't have to involve Memphis or even Tennessee whatsoever, just Mississippi and Arkansas.  If we're honest about finances, though, it'll be federal money that enables crossing the Mississippi River with the finances of those states, so the Memphis MSA would have some say there.  But it's likely that something catastrophic occurring with one of the current bridges is what it would take to actually make the push of any other crossing within the next 20 years.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: abqtraveler on September 18, 2018, 12:04:34 PM
Quote from: sparker on September 18, 2018, 12:42:47 AM
^^^^^^^^
^^^^^^^^
^^^^^^^^
Part of the problem is that TN state government has never been a fan of Memphis and its MPO; the sociopolitical differences are, in a word, dramatic.  Memphis was one of a handful of Southern cities (along with New Orleans & Atlanta) that actively took part in the '60's-'70's "freeway revolt" with the truncation/reroute of I-40 -- and the powers that be in Nashville haven't forgotten that; Memphis is the localized "poster child" for what in some quarters is derided as "urban activism", anathema to more conservative political circles that have occupied Southern state politics for the last 40 years.  And unlike in GA, state government doesn't have to deal with the urban situations on a daily basis simply because the capital is some 200 miles away from that urban environment.  While Memphis may be at best indifferent to the I-269/TN 385 loop, it's likely seen in Nashville as a way to induce economic power away from Memphis itself toward the outer exurbs, which are seen as more compliant with their agendas, particularly if corporate centers would locate around that periphery.  FedEx's main hub near Memphis Airport provided a needed economic "boost" to the central city despite that firm's own often negative attitude toward urban priorities; providing a "counterbalance" by stacking up employment centers along the eastern I-269 corridor, including rail-to-truck transloading facilities, would dovetail in with the general leanings of those running TN state government. 

If such development flourishes, it wouldn't be a stretch to see a proposal to take the I-269/TN 385 E-W trajectory north of the city across the river to intersect I-55 near the I-555 junction -- simply as a way to further remove the incorporated Memphis city from the regional economic equation by providing a direct cross-river connection that removes traffic bound for the I-269 commercial developments away from I-40 and/or I-240 through the central city.  As has been seen in the last couple of years, longstanding sociopolitical grudges can precipitate policy changes; in this case, revival of previously discarded plans -- but with different rationalizations.

Such logic would help explain why TDOT is in no rush to complete I-69 between Dyersburg and Memphis.  Getting the road completed through the more "politically friendly" region between Dyersburg and Fulton, particularly with Interstate linkages on either end of that segment appears to be about as far as TDOT will ever go with I-69. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: triplemultiplex on September 18, 2018, 04:09:05 PM
Wouldn't be the first red state to punish its liberal enclaves with petty, vindictive bullshit.

This is a place where the federal government would be useful.  Facilitating interstate commerce.  There's dozens of places where leadership at the national level could get something done while states bicker and cry poverty.  Instead we have... not that.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: abqtraveler on September 18, 2018, 08:23:50 PM
Quote from: triplemultiplex on September 18, 2018, 04:09:05 PM
Wouldn't be the first red state to punish its liberal enclaves with petty, vindictive bullshit.

This is a place where the federal government would be useful.  Facilitating interstate commerce.  There's dozens of places where leadership at the national level could get something done while states bicker and cry poverty.  Instead we have... not that.

There are blue states that do the same thing to red enclaves within those states, so it goes both ways...just depends on what state you're in.  That aside, regardless of what political party folks are affiliated with, it sure would be nice if our elected officials would put the people they've been elected to serve ahead of their party ideologies.  I think more would get done if the two sides would come together, have a civilized conversation and make compromises. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on September 18, 2018, 09:16:13 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on September 18, 2018, 11:12:14 AM
Once I-269 and I-69 are fleshed out, a southern bypass of Memphis doesn't have to involve Memphis or even Tennessee whatsoever, just Mississippi and Arkansas.  If we're honest about finances, though, it'll be federal money that enables crossing the Mississippi River with the finances of those states, so the Memphis MSA would have some say there.  But it's likely that something catastrophic occurring with one of the current bridges is what it would take to actually make the push of any other crossing within the next 20 years.

Given that the states you mention are still trying to figure out how to pay for the "Great River Bridge" (I-69), I wouldn't look for a southern Memphis-area crossing anytime soon...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on September 19, 2018, 09:57:42 AM
Whatever it takes to eventually bypass Memphis.  I'm probably not alone in this outlook with anyone west and north of Little Rock, but anytime we head to Florida for vacation, we take US highways from Little Rock to Mobile, AL (other than three dozen miles of I-530) through the depressing delta lands just specifically to not have to deal with Memphis traffic and roads.  Any Mississippi River bridges south if I-55 and north of Helena on roads of freeway quality would eliminate so much navigation and perpetual lane closures due to construction in Memphis.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Wayward Memphian on September 19, 2018, 10:35:01 AM
Quote from: sparker on September 14, 2018, 09:48:35 PM
Quote from: lordsutch on September 14, 2018, 04:58:18 PM
Quote from: sparker on September 14, 2018, 07:31:12 AM
^^^^^^^
Unless commercial and housing development expanding outward from Memphis overtakes I-269, it'll probably remain one of the region's lesser trucking thoroughfares -- at least until I-69 is completed both north and south of metro Memphis.  There just isn't a huge volume of traffic heading north on I-55 that turns east on I-40 at this time. 

There's a lot of warehouse space going in already along the I-269 corridor south of Collierville, and Norfolk Southern has been expanding its intermodal terminal just east of I-269, so it could get pretty crowded just from locally originating and arriving traffic.

Wow!  Sounds like the I-269 corridor is being groomed as FedEx East!  I-69 development better get cracking sooner than later to provide egress to and from Memphis from all directions; that metro area is certainly positioning itself as the southern version (if not equivalent) of Chicago as far as being "distribution central" (but we sort of knew that all along!).

I don't know if you have been paying attention as it's been flying under the radar but there is literally tens of billions in development for Memphis in the pipeline. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on September 19, 2018, 11:31:26 AM
Quote from: triplemultiplexThis is a place where the federal government would be useful.  Facilitating interstate commerce.  There's dozens of places where leadership at the national level could get something done while states bicker and cry poverty.  Instead we have... not that.

These days the federal government is so absent in the planning, funding & building process of any new long distance route. Routes such as I-69 or I-14 have little if any big picture, national-level execution. The routes end up being unfinished little crooked herky-jerky segments of crap only designed for local interests in a specific area. It's like trying to string together a bunch of unrelated bypasses into one route. The exercise ends up really being pork for lawmakers in specific districts and their business interests. The current process is a complete mockery against the very notion of having a properly designed NATIONAL highway network.

Just a random thought: maybe the pathetic mechanisms we have for highway planning are being quietly influenced by groups who don't like highways. I'm not talking NIMBY's, environmentalists, etc. I'm talking about groups like the airline industry lobby. Why blow billions on a new Interstate when the same money can be poured into an airport terminal? Or maybe a new NFL stadium for that matter?

A Western extension of I-269/I-22 across the Mississippi River into Arkansas to I-40 would be a big benefit to long distance traffic. It would even help I-55 thru traffic. If state lawmakers in Nashville don't like inner city Memphis this bypass would, in a way, be a big middle finger to that city, allowing thru traffic to go well around it. The only trouble is Tunica is in Mississippi. That gets us back to the need of having the federal government involved in this stuff rather than just leaving it all up to the states (particularly cash-poor states like Mississippi).

Quote from: abqtravelerThere are blue states that do the same thing to red enclaves within those states, so it goes both ways...just depends on what state you're in.  That aside, regardless of what political party folks are affiliated with, it sure would be nice if our elected officials would put the people they've been elected to serve ahead of their party ideologies.  I think more would get done if the two sides would come together, have a civilized conversation and make compromises.

I don't think I've ever seen a suburb bypassed in favor of a pushing a freeway through a dense (and presumably more liberal) urban center.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 19, 2018, 04:48:39 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on September 19, 2018, 11:31:26 AM
I don't think I've ever seen a suburb bypassed in favor of a pushing a freeway through a dense (and presumably more liberal) urban center.

These days it's more likely that new freeways will extend outward from beltways in a manner calculated to minimize property acquisition cost.  No agency -- or roadway backing entity -- wants to incur the cost, both fiscal and political, of plowing a freeway through either dense urban or even moderately dense suburban territory.  The era of central-city freeway building (at least in respect to new facilities) is past.  Back in the mid-50's, the urban trunks & loops planned in the Yellow Book were to a large degree prompted as a response to the middle-class flight to the suburbs -- intended to provide access so that spending power could return to the city to shop and recreate.  Of course, the '60's saw shopping malls sited along beltways and outlying arterials, which took the wind out of the urban-freeway sails about the same time the urban anti-freeway movement was gelling.  After that, very few urban areas had the will or ability to build out their freeway networks to anywhere close to the original plans. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: cjk374 on September 19, 2018, 06:37:08 PM
Quote from: sparker on September 19, 2018, 04:48:39 PM

The era of central-city freeway building (at least in respect to new facilities) is past.

The I-49 Inner City Connector in Shreveport says hi.   :wave:   :sombrero:
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 19, 2018, 07:07:59 PM
Quote from: cjk374 on September 19, 2018, 06:37:08 PM
Quote from: sparker on September 19, 2018, 04:48:39 PM

The era of central-city freeway building (at least in respect to new facilities) is past.

The I-49 Inner City Connector in Shreveport says hi.   :wave:   :sombrero:

Forgot about that one; but it's likely the exception that proves the rule.  Getting that thing through the approval process was like pulling teeth.  I'm just surprised Citylab, John Norquist, and others didn't come down hard regarding opposition to the project;  fortunately, it seemed to stay just enough under the national radar to slide through.   

Curiously, when a I-10 spur to Dothan, AL was still being considered several years back, the original concept was to route it outside of the peripheral city "loop" that carried US 84 and 231 -- but the downtown merchants' association pressed for an in-city routing following an abandoned rail line so as to (potentially) draw business back to the city center from the commercial areas that were sited along the outer loop.  But with AL's recent deletion of most freeways from its plans -- including that one -- the concept is now moot.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on September 19, 2018, 08:59:25 PM
Quote from: froggie on September 18, 2018, 09:16:13 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on September 18, 2018, 11:12:14 AM
Once I-269 and I-69 are fleshed out, a southern bypass of Memphis doesn't have to involve Memphis or even Tennessee whatsoever, just Mississippi and Arkansas.  If we're honest about finances, though, it'll be federal money that enables crossing the Mississippi River with the finances of those states, so the Memphis MSA would have some say there.  But it's likely that something catastrophic occurring with one of the current bridges is what it would take to actually make the push of any other crossing within the next 20 years.

Given that the states you mention are still trying to figure out how to pay for the "Great River Bridge" (I-69), I wouldn't look for a southern Memphis-area crossing anytime soon...
I agree with this. While Mississippi already has a road built for the interstate (304 to 61) and all they would have to come up with is bridge money for the most part; Arkansas would have to come up with bridge money and a good 30 miles of new interstate. And what towns do you have that would connect Tunica to say West Memphis or Forest City? There is nothing there. I don't see where Arkansas would want to invest a single penny on that project!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Wayward Memphian on September 19, 2018, 09:35:28 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on September 19, 2018, 08:59:25 PM
Quote from: froggie on September 18, 2018, 09:16:13 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on September 18, 2018, 11:12:14 AM
Once I-269 and I-69 are fleshed out, a southern bypass of Memphis doesn't have to involve Memphis or even Tennessee whatsoever, just Mississippi and Arkansas.  If we're honest about finances, though, it'll be federal money that enables crossing the Mississippi River with the finances of those states, so the Memphis MSA would have some say there.  But it's likely that something catastrophic occurring with one of the current bridges is what it would take to actually make the push of any other crossing within the next 20 years.

Given that the states you mention are still trying to figure out how to pay for the "Great River Bridge" (I-69), I wouldn't look for a southern Memphis-area crossing anytime soon...
I agree with this. While Mississippi already has a road built for the interstate (304 to 61) and all they would have to come up with is bridge money for the most part; Arkansas would have to come up with bridge money and a good 30 miles of new interstate. And what towns do you have that would connect Tunica to say West Memphis or Forest City? There is nothing there. I don't see where Arkansas would want to invest a single penny on that project!

If it would be build from say, Lehi to just north of Horseshoe Lake, It would  better connect Arkansas' Intermodal facilities for the growing DCs of Norf Sippi and may even spur further development on this side of the river by removing the Old  bridge bottleneck. And... finally allow that  bridge's issues to be properly addressed. I see it as way more for economic development than opening up land for sub divisions.

The Great River Bridge is overkill, there's a perfectcally good, rather new one just down stream that  could be used for I-69.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Anthony_JK on September 20, 2018, 04:10:48 AM
Quote from: cjk374 on September 19, 2018, 06:37:08 PM
Quote from: sparker on September 19, 2018, 04:48:39 PM

The era of central-city freeway building (at least in respect to new facilities) is past.

The I-49 Inner City Connector in Shreveport says hi.   :wave:   :sombrero:

As well as it's compliment in Lafayette (I-49 Lafayette Connector).

In both cases, though, the downtown connection is shorter and less expensive, and the bypass alternatives either don't exist and would be prohibitly expensive (as the case with I-49 in Lafayette), or are too far away to provide any service to the inner core (such as LA 3132/I-220 as an alternative to the ICC in Shreveport).

This is a moot point regarding Memphis, of course, since they already have I-55/I-240 as the N/S direct route, and I-40/I-240 as a decent near E/W bypass.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Anthony_JK on September 20, 2018, 04:27:45 AM
Quote from: Wayward Memphian on September 19, 2018, 09:35:28 PM

[...]

The Great River Bridge is overkill, there's a perfectcally good, rather new one just down stream that  could be used for I-69.

Not quite.

If you rerouted I-69 along US 82 from Monticello to Greenville just to use the US 82 bridge, you'd add way too much mileage, especially if you kept the Tenaha-Shreveport-Monticello portion.

There is enough justification for a crossing of the Mississippi between Greenville and Helena, and the more direct routing of I-69 would provide relief to the I-30/I-40 corridor through Texarkana and Little Rock.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on September 20, 2018, 02:22:37 PM
Quote from: sparkerThese days it's more likely that new freeways will extend outward from beltways in a manner calculated to minimize property acquisition cost. No agency -- or roadway backing entity -- wants to incur the cost, both fiscal and political, of plowing a freeway through either dense urban or even moderately dense suburban territory. The era of central-city freeway building (at least in respect to new facilities) is past.

That may be the current philosophy (with 2 noted exceptions along I-49 for Shreveport and Lafayette). But let's see how that philosophy holds up over the next 10-20 years. The United States has a bunch of urban zones whose high priced economics make them mathematically unsustainable over the long term. They're bubbles waiting to burst (the situation isn't much better for all those clusters of McMansions in the suburbs and exhurbs either). Right now it's politically, financially and logistically impossible to plow a new freeway to or thru a city center experiencing a trendy renaissance. How difficult will it be 20 years from now when the same zone may be struggling to attract new residents, businesses and customers?

Young adults are getting better and better at avoiding having kids and the soaring costs of parenthood. For people born in the United States we're now getting into negative territory: more people dying than being born. Combine that with the current anti-immigrant fervor, extreme costs of health care, child care, housing, etc and it creates the potential for a serious down-turn in population growth. Add age demographic imbalance to the equation. Our population will be top-heavy with retirement age citizens and short on young, working age adults. All of that added together could create quite the downturn in those pricey city centers.

Ever-improving technology is making it less necessary to work or live in a high priced city, much less a very high priced city center. The same thing goes for even traveling to that city center. Brick and mortar retail is taking a beating from online merchants. Pro sports events and concerts are often price-gouging rip-offs. You can often get a better experience watching the event on the giant 4K UHDTV in the living room. They're building bike paths and other types of green space in these urban centers. There will be fewer people who can afford to live near those attractions. Screw driving a long distance in stop-&-go traffic or taking forever on a bus or train to get there either.

Of course if a downtown/urban center falls into a serious down-turn no one is going to be very enthused about building a new freeway through that zone unless there's an obvious benefit to doing so.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on September 21, 2018, 08:06:43 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on September 20, 2018, 02:22:37 PM
Quote from: sparkerThese days it's more likely that new freeways will extend outward from beltways in a manner calculated to minimize property acquisition cost. No agency -- or roadway backing entity -- wants to incur the cost, both fiscal and political, of plowing a freeway through either dense urban or even moderately dense suburban territory. The era of central-city freeway building (at least in respect to new facilities) is past.

That may be the current philosophy (with 2 noted exceptions along I-49 for Shreveport and Lafayette). But let's see how that philosophy holds up over the next 10-20 years. The United States has a bunch of urban zones whose high priced economics make them mathematically unsustainable over the long term. They're bubbles waiting to burst (the situation isn't much better for all those clusters of McMansions in the suburbs and exhurbs either). Right now it's politically, financially and logistically impossible to plow a new freeway to or thru a city center experiencing a trendy renaissance. How difficult will it be 20 years from now when the same zone may be struggling to attract new residents, businesses and customers?

Young adults are getting better and better at avoiding having kids and the soaring costs of parenthood. For people born in the United States we're now getting into negative territory: more people dying than being born. Combine that with the current anti-immigrant fervor, extreme costs of health care, child care, housing, etc and it creates the potential for a serious down-turn in population growth. Add age demographic imbalance to the equation. Our population will be top-heavy with retirement age citizens and short on young, working age adults. All of that added together could create quite the downturn in those pricey city centers.

Ever-improving technology is making it less necessary to work or live in a high priced city, much less a very high priced city center. The same thing goes for even traveling to that city center. Brick and mortar retail is taking a beating from online merchants. Pro sports events and concerts are often price-gouging rip-offs. You can often get a better experience watching the event on the giant 4K UHDTV in the living room. They're building bike paths and other types of green space in these urban centers. There will be fewer people who can afford to live near those attractions. Screw driving a long distance in stop-&-go traffic or taking forever on a bus or train to get there either.

Of course if a downtown/urban center falls into a serious down-turn no one is going to be very enthused about building a new freeway through that zone unless there's an obvious benefit to doing so.

I've been told that the idea that young people are moving downtown has now reversed and they're moving to the burbs.  is that true?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on September 21, 2018, 10:11:00 AM
^ It's mixed.  There is still a strong desire for young professionals to move into/live in the city, but housing costs in most regions are a constraint.  Those cities that are expanding their housing (DC being one example) are continuing to see all ages move in.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on September 21, 2018, 11:51:15 AM
If young people are moving back to the burbs it might be to move back in with mom and dad.

But, seriously, I don't know if the trend of young people migrating to urban centers is starting to reverse itself. It is clear many of them are financially forced to do things like share living spaces with 1 or more roommates to help cover rent and other living costs. That living situation has its own risks. The delicate financial balance can be thrown out of whack if one or more roommates leave for various life-changing reasons. Everything tends to cost a whole lot more in an urban center.

Developers aren't exactly building lots of affordable single family homes out in the suburbs either. The focus is mostly on McMansions. It takes a good paycheck to be able to afford living on your own in a nice apartment in a city center or a good house out in the burbs. Hell, apartments even in more sketchy parts of a city aren't all that cheap either. Lots of twenty somethings are stuck living with parents unless they make big compromises, like sharing an apartment with multiple roommates, bouncing from one friend's couch to the next, etc.

This trend can't go on forever. Rising interest rates are going to shut a lot of people out of being able to buy homes. I think home lenders have already been allowing buyers to get in way over their heads with mortgage payments equaling as much as 70% of their income. Crazy.

Towns like mine here in Oklahoma are starting to see a little more growth, despite the crisis going on with public schools. Home and apartment prices have gone up some, but not at the stratospheric rates common to the big cities. The US Army is moving more missions to Fort Sill in part to save money due to our lower living costs.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Chris on September 21, 2018, 12:06:46 PM
Millennials are now also entering their thirties on a large scale and are starting to raise families, which is generally more affordable / desirable in the suburbs. Homeownership is out of reach for them in many city centers, or they would have to settle with a lot less space.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 23, 2018, 05:50:46 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on September 21, 2018, 11:51:15 AM
I think home lenders have already been allowing buyers to get in way over their heads with mortgage payments equaling as much as 70% of their income. Crazy.

That was one of the precipitating factors with the housing-finance "crash" of 2007-09.  Living in the Inland Empire at the time, I witnessed the phenomemon first-hand.  The company I worked for until that time had a same-day courier division; some of their more consistent clients in the early 2000's were finance companies that, for lack of a more concise description, basically fabricated income documentation for lower-income speculative home buyers in order to qualify them for the more outlying homes in such places as the high desert (Victorville, Adelanto) and the Hemet Valley southeast of Riverside -- the locations of the last sub $200K housing in those heady times.   They had no problem paying hundreds of dollars for same-day service of mortgage/escrow papers, which allowed them to complete the transactions before anyone looked too hard at them.  These finance companies would then "bundle" those loans with others of a more conventional nature and sell them to even larger entities -- after collecting all the fees and the first layer of profits!  After 2008, some were actually indicted and prosecuted for fraud; but between the evictions and the stoppage of construction of some tracts, leaving many sites half-completed, things didn't even begin to approach some semblance of fiscal order until as late as 2012.   
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MantyMadTown on September 25, 2018, 01:33:24 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on September 19, 2018, 11:31:26 AM
Quote from: triplemultiplexThis is a place where the federal government would be useful.  Facilitating interstate commerce.  There's dozens of places where leadership at the national level could get something done while states bicker and cry poverty.  Instead we have... not that.

These days the federal government is so absent in the planning, funding & building process of any new long distance route. Routes such as I-69 or I-14 have little if any big picture, national-level execution. The routes end up being unfinished little crooked herky-jerky segments of crap only designed for local interests in a specific area. It's like trying to string together a bunch of unrelated bypasses into one route. The exercise ends up really being pork for lawmakers in specific districts and their business interests. The current process is a complete mockery against the very notion of having a properly designed NATIONAL highway network.

Just a random thought: maybe the pathetic mechanisms we have for highway planning are being quietly influenced by groups who don't like highways. I'm not talking NIMBY's, environmentalists, etc. I'm talking about groups like the airline industry lobby. Why blow billions on a new Interstate when the same money can be poured into an airport terminal? Or maybe a new NFL stadium for that matter?

A Western extension of I-269/I-22 across the Mississippi River into Arkansas to I-40 would be a big benefit to long distance traffic. It would even help I-55 thru traffic. If state lawmakers in Nashville don't like inner city Memphis this bypass would, in a way, be a big middle finger to that city, allowing thru traffic to go well around it. The only trouble is Tunica is in Mississippi. That gets us back to the need of having the federal government involved in this stuff rather than just leaving it all up to the states (particularly cash-poor states like Mississippi).

I like the idea of a western extension past the Mississippi River. It would serve as a good connector between I-40 and I-55 while bypassing Memphis. It would just have to be I-22 instead of I-269, because I-269 is planned to end at I-69 along the same roadway.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on September 25, 2018, 06:31:09 AM
Quote from: MantyMadTown on September 25, 2018, 01:33:24 AM
I like the idea of a western extension past the Mississippi River. It would serve as a good connector between I-40 and I-55 while bypassing Memphis. It would just have to be I-22 instead of I-269, because I-269 is planned to end at I-69 along the same roadway.

The odds are pretty good that a southern crossing would take over the I-55 designation.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on September 25, 2018, 08:30:24 AM
The MDOT Traffic Camera at MS 305 and I-269 pointing South (West) shows that the travel lanes have been paved and the center white lines are painted.  They appear as of this morning to be working on the median and shoulder which do not appear to have the final layer of pavement yet.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on September 25, 2018, 08:33:14 AM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on September 25, 2018, 06:31:09 AM
Quote from: MantyMadTown on September 25, 2018, 01:33:24 AM
I like the idea of a western extension past the Mississippi River. It would serve as a good connector between I-40 and I-55 while bypassing Memphis. It would just have to be I-22 instead of I-269, because I-269 is planned to end at I-69 along the same roadway.

The odds are pretty good that a southern crossing would take over the I-55 designation.

As far south as another river crossing would be, it would be tough to make it I-55 without having to backtrack back west several miles along I-40 before splitting off back south on a new alignment.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 25, 2018, 04:13:06 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on September 25, 2018, 08:33:14 AM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on September 25, 2018, 06:31:09 AM
Quote from: MantyMadTown on September 25, 2018, 01:33:24 AM
I like the idea of a western extension past the Mississippi River. It would serve as a good connector between I-40 and I-55 while bypassing Memphis. It would just have to be I-22 instead of I-269, because I-269 is planned to end at I-69 along the same roadway.

The odds are pretty good that a southern crossing would take over the I-55 designation.

As far south as another river crossing would be, it would be tough to make it I-55 without having to backtrack back west several miles along I-40 before splitting off back south on a new alignment.

The only way a I-55 designation makes sense for a southern crossing is if (a) it would cross I-40 in AR and loop back to I-55, intersecting it somewhere near the I-555 junction (the existing I-55 section south of there would be a I-555 extension), and (b) direct N>W flyover ramps were constructed at the current I-55/69/269 interchange at Hernando.  Neither concept is being explored presently, much less a southern MS River crossing (no funding!); what's on the ground after I-269 is opened in the area is likely to be it for quite some time. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on September 25, 2018, 11:53:30 PM
If a new Southern Memphis area crossing of the Mississippi River was built (directly West of where I-269 and MS-304 is pointing) chances are very low it would carry the I-55 designation. Due to the curves of the Mississippi River a new bridge and Interstate would have to connect to I-40 in Arkansas at least 10 or more miles West of the existing I-40/I-55 interchange in West Memphis, AR. That's quite a bit of back-tracking to do to get back to the existing alignment. Then there's the consequence to local businesses along I-55 with changing the highway designation. Any advertising or other business materials mentioning I-55 in relation to their location has to be updated.

It would be more simple for a new crossing over the Mississippi to carry a new number, be it I-269 or I-22. I personally prefer I-22 for a new Southern crossing. There's nothing wrong with having I-22 dovetail into I-40 ten or more miles West of West Memphis.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: lordsutch on September 26, 2018, 12:04:48 AM
Quote from: sparker on September 25, 2018, 04:13:06 PM
The only way a I-55 designation makes sense for a southern crossing is if (a) it would cross I-40 in AR and loop back to I-55, intersecting it somewhere near the I-555 junction (the existing I-55 section south of there would be a I-555 extension), and (b) direct N>W flyover ramps were constructed at the current I-55/69/269 interchange at Hernando.  Neither concept is being explored presently, much less a southern MS River crossing (no funding!); what's on the ground after I-269 is opened in the area is likely to be it for quite some time. 

If it hopes to get funding, a new bridge (no matter where it ends up) probably will have to be justified as part of a rerouting of I-55. It's just a matter of when, not if, although it'll probably take the "old bridge" falling into the river (or pretty close) to actually spur things into action.

There has been some talk in Memphis of building a bridge to provide a second access point to the industrial area on the President's Island peninsula south of downtown, which could be a jumping off point for a southern crossing that would be closer in to West Memphis, although I doubt it would be constructed to a freeway standard unless bigger plans were being considered for it. A north-south bridge across the main river channel in that location could actually tie into I-55 east of West Memphis.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MantyMadTown on September 26, 2018, 01:14:32 AM
An I-55 rerouting would be impractical. The interstate will eventually have to go southeast, and rerouting it to west of where it already is would make an unnecessary loop somewhere, whether it starts in West Memphis or otherwise. It just wouldn't make sense.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on September 26, 2018, 02:26:14 PM
what happened to the plan to realign 55 and removing that stupid cloverleaf at crump?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on September 26, 2018, 02:32:12 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on September 26, 2018, 02:26:14 PM
what happened to the plan to realign 55 and removing that stupid cloverleaf at crump?
No money.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on September 26, 2018, 07:36:41 PM
Quote from: Brooks on September 26, 2018, 02:32:12 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on September 26, 2018, 02:26:14 PM
what happened to the plan to realign 55 and removing that stupid cloverleaf at crump?
No money.

I thought it was the public outcry of effectively having to close the old bridge for a period of time that really did it in.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on September 26, 2018, 07:44:40 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on September 26, 2018, 07:36:41 PM
Quote from: Brooks on September 26, 2018, 02:32:12 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on September 26, 2018, 02:26:14 PM
what happened to the plan to realign 55 and removing that stupid cloverleaf at crump?
No money.

I thought it was the public outcry of effectively having to close the old bridge for a period of time that really did it in.
This is why there will never be an I-22 Mississippi river crossing north of Tunica and connecting I 40. West Memphis is the largest city in a very poor eastern Arkansas. You have to travel up to Jonesboro to find a larger one. That town depends on tourism and generates a lot of money going to greyhound park. They now have a casino and they have been the main local rival of the Tunica casinos for years. Arkansas and West Memphis would never agree to divert traffic around West Memphis and right into Tunica. Mississippi would love it, but Arkansas would never spend a penny to build that road. For obvious reasons that I just mentioned and the fact that there is literally nothing there. Yes, West Memphis was already throwing a fit in traffic that would be cut off from the bridge closing down.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Wayward Memphian on September 27, 2018, 03:16:18 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on September 26, 2018, 07:44:40 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on September 26, 2018, 07:36:41 PM
Quote from: Brooks on September 26, 2018, 02:32:12 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on September 26, 2018, 02:26:14 PM
what happened to the plan to realign 55 and removing that stupid cloverleaf at crump?
No money.

I thought it was the public outcry of effectively having to close the old bridge for a period of time that really did it in.
This is why there will never be an I-22 Mississippi river crossing north of Tunica and connecting I 40. West Memphis is the largest city in a very poor eastern Arkansas. You have to travel up to Jonesboro to find a larger one. That town depends on tourism and generates a lot of money going to greyhound park. They now have a casino and they have been the main local rival of the Tunica casinos for years. Arkansas and West Memphis would never agree to divert traffic around West Memphis and right into Tunica. Mississippi would love it, but Arkansas would never spend a penny to build that road. For obvious reasons that I just mentioned and the fact that there is literally nothing there. Yes, West Memphis was already throwing a fit in traffic that would be cut off from the bridge closing down.

That bridge would do nothing to negate Southland's main advantage over Tunica, it's still closer to Memphis patrons with or without a new bridge. All it needs to do is build a tower and offer up a performance venue and buy up some surrounding property (boat dealership cheap motel, truck year in rear and class it up a bit and it's on par with anything Tunica has.  Arkansas finally authorizing full gaming would be the feather in the cap.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on September 28, 2018, 09:34:55 AM
Quote from: Brooks on September 26, 2018, 02:32:12 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on September 26, 2018, 02:26:14 PM
what happened to the plan to realign 55 and removing that stupid cloverleaf at crump?
No money.
Just build 2 flyovers for 55 and it'll be fine, they can be under or above ground.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on September 28, 2018, 09:38:49 AM
^ It's not that easy.  Not enough space between the river and the interchange for the type of flyovers you're suggesting.  Nevermind that, because of the bridge width constraint, the "northbound" flyover could only be a single lane.

And "no money" applies just as much to "2 flyovers" as it does to the earlier interchange proposal.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 28, 2018, 12:19:39 PM
^^^^^^^
It's not likely that the I-55/Crump interchange upgrade will be prioritized, not only because of the drawbacks cited above (necessity of bridge closing, fiscal considerations) but also because it enhances the aspect of I-55 being simply a "pass-through" in regards to both the state of Tennessee but also greater Memphis in general.  The sole attractant anywhere near the route is Graceland -- and that's even on the "old route" of US 51. 

The one thing that could advance the development of the revised interchange would be a general increase in cross-river traffic, particularly the commercial variety.  The FedEx distribution center is near I-240 between I-55 and the Lamar Ave. interchange; trucks coming from the west or north (via I-55) would instinctively use the I-55 rather than the I-40 river crossing to avoid the Memphis CBD; from personal experience, I-55 traffic through the current Crump interchange tends to clog up when there's several trucks jockeying for position in the right lane (in both directions) to utilize the ramps.  If such traffic were to increase significantly -- or local traffic adding to the mix -- whatever efficiencies attached to the I-55 crossing would diminish or simply disappear.  With only 5 lanes per direction parsed between the two river crossings -- and no new alternate bridge development in sight -- push will likely come to shove at some time, and the upgrades will be done -- even though TNDOT will likely procrastinate as long as they can!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rcm195 on September 28, 2018, 09:02:53 PM
Just wondering, what was the history of this particular route across this bridge and how I-55 and earlier I-40 were run this way. I understand this was the only bridge at the time. I guess I'm asking was there any other design other than the ultra tight cloverleaf? When exactly was the interstate built here? I remember my Dad telling me prior to this bridge that an old train bridge went across the Mississippi and it had two very narrow one way roads built on either side of it for east and west bound traffic. I don't believe it's the current train bridge.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 28, 2018, 09:17:55 PM
The Mississippi & Arkansas bridge was built in 1949 as a replacement for the 2-lane facility described above on each side of the "Frisco" (SLSF) railroad bridge.  It was built as a conventional 4-lane facility (which is why it doesn't feature Interstate-spec shoulders) to carry US 61/64/70/79 across the river.  Apparently the Crump cloverleaf was built to take up minimal space at the bottom of the east bridge approach -- but obviously has outlived its usefulness. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on September 28, 2018, 09:21:38 PM
Quote from: sparker on September 28, 2018, 09:17:55 PM
The Mississippi & Arkansas bridge was built in 1949 as a replacement for the 2-lane facility described above on each side of the "Frisco" (SLSF) railroad bridge.  It was built as a conventional 4-lane facility (which is why it doesn't feature Interstate-spec shoulders) to carry US 61/64/70/79 across the river.  Apparently the Crump cloverleaf was built to take up minimal space at the bottom of the east bridge approach -- but obviously has outlived its usefulness.
The Harahan Bridge was the one that carried the roadways, not the Frisco.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on September 29, 2018, 01:36:21 AM
Quote from: Brooks on September 28, 2018, 09:21:38 PM
Quote from: sparker on September 28, 2018, 09:17:55 PM
The Mississippi & Arkansas bridge was built in 1949 as a replacement for the 2-lane facility described above on each side of the "Frisco" (SLSF) railroad bridge.  It was built as a conventional 4-lane facility (which is why it doesn't feature Interstate-spec shoulders) to carry US 61/64/70/79 across the river.  Apparently the Crump cloverleaf was built to take up minimal space at the bottom of the east bridge approach -- but obviously has outlived its usefulness.
The Harahan Bridge was the one that carried the roadways, not the Frisco.

I stand corrected.  Forgot there were 2 RR bridges paralleling each other.  The Frisco bridge carried its namesake rail line, while the Harahan was a joint facility of the Rock Island (CRI&P) and Missouri Pacific.  Both the latter lines terminated in Memphis, while the Frisco headed SE (more or less parallel to today's I-22) to Birmingham, with a southern branch to Mobile, AL. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on October 01, 2018, 08:56:48 PM
This new article by the commercial appeal is very interesting on the I-269 effect of suburban Memphis. The sleepy bedroom towns that are part of the Memphis Metro, but are not really connected to the big city like Bartlett, Germantown, exc. I found it very interesting that local leaders and officials from Millington are really pushing to have I-69 from I-269 to I-40 built ASAP! They see it as a major growth for the town of Millington. https://www.commercialappeal.com/story/money/2018/09/29/269-corridor-game-changer-millington-memphis/1367711002/
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 02, 2018, 05:15:22 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on October 01, 2018, 08:56:48 PM
This new article by the commercial appeal is very interesting on the I-269 effect of suburban Memphis. The sleepy bedroom towns that are part of the Memphis Metro, but are not really connected to the big city like Bartlett, Germantown, exc. I found it very interesting that local leaders and officials from Millington are really pushing to have I-69 from I-269 to I-40 built ASAP! They see it as a major growth for the town of Millington. https://www.commercialappeal.com/story/money/2018/09/29/269-corridor-game-changer-millington-memphis/1367711002/

From the POV of the Memphis metro area, the I-69 segment between TN 300 and TN 385 actually functions as the completion of the outer loop, with Millington as sort of a "fulcrum" between the N-S and E-W segments.  It's always served as something of an exurb in any case; effecting the I-69 connection would functionally advance the town to a genuine suburb -- attracting both roadside businesses as well as other enterprises requiring multiple egress facilities.  And as the junction point for the future I-69 to the north, it's positioned to be a prime location for distribution warehousing. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Henry on October 02, 2018, 10:12:14 AM
They probably forgot that a small part of I-69 in the area already exists (hello, TN 300?). Add the also already-existing I-40, I-240 and I-55 corridors to the mix, and the highway is basically complete through there, with the northern segments being the only thing needed to be constructed.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on October 02, 2018, 02:08:07 PM
Quote from: Henry on October 02, 2018, 10:12:14 AM
They probably forgot that a small part of I-69 in the area already exists (hello, TN 300?). Add the also already-existing I-40, I-240 and I-55 corridors to the mix, and the highway is basically complete through there, with the northern segments being the only thing needed to be constructed.

While approval has been given for designating TN 300 and the relevant portions of I-40/I-240/I-55 in Tennessee as I-69, TDOT hasn't acted on that approval.

It might not be accurate to say that I-69 "exists" in Tennessee just yet.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 02, 2018, 07:09:27 PM
There's still several miles of slogging down a conventional 4-lane divided US 51 to deal with between TN 300 and TN 385; that, and the completed segment comprising I-55, I-240, I-40, and TN 300 respectively from the state line northward, comprise SIU 9 of the entire I-69 project.  So far, that stretch hasn't garnered much discussion; right now the only actual construction activity on I-69 in TN is confined to SIU 7, the segment from I-155 at Dyersburg north to the KY state line.  SIU 8, from Millington north to Dyersburg, is presently under study regarding exact routing, while the unconstructed portion of  SIU 9, bypassing the commercial and housing areas just north of TN 300, has been effectively ignored -- or left for last -- due to fiscal and NIMBY factors.  That is what the Millington-based group appears to wish to remedy by flipping the order of development on its head -- doing SIU 9 as the completion of a northern metro "loop" with the E-W portion of TN 385/I-269 and leaving SIU 8 north of Millington for future action.  This group sees connectivity between Millington and north Memphis as more vital to its interest than a connection north to Dyersburg because of the potential for employment centers to locate along 385/269 -- or spill over to the proposed I-69 -- and the proposed I-69 to function as a conduit for workers living in Memphis (a "reverse commute", if you will).  In short, they see I-69 as a northwestern equivalent of the E-W section of TN 385 between I-240 and I-269 -- an efficient egress point to get Memphis-based employees and commercial traffic out to the I-269 loop -- presently lacking north and west of the 40/269 junction.   Millington envisions itself as the junction between the I-269 "wheel" and the westernmost of the "spokes", the I-69 corridor -- and as such in a prime position to expand its economic possibilities vis-à-vis the greater Memphis area.     
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on October 03, 2018, 02:59:19 AM
Quote from: sparker on October 02, 2018, 07:09:27 PM
There's still several miles of slogging down a conventional 4-lane divided US 51 to deal with between TN 300 and TN 385; that, and the completed segment comprising I-55, I-240, I-40, and TN 300 respectively from the state line northward, comprise SIU 9 of the entire I-69 project.  So far, that stretch hasn't garnered much discussion; right now the only actual construction activity on I-69 in TN is confined to SIU 7, the segment from I-155 at Dyersburg north to the KY state line.  SIU 8, from Millington north to Dyersburg, is presently under study regarding exact routing, while the unconstructed portion of  SIU 9, bypassing the commercial and housing areas just north of TN 300, has been effectively ignored -- or left for last -- due to fiscal and NIMBY factors.  That is what the Millington-based group appears to wish to remedy by flipping the order of development on its head -- doing SIU 9 as the completion of a northern metro "loop" with the E-W portion of TN 385/I-269 and leaving SIU 8 north of Millington for future action.  This group sees connectivity between Millington and north Memphis as more vital to its interest than a connection north to Dyersburg because of the potential for employment centers to locate along 385/269 -- or spill over to the proposed I-69 -- and the proposed I-69 to function as a conduit for workers living in Memphis (a "reverse commute", if you will).  In short, they see I-69 as a northwestern equivalent of the E-W section of TN 385 between I-240 and I-269 -- an efficient egress point to get Memphis-based employees and commercial traffic out to the I-269 loop -- presently lacking north and west of the 40/269 junction.   Millington envisions itself as the junction between the I-269 "wheel" and the westernmost of the "spokes", the I-69 corridor -- and as such in a prime position to expand its economic possibilities vis-à-vis the greater Memphis area.   
It makes me wonder how effective they can really be to get this moved ahead on the priority list. I get the importance for Millington and Northern Shelby County. TDOT as we know, really doesn't care a great deal about the Memphis Metro area. Not from a priority standpoint anyway. So it makes me wonder if they would even take a listen and switch the pecking order. Right now it seems that SIU 9 has been intended as the final piece. I'm not sure how much money the cost would be to complete SIU 9 from Millington to TN 300. I'm sure TDOT wont post a rush on it though. There are so many politics involved in things like this. We will have to see what happens.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 03, 2018, 04:48:34 AM
^^^^^^^^
Frankly, neither SIU (8 or 9) is probably going to rank particularly high on TDOT's priority list -- but the fact that there's now a "squeaky wheel" in the mix in the name of the Millington advocacy group might have some "pull" if and when a decision to complete I-69 beyond what's already in the works to the north comes about.  Both segments will require mostly new-terrain construction to avoid conflict with commercial access to existing US 51, so it may well come down to what more readily fits into the upcoming budget outlays -- and the uncompleted portion of SIU 9 is considerably shorter.  OTOH, the route selection process for SIU 8 is farther along -- so at present it looks like something of a wash!  Not to make light of the situation, but a coin-flip could well provide the decision!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: vdeane on October 03, 2018, 01:02:37 PM
I would think it would be more beneficial for SIU 9 to be done first.  It's more likely to have ROW become expensive due to development, and it serves the metro area.  SIU 8 would seem to be mainly important for connecting SIU 9 to SIU 7.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on October 03, 2018, 03:44:51 PM
Checking the Mississippi DOT Traffic Cameras at I-269 and MS305 again.

https://www.mdottraffic.com/

1. I-269 is completed as far as I can see within the Southbound camera's view, striped and ready to go.

2. MDOT's traffic camera map has camera icons for the last section of I-269 on the map (but not the actual stretch of the interstate), cameras are not live however.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on October 03, 2018, 06:40:10 PM
I'm hoping that the stretch from I-22 to I-55 will open in Mid November. I do not want to be no where near MS 302 IN Southaven during black Friday weekend. That area is a cluster**** of urban sprawl due to a lack of urban planning...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rlb2024 on October 04, 2018, 04:02:30 PM
Just saw a posting from Southaven officials that the I-269 ribbon-cutting will be Friday, October 26 at 10:00am.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 04, 2018, 04:58:33 PM
Quote from: rlb2024 on October 04, 2018, 04:02:30 PM
Just saw a posting from Southaven officials that the I-269 ribbon-cutting will be Friday, October 26!at 10:00am.

At least it's within the original projected timeframe, unlike some other jurisdictions we know all too well (take note, PA!). 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on October 04, 2018, 06:15:45 PM
Nice to hear about the opening. I hope restaurant and gas station development begins at or before the interchange with IH 55, sometime soon. I have a feeling that area will be a hub for warehouse development...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 05, 2018, 06:49:00 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on October 04, 2018, 06:15:45 PM
Nice to hear about the opening. I hope restaurant and gas station development begins at or before the interchange with IH 55, sometime soon. I have a feeling that area will be a hub for warehouse development...

Since the 55/69/269 junction area and points to the east along the new I-269 alignment are still within the Greater Memphis area, exactly where new warehousing is situated will largely depend upon the taxation policies within each state and any local incentives or inducements the various jurisdictions are willing to offer to entice firms to locate there.  That sort of thing will determine whether warehousing in concentrated along the MS portion of I-269 or, alternately, along the TN section.  Roadside businesses catering to the traveler are relatively fungible items, whereas business sites where the freeway is merely a means of access rather than a source of income in itself will locate where a firm's management can get better terms regarding the cost of day-to-day operation.     
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: edwaleni on October 07, 2018, 01:02:36 AM
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1934/30210514257_3127f53bf4_c.jpg)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on October 08, 2018, 01:26:48 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on October 07, 2018, 01:02:36 AM
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1934/30210514257_3127f53bf4_c.jpg)
:-o

If you look north, you can see TN 385 is no longer north of I-269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on October 08, 2018, 02:54:21 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on October 08, 2018, 01:26:48 PM
If you look north, you can see TN 385 is no longer north of I-269.

Yes. As of whenever the TN385»I-269 changeover is made official, TN 385 will have two non-contiguous segments:  between I-240 and I-269; and between US 51 and I-40.

(TDOT was supposed to have issued a press release after they finished the re-signing project to make the change "official".  I suspect that it will now be buried in with the announcement of the opening of the final segment in a few weeks.)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Ryctor2018 on October 16, 2018, 10:24:07 PM
This is another webpage on the opening of Interstate 269 later this month. The page includes a neat pic: http://www.desototimes.com/news/i--official-opening-slated-for-oct/article_62e1f7d0-c8ef-11e8-bead-07a09913a4b1.html
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:29:33 AM
I don't understand why Mississippi keeps adding new interstates they know they can't afford to maintain and can barely justify to exist in the first place.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on October 17, 2018, 08:49:55 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:29:33 AM
I don't understand why Mississippi keeps adding new interstates they know they can't afford to maintain and can barely justify to exist in the first place.

Same reason Arkansas keeps building new highways?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:56:38 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 17, 2018, 08:49:55 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:29:33 AM
I don't understand why Mississippi keeps adding new interstates they know they can't afford to maintain and can barely justify to exist in the first place.

Same reason Arkansas keeps building new highways?

Add Alabama to that list too. Why do they need i-85 to go further? why does i-422 need to exist at all? i-14 (the entire route) really? come on!

I see no reason for this highway to exist in MS at all.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on October 17, 2018, 09:01:11 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:56:38 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 17, 2018, 08:49:55 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:29:33 AM
I don't understand why Mississippi keeps adding new interstates they know they can't afford to maintain and can barely justify to exist in the first place.

Same reason Arkansas keeps building new highways?

Add Alabama to that list too. Why do they need i-85 to go further? why does i-422 need to exist at all? i-14 (the entire route) really? come on!

I see no reason for this highway to exist in MS at all.

I believe the I-85 west extension project has been cancelled.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 09:09:44 AM
Quote from: codyg1985 on October 17, 2018, 09:01:11 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:56:38 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 17, 2018, 08:49:55 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:29:33 AM
I don't understand why Mississippi keeps adding new interstates they know they can't afford to maintain and can barely justify to exist in the first place.

Same reason Arkansas keeps building new highways?

Add Alabama to that list too. Why do they need i-85 to go further? why does i-422 need to exist at all? i-14 (the entire route) really? come on!

I see no reason for this highway to exist in MS at all.

I believe the I-85 west extension project has been cancelled.

So AL 108 will just be that stub forever?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on October 17, 2018, 09:31:45 AM
The Montgomery Outer Loop (AL 108) is still planned.  What Cody was referring to was the I-85 extension west of Montgomery to I-20/59.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on October 17, 2018, 06:55:05 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:56:38 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 17, 2018, 08:49:55 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:29:33 AM
I don't understand why Mississippi keeps adding new interstates they know they can't afford to maintain and can barely justify to exist in the first place.

Same reason Arkansas keeps building new highways?

I see no reason for this highway to exist in MS at all.

Outside of I 269 from I-55 to I-22, I agree with you. That segment should be built and called I-22, because it connects Birmingham, Atlanta, and the southeast with Memphis. As for I-269 from the I-22 junction to the north through I-40, I would call that a complete waste of money.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 18, 2018, 03:14:26 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on October 17, 2018, 06:55:05 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:56:38 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 17, 2018, 08:49:55 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on October 17, 2018, 08:29:33 AM
I don't understand why Mississippi keeps adding new interstates they know they can't afford to maintain and can barely justify to exist in the first place.

Same reason Arkansas keeps building new highways?

I see no reason for this highway to exist in MS at all.

Outside of I 269 from I-55 to I-22, I agree with you. That segment should be built and called I-22, because it connects Birmingham, Atlanta, and the southeast with Memphis. As for I-269 from the I-22 junction to the north through I-40, I would call that a complete waste of money.

The sole raison d'etre for I-269 is funding connected to the overall I-69/HPC #18 corridor.  TN at least had the good sense to insist that it be routed over TN 385, a planned and/or existing freeway facility, so their initial out-of-pocket expenses would be simply for that I-269 portion between the state line and TN 385.  The I-269 "brief" was as an outer Memphis bypass eventually connecting to the parent I-69 at both ends.  MS was eager to develop this particular corridor since the region anchored by Storm Lake, Hernando, and Olive Branch, due to both housing and commercial "spillover" from Memphis, is one of the fastest growing exurban areas in the South and needed a freeway corridor to tie the disparate parts of the region together.   And once the I-55-to-Tunica section of parent I-69, while primarily initiated to expedite traffic to the gaming facilities along the river, was built a dozen years ago, finishing up the I-269 loop as an extension of that initial segment was inevitable.  And now that the I-269 corridor in both states has become the focal point of regional commercial development, the entire concept is, to coin a phrase, "retroactively justified".  Regardless of the initially proffered reasons for deploying the I-269 corridor to begin with, it is and always will be a means to an end -- the economic development of the Memphis-area periphery.   
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on October 18, 2018, 02:01:49 PM
Quote from: Interstate 69 Fan on October 08, 2018, 01:26:48 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on October 07, 2018, 01:02:36 AM
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1934/30210514257_3127f53bf4_c.jpg)
:-o

If you look north, you can see TN 385 is no longer north of I-269.

Street View also shows that on mainline I-269 and at I-40, Jackson Miss is used as the control city for SB I-269.

(https://i.imgur.com/9COP1DT.jpg)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on October 18, 2018, 02:07:32 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on June 29, 2018, 06:13:33 PM
Quote from: sparker on June 25, 2018, 12:42:39 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on June 24, 2018, 11:42:55 PM
Anyone surprised we're not seeing any "To I-22" or Tupelo/Birmingham signs on any stretch of I-269 or connecting major roadways? (I-40, st 385, exc)

No surprise at all.  The de facto TN position is, more or less, "I-22?  Never heard of it."  Now -- if businesses (shopping centers, auto malls, etc.) start cropping up along the N-S section of I-269 in TN -- particularly after the section from I-22 west to I-55/69 in MS opens to traffic -- then some trailblazer I-22 signage may start appearing on I-40 or other intersecting arterials just to prompt additional traffic to utilize I-269 and potentially patronize those businesses.   

When the Feds come up with I-69 money for TN and MS, you might see some signage updates for I-22 but dont hold your breath.

I doubt it will ever happen. If Shelby/Fayette Counties were in TDOT's Chattanooga Region, then maybe (using I-59 as a precedent), but I don't expect to see I-22 signage with the TDOT Jackson Region. I am really curious to see how the I-55/69/269 interchange is signed once it opens and whether I-22 signs are posted there.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 18, 2018, 05:03:40 PM
^^^^^^^^
I'd guess some sort of secondary (roadside BGS) signage indicating that I-269 is indeed the way to access I-22 will be posted at least SB on I-55/69.  MS actually has vested interest in the I-22 corridor (unlike TN), so they have no reason to avoid posting some sort of trailblazers.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: wdcrft63 on October 18, 2018, 07:01:19 PM
Quote from: sparker on October 18, 2018, 05:03:40 PM
^^^^^^^^
I'd guess some sort of secondary (roadside BGS) signage indicating that I-269 is indeed the way to access I-22 will be posted at least SB on I-55/69.  MS actually has vested interest in the I-22 corridor (unlike TN), so they have no reason to avoid posting some sort of trailblazers.
If you have to put up signs that say TO I-22, why not strip off the TO and call the road I-22?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on October 18, 2018, 08:17:29 PM
As usual - my Wikipedia edit saying I-269 ends at I-40 gets reverted  :-/
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 18, 2018, 09:22:09 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on October 18, 2018, 07:01:19 PM
Quote from: sparker on October 18, 2018, 05:03:40 PM
^^^^^^^^
I'd guess some sort of secondary (roadside BGS) signage indicating that I-269 is indeed the way to access I-22 will be posted at least SB on I-55/69.  MS actually has vested interest in the I-22 corridor (unlike TN), so they have no reason to avoid posting some sort of trailblazers.
If you have to put up signs that say TO I-22, why not strip off the TO and call the road I-22?

If a WB 22>SB 269 flyover had been constructed at that interchange rather than a standard cloverleaf, I'd be inclined to agree -- but snaking the mainline of a 2di around a 30mph loop just isn't considered optimal in most states (except IL, which has multiple instances).  Besides, a "TO" notation for the relatively short distance involved is more than adequate -- at least for the time being.  If there are issues with drivers being confused down the line, it's something that could be corrected with better signage.  And since we've yet (at least on this forum) to see the signage plans (hint, hint to anyone who has access to such) for the interchange, we may be arguing over nothing -- MSDOT could do it right and sign the ramps to I-269 as "I-269 (whatever control city is used) TO I-22 EAST" right on the overhead BGS -- in which case, there should be no issue.  But I'll be willing to bet that initially any I-22 reference will be reserved for secondary signage only -- and I hope I'm wrong about that!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on October 19, 2018, 12:05:11 AM
Quote from: sparker on October 18, 2018, 09:22:09 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on October 18, 2018, 07:01:19 PM
Quote from: sparker on October 18, 2018, 05:03:40 PM
^^^^^^^^
I'd guess some sort of secondary (roadside BGS) signage indicating that I-269 is indeed the way to access I-22 will be posted at least SB on I-55/69.  MS actually has vested interest in the I-22 corridor (unlike TN), so they have no reason to avoid posting some sort of trailblazers.
If you have to put up signs that say TO I-22, why not strip off the TO and call the road I-22?

If a WB 22>SB 269 flyover had been constructed at that interchange rather than a standard cloverleaf, I'd be inclined to agree -- but snaking the mainline of a 2di around a 30mph loop just isn't considered optimal in most states (except IL, which has multiple instances).  Besides, a "TO" notation for the relatively short distance involved is more than adequate -- at least for the time being.  If there are issues with drivers being confused down the line, it's something that could be corrected with better signage.  And since we've yet (at least on this forum) to see the signage plans (hint, hint to anyone who has access to such) for the interchange, we may be arguing over nothing -- MSDOT could do it right and sign the ramps to I-269 as "I-269 (whatever control city is used) TO I-22 EAST" right on the overhead BGS -- in which case, there should be no issue.  But I'll be willing to bet that initially any I-22 reference will be reserved for secondary signage only -- and I hope I'm wrong about that!
Lets not forget that dreadful cloverleaf on I-55 right up the road in downtown Memphis. That thing is awful and has been there for years.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 19, 2018, 01:22:16 AM
Quote from: jamierazorback on October 19, 2018, 12:05:11 AM
Lets not forget that dreadful cloverleaf on I-55 right up the road in downtown Memphis. That thing is awful and has been there for years.

Addressed in some detail about 40-odd replies ago; (1) lack of funds despite plans being in place, and (2) TNDOT's not about to prioritize a section of I-55 that comes into the state and goes right out again.  Oh, and (3) it's Memphis, never a fave with TN state government over the past few decades.   
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: vdeane on October 19, 2018, 01:15:37 PM
Not to mention that I-69 itself goes through a loop ramp just a few miles west of I-22.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 19, 2018, 06:55:51 PM
Quote from: vdeane on October 19, 2018, 01:15:37 PM
Not to mention that I-69 itself goes through a loop ramp just a few miles west of I-22.

Greater Memphis seems to be "cloverleaf central" (with the 40/269 interchange following suit).  Face it -- for a cash-strapped DOT they're cheaper to build; they get the job done (not too elegantly, of course!), and unless hemmed in with adjacent development, they can be later modified with flyovers.  At least the newer ones feature C/D lanes to avoid main-carriageway weaving conflicts. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on October 19, 2018, 08:23:54 PM
Quote from: sparkerFace it -- for a cash-strapped DOT they're cheaper to build; they get the job done (not too elegantly, of course!), and unless hemmed in with adjacent development, they can be later modified with flyovers.

On this note, keep in mind that Tennessee is a pay-as-you-go state.  They do not float bonds for roadway projects.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: wriddle082 on October 20, 2018, 12:35:34 AM
Quote from: froggie on October 19, 2018, 08:23:54 PM
Quote from: sparkerFace it -- for a cash-strapped DOT they're cheaper to build; they get the job done (not too elegantly, of course!), and unless hemmed in with adjacent development, they can be later modified with flyovers.

On this note, keep in mind that Tennessee is a pay-as-you-go state.  They do not float bonds for roadway projects.

Indeed, which is why they weren't able to afford the upcoming I-440 widening/reconstruction without raising the gas tax.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on October 22, 2018, 11:10:57 AM
Quote from: rlb2024 on October 04, 2018, 04:02:30 PM
Just saw a posting from Southaven officials that the I-269 ribbon-cutting will be Friday, October 26 at 10:00am.

Which end? I may try to go.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bassoon1986 on October 22, 2018, 09:44:53 PM
Quote from: US71 on October 22, 2018, 11:10:57 AM
Quote from: rlb2024 on October 04, 2018, 04:02:30 PM
Just saw a posting from Southaven officials that the I-269 ribbon-cutting will be Friday, October 26 at 10:00am.

Which end? I may try to go.

At Getwell Rd exit


iPhone
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on October 22, 2018, 09:55:07 PM
Quote from: bassoon1986 on October 22, 2018, 09:44:53 PM
Quote from: US71 on October 22, 2018, 11:10:57 AM
Quote from: rlb2024 on October 04, 2018, 04:02:30 PM
Just saw a posting from Southaven officials that the I-269 ribbon-cutting will be Friday, October 26 at 10:00am.

Which end? I may try to go.

At Getwell Rd exit



Pulling up Google maps: far out, man ;)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on October 25, 2018, 12:28:21 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 28, 2011, 01:04:49 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on October 13, 2011, 01:19:09 PM
The assumption of the Lamar Corridor Study was that I-269 would be completed by 2030 ... which certainly leaves open the possibility that I-269 could be completed well before that date.
I emailed MDOT and asked them if they had a current estimated completion date for Mississippi's part of I-269.  It looks like 2020 is the current best guess.  MDOT's response (the District 2 Engineer):

Quote
The project is broken into 4 segments. The 4th segment is currently under construction. The remaining 3 segments are anticipated to under construction in the next 2 to 4 years . The completion will be in phases ranging between 2014 to 2020. These dates are approximate due to ROW and utility constraints on the 3 segments not under construction.
As far as the signing, it will be I-269/304 for the entire corridor.

Found the above on Page 3 of this thread.  Beat it by two years...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Interstate 69 Fan on October 26, 2018, 09:57:39 AM
1 more hour  :D
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on October 26, 2018, 01:48:54 PM
It opened to traffic sometime in the last hour.  The Road closed sign in the MDOT camera looking South on I-55 at the loop to I-269 just came down with in the last hour or so. 

Watching MDOT workers pick up the orange barrels as I type  (really slow Friday at work).

Traffic is steady, but light.  None of the MDOT electronic signs are Referencing the open interstate like they were with the opening of the previous stretch of I-269, yet...

Update: "I-269 NOW OPEN TO I-55" now posted on electronic signs.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 26, 2018, 05:02:20 PM
Any trailblazer I-22 signage on I-55 (in either direction) approaching the I-269 interchange? 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on October 26, 2018, 10:56:56 PM
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181027/3ba39144b765426a1aa2e73419ffce3d.jpg)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on October 26, 2018, 11:38:39 PM
Approximately 200 people showed up for the ribbon cutting. The road itself was open just after Noon, though MDOT was still pulling down the black plastic covering the signs. Some overhead signs are still greened out, but I guess they'll fix that in a few days.

269 runs approximately 26 miles in Mississippi,  with mileposts resetting at the Tennessee State Line. 269 reverts to TN 385 just north of I-40. I'm told TNDOT has signs on order and will finish the transition sometime next year.  There is two state named shields for I-269 in Mississippi (not counting exit signs): MS 302 for NB 269, NB 269 just past 302. 269 in Mississppi is co-signed with MS 304 the entire route, ending st the state line.

For those who asked, there's no I-22 signage along I-55.



Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 27, 2018, 01:16:25 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 26, 2018, 11:38:39 PM
For those who asked, there's no I-22 signage along I-55.

Now that's just plain stupid -- considering the time & money spent on upgrading US 78 to I-22.  MSDOT will be getting a very pointed email within a few days!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on October 27, 2018, 10:01:21 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 26, 2018, 11:38:39 PM69 reverts to TN 385 just north of I-40. I'm told TNDOT has signs on order and will finish the transition sometime next year.

Has I-269 been approved for the northern segment of 385?  I thought AASHTO had only approved 269 up to I-40.

When I asked the relevant TDOT engineer about 385 last year, they were reported to be planning no changes until there's an I-69 to connect to, which seems to be many years away.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on October 27, 2018, 10:41:42 AM
Quote from: sparker on October 27, 2018, 01:16:25 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 26, 2018, 11:38:39 PM
For those who asked, there's no I-22 signage along I-55.

Now that's just plain stupid -- considering the time & money spent on upgrading US 78 to I-22.  MSDOT will be getting a very pointed email within a few days!

Agreed, in the Cincinnati area I-275 is marked with the next interstate or major highway in each direction. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Hot Rod Hootenanny on October 28, 2018, 10:59:37 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on October 27, 2018, 10:41:42 AM
Quote from: sparker on October 27, 2018, 01:16:25 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 26, 2018, 11:38:39 PM
For those who asked, there's no I-22 signage along I-55.

Now that's just plain stupid -- considering the time & money spent on upgrading US 78 to I-22.  MSDOT will be getting a very pointed email within a few days!

Agreed, in the Cincinnati area I-275 is marked with the next interstate or major highway in each direction. 

Considering what ODOT is doing to I-270, around C-bus; don't expect to see any control cities, routes, or destinations, on I-275 much longer.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: roadman65 on October 28, 2018, 11:34:39 PM
Quote from: sparker on October 27, 2018, 01:16:25 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 26, 2018, 11:38:39 PM
For those who asked, there's no I-22 signage along I-55.

Now that's just plain stupid -- considering the time & money spent on upgrading US 78 to I-22.  MSDOT will be getting a very pointed email within a few days!
INDOT does not sign I-69 from I-70 near Indy either.  Of course with I-69 soon to be on its eastern end of the 465 loop that will change, but do not count on control cities.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on October 29, 2018, 02:06:19 AM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on October 28, 2018, 10:59:37 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on October 27, 2018, 10:41:42 AM
Quote from: sparker on October 27, 2018, 01:16:25 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 26, 2018, 11:38:39 PM
For those who asked, there's no I-22 signage along I-55.

Now that's just plain stupid -- considering the time & money spent on upgrading US 78 to I-22.  MSDOT will be getting a very pointed email within a few days!

Agreed, in the Cincinnati area I-275 is marked with the next interstate or major highway in each direction. 

Considering what ODOT is doing to I-270, around C-bus; don't expect to see any control cities, routes, or destinations, on I-275 much longer.

I suppose that change will only affect the interchanges in Ohio; those in KY would stay the same?  If those follow the "next trunk Interstate junction" standard as controls, there would be the oddly ironic situation of I-71 being the control for CCW/outer I-275 at its KY junction with, well, I-71!  Somehow I doubt that's the actual case!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: mwb1848 on October 30, 2018, 03:02:51 PM
I'm sorry if I missed it, but does anybody know what control city is displayed for I-269 NORTH for drivers who are southbound on I-55 coming out of Memphis. I would hope it's Birmingham or Tupelo. But given the above discussion about the lack of I-22 trailblazers, I'm guessing it's Collierville.  :-/
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on October 30, 2018, 03:46:28 PM
Quote from: mwb1848 on October 30, 2018, 03:02:51 PM
I'm sorry if I missed it, but does anybody know what control city is displayed for I-269 NORTH for drivers who are southbound on I-55 coming out of Memphis. I would hope it's Birmingham or Tupelo. But given the above discussion about the lack of I-22 trailblazers, I'm guessing it's Collierville.  :-/

Along US 78, 269 is posted for Collierville. When I was there Friday, everything along I-55 was still greened out for 269/304.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on October 31, 2018, 01:57:21 PM
Google maps is now showing I-269 as open.

The map on my iPhone is also showing it as open.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on October 31, 2018, 06:26:49 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on October 31, 2018, 01:57:21 PM
Google maps is now showing I-269 as open.

The map on my iPhone is also showing it as open.

I contacted Google about 2 weeks ago and told them it was open (knowing it would take at least a week to fix it ;) )

I also contacted Here maps with an exit list :)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: edwaleni on November 01, 2018, 12:14:10 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 31, 2018, 06:26:49 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on October 31, 2018, 01:57:21 PM
Google maps is now showing I-269 as open.

The map on my iPhone is also showing it as open.

I contacted Google about 2 weeks ago and told them it was open (knowing it would take at least a week to fix it ;) )

I also contacted Here maps with an exit list :)

I hate to say it, but do you know how Google knows?

When Android phones start traversing the route regularly that is on a lat-long not recorded in their maps database.  Throws out an exception because people are now driving where they (Google) had no road before.

This is also how Google "knows" a road reopens.

Another way is Google Maps will throw up an alert asking if the way you traveled is open.

This happened to me during the Meramec River flooding which caused I-44 to close temporarily.  Maps still showed the road closed, but it had just been opened by MoDOT and Maps pinged me to validate that the road was in fact open. About 15m later the closed symbols on maps fell off.

The amount of data Google collects is pretty astounding, especially on road use.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on November 01, 2018, 01:12:06 AM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on October 31, 2018, 01:57:21 PM
Google maps is now showing I-269 as open.

The map on my iPhone is also showing it as open.

This is probably the last new stretch of Interstate highway to open in mid-America for a while.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ATLRedSoxFan on November 01, 2018, 03:15:57 AM
Based on the few pictures I can find, it looks like MS handled the I-22/269 interchange kinda barebones regarding lighting and signage. Wish I could find some pictures with signage besides the END/BEGIN I-22 signs. Gantries, etc.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 01, 2018, 07:18:40 AM
Quote from: MikieTimT on November 01, 2018, 01:12:06 AM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on October 31, 2018, 01:57:21 PM
Google maps is now showing I-269 as open.

The map on my iPhone is also showing it as open.

This is probably the last new stretch of Interstate highway to open in mid-America for a while.

Let's hope that statement is incorrect as regards the I-49 MO/AR Bella Vista connection -- at least in the near term.  Moving forward, there's the other MO/AR connection, I-57, and somewhat north of I-269 itself, parent I-69, or at least the portion from KY south to I-155.  Curiously, those three projects cross state lines at approximately the same basic latitude!  Other than those, pretty much everything else in the region is way down the line!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on November 01, 2018, 09:49:40 AM
Quote from: US71I also contacted Here maps with an exit list

Could you share the exit numbers you observed?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on November 01, 2018, 10:01:08 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 01, 2018, 07:18:40 AM
Quote from: MikieTimT on November 01, 2018, 01:12:06 AM
This is probably the last new stretch of Interstate highway to open in mid-America for a while.

Let's hope that statement is incorrect as regards the I-49 MO/AR Bella Vista connection -- at least in the near term.  Moving forward, there's the other MO/AR connection, I-57, and somewhat north of I-269 itself, parent I-69, or at least the portion from KY south to I-155.  Curiously, those three projects cross state lines at approximately the same basic latitude!  Other than those, pretty much everything else in the region is way down the line!

I'd like to be incorrect, but funds seem to be the sticking point for all the states involved unless one of them in particular for 2 of those roads votes next week to tax themselves like we did in a few years back.  If we can do it here given our GDP, then there's hope that others will see the light as well and invest in their infrastructure.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on November 01, 2018, 12:25:24 PM
Quote from: froggie on November 01, 2018, 09:49:40 AM
Quote from: US71I also contacted Here maps with an exit list

Could you share the exit numbers you observed?


Here we go:
Exit Numbers (Mississippi)
   
1A   I-55 South
1B   I-55 North, I-69 North
3   Getwell Rd
5   Laughter Rd
7   Craft Rd
9   MS 305
13   Red Banks Rd
16A    East I-72 , East US 78
16B   West US 78
18   MS 309
23   MS 302
26   TN State Line

Exit Numbers Reset (Tennessee)
1   US 72
2   TN 385 West
3   TN 57
11   TN 193
15   US 64
18   Donelson Farms Pkway
19A   40 East
19B   40 West
   
269 ENDS   continues as TN 385

I didn't include control cities here, but can provide what I have if needed.

Side note: Tennessee has 2/10 mile markers on 269, Mississippi doesn't.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on November 01, 2018, 01:02:23 PM
Quote from: US71 on November 01, 2018, 12:25:24 PM
Quote from: froggie on November 01, 2018, 09:49:40 AM
Quote from: US71I also contacted Here maps with an exit list

Could you share the exit numbers you observed?


Here we go:
Exit Numbers (Mississippi)

1AI-55 South
1BI-55 North, I-69 North
3Getwell Rd
5Laughter Rd
7Craft Rd
9MS 305
13Red Banks Rd
16A East I-72 , East US 78
16BWest US 78
18MS 309
23MS 302
26TN State Line

Exit Numbers Reset (Tennessee)
1US 72
2TN 385 West
3TN 57
11TN 193
15US 64
18Donelson Farms Pkway
19A40 East
19B40 West

269 ENDScontinues as TN 385

I didn't include control cities here, but can provide what I have if needed.

Side note: Tennessee has 2/10 mile markers on 269, Mississippi doesn't.
So I'm assuming the new McIngvale Rd exit will be exit 2.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 01, 2018, 08:21:13 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on November 01, 2018, 03:15:57 AM
Based on the few pictures I can find, it looks like MS handled the I-22/269 interchange kinda barebones regarding lighting and signage. Wish I could find some pictures with signage besides the END/BEGIN I-22 signs. Gantries, etc.
I can't hit on this enough. I-269 is a very nice stretch of interstate and even the pavement they used was top of the line to help with wet weather conditions. However, the I-22/I-269 is poorly done. There is no lighting. There is no signage on I-22 north bound that lets you know it's going to end. The trailblazers are normal size and it just has an end label on top. It's nothing like the large sign on I-69 going towards Tunica that says End and Begin. There was also little hope of I-22 ever picking back up, with the cloverleaf design. It's almost like getting a BMW and putting cheap wal mart tires on it. That junction has the potential gateway to lead traffic from mid America in states like Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, exc that want to travel into the southeast like Atlanta, Birmingham, exc.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on November 01, 2018, 11:29:42 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 01, 2018, 08:21:13 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on November 01, 2018, 03:15:57 AM
Based on the few pictures I can find, it looks like MS handled the I-22/269 interchange kinda barebones regarding lighting and signage. Wish I could find some pictures with signage besides the END/BEGIN I-22 signs. Gantries, etc.
I can't hit on this enough. I-269 is a very nice stretch of interstate and even the pavement they used was top of the line to help with wet weather conditions. However, the I-22/I-269 is poorly done. There is no lighting. There is no signage on I-22 north bound that lets you know it's going to end. The trailblazers are normal size and it just has an end label on top. It's nothing like the large sign on I-69 going towards Tunica that says End and Begin. There was also little hope of I-22 ever picking back up, with the cloverleaf design. It's almost like getting a BMW and putting cheap wal mart tires on it. That junction has the potential gateway to lead traffic from mid America in states like Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, exc that want to travel into the southeast like Atlanta, Birmingham, exc.

There's no End sign at all for SB 269 and just a free standing sign for NB
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1905/43773291880_98ff47ba88_z_d.jpg)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 02, 2018, 01:20:49 AM
Quote from: US71 on November 01, 2018, 11:29:42 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 01, 2018, 08:21:13 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on November 01, 2018, 03:15:57 AM
Based on the few pictures I can find, it looks like MS handled the I-22/269 interchange kinda barebones regarding lighting and signage. Wish I could find some pictures with signage besides the END/BEGIN I-22 signs. Gantries, etc.
I can't hit on this enough. I-269 is a very nice stretch of interstate and even the pavement they used was top of the line to help with wet weather conditions. However, the I-22/I-269 is poorly done. There is no lighting. There is no signage on I-22 north bound that lets you know it's going to end. The trailblazers are normal size and it just has an end label on top. It's nothing like the large sign on I-69 going towards Tunica that says End and Begin. There was also little hope of I-22 ever picking back up, with the cloverleaf design. It's almost like getting a BMW and putting cheap wal mart tires on it. That junction has the potential gateway to lead traffic from mid America in states like Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, exc that want to travel into the southeast like Atlanta, Birmingham, exc.

There's no End sign at all for SB 269 and just a free standing sign for NB
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1905/43773291880_98ff47ba88_z_d.jpg)

So -- where exactly is the sign assembly in the picture above located?  (I'd venture a guess that it's just to the north [west] of the I-40 interchange, where the official I-269 designation is supposed to end)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 02, 2018, 08:00:09 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 02, 2018, 01:20:49 AM
Quote from: US71 on November 01, 2018, 11:29:42 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 01, 2018, 08:21:13 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on November 01, 2018, 03:15:57 AM
Based on the few pictures I can find, it looks like MS handled the I-22/269 interchange kinda barebones regarding lighting and signage. Wish I could find some pictures with signage besides the END/BEGIN I-22 signs. Gantries, etc.
I can't hit on this enough. I-269 is a very nice stretch of interstate and even the pavement they used was top of the line to help with wet weather conditions. However, the I-22/I-269 is poorly done. There is no lighting. There is no signage on I-22 north bound that lets you know it's going to end. The trailblazers are normal size and it just has an end label on top. It's nothing like the large sign on I-69 going towards Tunica that says End and Begin. There was also little hope of I-22 ever picking back up, with the cloverleaf design. It's almost like getting a BMW and putting cheap wal mart tires on it. That junction has the potential gateway to lead traffic from mid America in states like Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, exc that want to travel into the southeast like Atlanta, Birmingham, exc.

There's no End sign at all for SB 269 and just a free standing sign for NB
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1905/43773291880_98ff47ba88_z_d.jpg)

So -- where exactly is the sign assembly in the picture above located?  (I'd venture a guess that it's just to the north [west] of the I-40 interchange, where the official I-269 designation is supposed to end)

Shouldn't the "END" and "BEGIN"  signs be above the route numbers?

It might not be a requirement, but it would look better.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on November 02, 2018, 11:09:19 AM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on November 02, 2018, 08:00:09 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 02, 2018, 01:20:49 AM
Quote from: US71 on November 01, 2018, 11:29:42 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 01, 2018, 08:21:13 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on November 01, 2018, 03:15:57 AM
Based on the few pictures I can find, it looks like MS handled the I-22/269 interchange kinda barebones regarding lighting and signage. Wish I could find some pictures with signage besides the END/BEGIN I-22 signs. Gantries, etc.
I can't hit on this enough. I-269 is a very nice stretch of interstate and even the pavement they used was top of the line to help with wet weather conditions. However, the I-22/I-269 is poorly done. There is no lighting. There is no signage on I-22 north bound that lets you know it's going to end. The trailblazers are normal size and it just has an end label on top. It's nothing like the large sign on I-69 going towards Tunica that says End and Begin. There was also little hope of I-22 ever picking back up, with the cloverleaf design. It's almost like getting a BMW and putting cheap wal mart tires on it. That junction has the potential gateway to lead traffic from mid America in states like Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, exc that want to travel into the southeast like Atlanta, Birmingham, exc.

There's no End sign at all for SB 269 and just a free standing sign for NB
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1905/43773291880_98ff47ba88_z_d.jpg)

So -- where exactly is the sign assembly in the picture above located?  (I'd venture a guess that it's just to the north [west] of the I-40 interchange, where the official I-269 designation is supposed to end)

Shouldn't the "END" and "BEGIN"  signs be above the route numbers?

It might not be a requirement, but it would look better.

(https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7211/7137430097_6d51b27583_z_d.jpg)
(2012)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on November 02, 2018, 11:22:13 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 02, 2018, 01:20:49 AM
Quote from: US71 on November 01, 2018, 11:29:42 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 01, 2018, 08:21:13 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on November 01, 2018, 03:15:57 AM
Based on the few pictures I can find, it looks like MS handled the I-22/269 interchange kinda barebones regarding lighting and signage. Wish I could find some pictures with signage besides the END/BEGIN I-22 signs. Gantries, etc.
I can't hit on this enough. I-269 is a very nice stretch of interstate and even the pavement they used was top of the line to help with wet weather conditions. However, the I-22/I-269 is poorly done. There is no lighting. There is no signage on I-22 north bound that lets you know it's going to end. The trailblazers are normal size and it just has an end label on top. It's nothing like the large sign on I-69 going towards Tunica that says End and Begin. There was also little hope of I-22 ever picking back up, with the cloverleaf design. It's almost like getting a BMW and putting cheap wal mart tires on it. That junction has the potential gateway to lead traffic from mid America in states like Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, exc that want to travel into the southeast like Atlanta, Birmingham, exc.

There's no End sign at all for SB 269 and just a free standing sign for NB
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1905/43773291880_98ff47ba88_z_d.jpg)

So -- where exactly is the sign assembly in the picture above located?  (I'd venture a guess that it's just to the north [west] of the I-40 interchange, where the official I-269 designation is supposed to end)


Just north of I-40
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 02, 2018, 11:48:56 AM
Quote from: US71 on November 02, 2018, 11:09:19 AM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on November 02, 2018, 08:00:09 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 02, 2018, 01:20:49 AM
Quote from: US71 on November 01, 2018, 11:29:42 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 01, 2018, 08:21:13 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on November 01, 2018, 03:15:57 AM
Based on the few pictures I can find, it looks like MS handled the I-22/269 interchange kinda barebones regarding lighting and signage. Wish I could find some pictures with signage besides the END/BEGIN I-22 signs. Gantries, etc.
I can't hit on this enough. I-269 is a very nice stretch of interstate and even the pavement they used was top of the line to help with wet weather conditions. However, the I-22/I-269 is poorly done. There is no lighting. There is no signage on I-22 north bound that lets you know it's going to end. The trailblazers are normal size and it just has an end label on top. It's nothing like the large sign on I-69 going towards Tunica that says End and Begin. There was also little hope of I-22 ever picking back up, with the cloverleaf design. It's almost like getting a BMW and putting cheap wal mart tires on it. That junction has the potential gateway to lead traffic from mid America in states like Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, exc that want to travel into the southeast like Atlanta, Birmingham, exc.

There's no End sign at all for SB 269 and just a free standing sign for NB
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1905/43773291880_98ff47ba88_z_d.jpg)

So -- where exactly is the sign assembly in the picture above located?  (I'd venture a guess that it's just to the north [west] of the I-40 interchange, where the official I-269 designation is supposed to end)

Shouldn't the "END" and "BEGIN"  signs be above the route numbers?

It might not be a requirement, but it would look better.

(https://c2.staticflickr.com/8/7211/7137430097_6d51b27583_z_d.jpg)
(2012)

They forgot the "Burma-Shave" at the end.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 02, 2018, 12:00:27 PM
^^^^^^^^^
Looks like that "sign salad" got stuck on one tine of the fork!  Or, alternately: sign kabob! :D
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jhuntin1 on November 04, 2018, 09:40:49 AM
Quote from: roadman65 on October 28, 2018, 11:34:39 PM
Quote from: sparker on October 27, 2018, 01:16:25 AM
Quote from: US71 on October 26, 2018, 11:38:39 PM
For those who asked, there's no I-22 signage along I-55.

Now that's just plain stupid -- considering the time & money spent on upgrading US 78 to I-22.  MSDOT will be getting a very pointed email within a few days!
INDOT does not sign I-69 from I-70 near Indy either.  Of course with I-69 soon to be on its eastern end of the 465 loop that will change, but do not count on control cities.

I believe that control cities on beltways are now required when running concurrently with another interstate, but not until new signage is posted. With all the work on I-465 that has been done in the last few years, all the new signage lists Cincinnati and Peoria as control cities on the stretch concurrent with I-74. I'm guessing when I-69 is finished and running along 465 that they'll be required to post control cities for it as well.

I've never seen "TO route" posted very consistently in all my travels. A shame, but each state's DOT must decide and they're not at all consistent as we know.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Revive 755 on November 04, 2018, 11:18:04 AM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on November 02, 2018, 08:00:09 AM
Shouldn't the "END" and "BEGIN"  signs be above the route numbers?

It might not be a requirement, but it would look better.

The MUTCD does require the "END" sign to be above the route number.

Quote from: MUTCD 2D.22 Paragraph 02If used, the END auxiliary sign shall be mounted either directly above a route sign or above a sign for an alternative route that is part of the designation of the route being terminated.

The MUTCD also requires the "BEGIN" sign to be above the route shield.

Quote from: MUTCD 2D.23 Paragraph 02If used, the BEGIN auxiliary sign shall be mounted at the top of the first Confirming assembly (see Section 2D.34) for the route that is beginning.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: edwaleni on November 04, 2018, 03:16:01 PM
Quote from: US71 on November 02, 2018, 11:22:13 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 02, 2018, 01:20:49 AM
Quote from: US71 on November 01, 2018, 11:29:42 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 01, 2018, 08:21:13 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on November 01, 2018, 03:15:57 AM
Based on the few pictures I can find, it looks like MS handled the I-22/269 interchange kinda barebones regarding lighting and signage. Wish I could find some pictures with signage besides the END/BEGIN I-22 signs. Gantries, etc.
I can't hit on this enough. I-269 is a very nice stretch of interstate and even the pavement they used was top of the line to help with wet weather conditions. However, the I-22/I-269 is poorly done. There is no lighting. There is no signage on I-22 north bound that lets you know it's going to end. The trailblazers are normal size and it just has an end label on top. It's nothing like the large sign on I-69 going towards Tunica that says End and Begin. There was also little hope of I-22 ever picking back up, with the cloverleaf design. It's almost like getting a BMW and putting cheap wal mart tires on it. That junction has the potential gateway to lead traffic from mid America in states like Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, exc that want to travel into the southeast like Atlanta, Birmingham, exc.

There's no End sign at all for SB 269 and just a free standing sign for NB
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1905/43773291880_98ff47ba88_z_d.jpg)

So -- where exactly is the sign assembly in the picture above located?  (I'd venture a guess that it's just to the north [west] of the I-40 interchange, where the official I-269 designation is supposed to end)


Just north of I-40

Oh yeah, that's not confusing.....

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1952/30779239317_71a53f2098_z.jpg)

then this....

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4895/45719858511_387e4e78f6_z.jpg)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 04, 2018, 11:28:48 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on November 04, 2018, 03:16:01 PM
Quote from: US71 on November 02, 2018, 11:22:13 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 02, 2018, 01:20:49 AM
Quote from: US71 on November 01, 2018, 11:29:42 PM
Quote from: jamierazorback on November 01, 2018, 08:21:13 PM
Quote from: ATLRedSoxFan on November 01, 2018, 03:15:57 AM
Based on the few pictures I can find, it looks like MS handled the I-22/269 interchange kinda barebones regarding lighting and signage. Wish I could find some pictures with signage besides the END/BEGIN I-22 signs. Gantries, etc.
I can't hit on this enough. I-269 is a very nice stretch of interstate and even the pavement they used was top of the line to help with wet weather conditions. However, the I-22/I-269 is poorly done. There is no lighting. There is no signage on I-22 north bound that lets you know it's going to end. The trailblazers are normal size and it just has an end label on top. It's nothing like the large sign on I-69 going towards Tunica that says End and Begin. There was also little hope of I-22 ever picking back up, with the cloverleaf design. It's almost like getting a BMW and putting cheap wal mart tires on it. That junction has the potential gateway to lead traffic from mid America in states like Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, exc that want to travel into the southeast like Atlanta, Birmingham, exc.

There's no End sign at all for SB 269 and just a free standing sign for NB
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/2/1905/43773291880_98ff47ba88_z_d.jpg)

So -- where exactly is the sign assembly in the picture above located?  (I'd venture a guess that it's just to the north [west] of the I-40 interchange, where the official I-269 designation is supposed to end)


Just north of I-40

Oh yeah, that's not confusing.....

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1952/30779239317_71a53f2098_z.jpg)

then this....

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4895/45719858511_387e4e78f6_z.jpg)

I understand TDOT not wanting to change over the entire road until I-69 gets built from I-40 to Millington. Yet, they should assign that roadway another name all together. The mile marker confusion plus 385 in Southeast Memphis will always be SR 385. It's going to confuse non locals for sure. It's a typical West Tennessee TDOT mess.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 05, 2018, 01:28:42 AM
^^^^^^^^
The fact that TNDOT has no intention of co-signing TN 385 over the N-S I-269 segment certainly creates a navigational mess for local drivers; one of the two remaining TN 385 segments -- preferably the less-utilized north segment -- should get a new state highway number.  Logically, it would be TN 269 until such time as I-69 is constructed -- but that might be expecting too much of the agency to make that change.  An open question to local posters:  are TN state highway numbers legislatively designated (like here in CA) or are they administratively selected within TNDOT? 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on November 05, 2018, 09:07:53 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 05, 2018, 01:28:42 AMThe fact that TNDOT has no intention of co-signing TN 385 over the N-S I-269 segment certainly creates a navigational mess for local drivers; one of the two remaining TN 385 segments -- preferably the less-utilized north segment -- should get a new state highway number.

Or the southern TN 385 could just be renumbered as I-22.  :)

Seriously, though, I'm skeptical about 269/385 being a navigational mess on two or three counts:

First:  it's Memphis, where major streets have a tendency to change names seemingly at random.

Second: in local media, the southern 385 has been referred to by name rather than by number, to avoid questions about which segment of 385 is being discussed.

Third: don't most people rely on sat nav apps these days when navigating to unfamiliar destinations, reducing highway numbers / street names to being mostly just visual cues on exactly where to turn?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 05, 2018, 01:22:50 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on November 05, 2018, 09:07:53 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 05, 2018, 01:28:42 AMThe fact that TNDOT has no intention of co-signing TN 385 over the N-S I-269 segment certainly creates a navigational mess for local drivers; one of the two remaining TN 385 segments -- preferably the less-utilized north segment -- should get a new state highway number.

Or the southern TN 385 could just be renumbered as I-22.  :)

Seriously, though, I'm skeptical about 269/385 being a navigational mess on two or three counts:

First:  it's Memphis, where major streets have a tendency to change names seemingly at random.

Second: in local media, the southern 385 has been referred to by name rather than by number, to avoid questions about which segment of 385 is being discussed.

Third: don't most people rely on sat nav apps these days when navigating to unfamiliar destinations, reducing highway numbers / street names to being mostly just visual cues on exactly where to turn?

It might not be a navigational mess for local drivers accustomed to local vagaries or departures from norms seen elsewhere -- but to "newbies" or those simply attempting to navigate the area while visiting the presence of two segments, east delineating a E-W freeway, bearing the same number might become confusing.  And that isn't a condition that would likely be programmed in apps;  distinguishing the "north" section of 385 from the "south" section would likely throw such into a bit of a tizzy if not pre-programmed to recognize landmarks or mileposts or interchanges from one another. 

While I like the idea of the southern (Collierville) segment of 385 becoming a I-22 extension -- the lack of a direct SB>EB flyover ramp at the 22/269 interchange is a negating circumstance (nobody needs a duplicate of the I-80/I-74 cloverleaf in IL, with two trunk routes schlepping through a low-speed single-lane loop).  But then TN has built both of its freeway-to-freeway junctions (save the I-69/MS 304 separation east of Tunica) as cloverleaves -- so "cheaping out" (although the 22/269 involves 4 individual bridge structures to accommodate the C/D lanes) seems to be a state or regional priority, likely because of funding shortfalls. 

Even out here in tech-happy San Jose, only a handful of people I know regularly depend upon phone-based or in-car navigational aids to get around; and those that do simply locate addresses and use their personal built-in systems (i.e., their brains) to figure out how to get from point "A" to point "B".  Ironically, a couple of apps haven't figured out (or have been programmed to recognize) that there's no direct access from CA 87 to I-880 (it crosses, so therefore it must have an interchange!?), to the surprise of folks coming in from elsewhere (including a number of my customers, who would access my business from CA 87).  So, for many, it's back to AAA maps and a decent learning curve!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: jamierazorback on November 05, 2018, 08:16:57 PM
Quote from: sparker on November 05, 2018, 01:22:50 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on November 05, 2018, 09:07:53 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 05, 2018, 01:28:42 AMThe fact that TNDOT has no intention of co-signing TN 385 over the N-S I-269 segment certainly creates a navigational mess for local drivers; one of the two remaining TN 385 segments -- preferably the less-utilized north segment -- should get a new state highway number.

Or the southern TN 385 could just be renumbered as I-22.  :)

Seriously, though, I'm skeptical about 269/385 being a navigational mess on two or three counts:

First:  it's Memphis, where major streets have a tendency to change names seemingly at random.

Second: in local media, the southern 385 has been referred to by name rather than by number, to avoid questions about which segment of 385 is being discussed.

Third: don't most people rely on sat nav apps these days when navigating to unfamiliar destinations, reducing highway numbers / street names to being mostly just visual cues on exactly where to turn?

It might not be a navigational mess for local drivers accustomed to local vagaries or departures from norms seen elsewhere -- but to "newbies" or those simply attempting to navigate the area while visiting the presence of two segments, east delineating a E-W freeway, bearing the same number might become confusing.  And that isn't a condition that would likely be programmed in apps;  distinguishing the "north" section of 385 from the "south" section would likely throw such into a bit of a tizzy if not pre-programmed to recognize landmarks or mileposts or interchanges from one another. 

While I like the idea of the southern (Collierville) segment of 385 becoming a I-22 extension -- the lack of a direct SB>EB flyover ramp at the 22/269 interchange is a negating circumstance (nobody needs a duplicate of the I-80/I-74 cloverleaf in IL, with two trunk routes schlepping through a low-speed single-lane loop).  But then TN has built both of its freeway-to-freeway junctions (save the I-69/MS 304 separation east of Tunica) as cloverleaves -- so "cheaping out" (although the 22/269 involves 4 individual bridge structures to accommodate the C/D lanes) seems to be a state or regional priority, likely because of funding shortfalls. 

Even out here in tech-happy San Jose, only a handful of people I know regularly depend upon phone-based or in-car navigational aids to get around; and those that do simply locate addresses and use their personal built-in systems (i.e., their brains) to figure out how to get from point "A" to point "B".  Ironically, a couple of apps haven't figured out (or have been programmed to recognize) that there's no direct access from CA 87 to I-880 (it crosses, so therefore it must have an interchange!?), to the surprise of folks coming in from elsewhere (including a number of my customers, who would access my business from CA 87).  So, for many, it's back to AAA maps and a decent learning curve!
Bingo. Imagine you just moved to the Memphis area. Someone says go to 385 and....... Well most people in Memphis that I know of thinks 385 as Bill Morris Parkway. The southern route of 385. If you want to keep the northern segment posted as 385, they should remark the mileage markers with that of I-269 and future I-269. Maybe even put exit numbers on the signs they have. It would be easy for the transition this way, when it officially becomes I-269. It looks like it will be decades though before I-69 construction ever begins between Millington and Dyersburg. I know there is a strong political effort by Millington and Northern Shelby county to have I-69 built between downtown Memphis and Millington. I doubt we see that anytime soon. The logical alternative would be to just rename the road. That being said, TDOT already went the cheap way with exit signage on I-269. On top of it, I don't think TDOT has officially renamed the road, despite signage. They might have and I might have missed it.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: edwaleni on November 05, 2018, 10:07:20 PM
Quote from: sparker on November 05, 2018, 01:22:50 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on November 05, 2018, 09:07:53 AM
Quote from: sparker on November 05, 2018, 01:28:42 AMThe fact that TNDOT has no intention of co-signing TN 385 over the N-S I-269 segment certainly creates a navigational mess for local drivers; one of the two remaining TN 385 segments -- preferably the less-utilized north segment -- should get a new state highway number.

Or the southern TN 385 could just be renumbered as I-22.  :)

Seriously, though, I'm skeptical about 269/385 being a navigational mess on two or three counts:

First:  it's Memphis, where major streets have a tendency to change names seemingly at random.

Second: in local media, the southern 385 has been referred to by name rather than by number, to avoid questions about which segment of 385 is being discussed.

Third: don't most people rely on sat nav apps these days when navigating to unfamiliar destinations, reducing highway numbers / street names to being mostly just visual cues on exactly where to turn?

It might not be a navigational mess for local drivers accustomed to local vagaries or departures from norms seen elsewhere -- but to "newbies" or those simply attempting to navigate the area while visiting the presence of two segments, east delineating a E-W freeway, bearing the same number might become confusing.  And that isn't a condition that would likely be programmed in apps;  distinguishing the "north" section of 385 from the "south" section would likely throw such into a bit of a tizzy if not pre-programmed to recognize landmarks or mileposts or interchanges from one another. 

While I like the idea of the southern (Collierville) segment of 385 becoming a I-22 extension -- the lack of a direct SB>EB flyover ramp at the 22/269 interchange is a negating circumstance (nobody needs a duplicate of the I-80/I-74 cloverleaf in IL, with two trunk routes schlepping through a low-speed single-lane loop).  But then TN has built both of its freeway-to-freeway junctions (save the I-69/MS 304 separation east of Tunica) as cloverleaves -- so "cheaping out" (although the 22/269 involves 4 individual bridge structures to accommodate the C/D lanes) seems to be a state or regional priority, likely because of funding shortfalls. 

Even out here in tech-happy San Jose, only a handful of people I know regularly depend upon phone-based or in-car navigational aids to get around; and those that do simply locate addresses and use their personal built-in systems (i.e., their brains) to figure out how to get from point "A" to point "B".  Ironically, a couple of apps haven't figured out (or have been programmed to recognize) that there's no direct access from CA 87 to I-880 (it crosses, so therefore it must have an interchange!?), to the surprise of folks coming in from elsewhere (including a number of my customers, who would access my business from CA 87).  So, for many, it's back to AAA maps and a decent learning curve!

Not to get off the rails, but GPS in the San Jose/San Fran valley has burned me so much, I check the routes on paper before even attempting. The night I got dragged through a SFO city street and over a hill just to find SFO had allowed someone to build at the far end (creating a dead end) without so much as a warning sign.  I had to back out (couldn't turn around) up and over a hill to get back to a "normal" street.  Rant over.

I assume TDOT doesn't want to change the signs over until there are actual control cities (like Millington) to direct people too. Expecting TDOT to say anything about I-22 anywhere, when MDOT can barely sign it themselves is probably asking too much.

I agree, it will be 10-15 years before any changes take place.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on November 06, 2018, 08:17:18 AM
you guys make it seem like TDOT hates memphis
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on November 06, 2018, 08:33:11 AM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 06, 2018, 08:17:18 AM
you guys make it seem like TDOT hates memphis

The State of Tennessee has always been a little reluctant to admit the City of Memphis even exists....

Once upon a time, Tennessee's license plate numbers began with a one- or two-digit county code representing the rank-order of the county of registration by population size.

I swear that Tennessee changed that simply because the powers-that-be got tired of Davidson County being number two.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on November 06, 2018, 09:24:16 AM
INDOT does the same thing with Evansville, they like to pretend it's in Kentucky.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: edwaleni on November 07, 2018, 12:35:51 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 06, 2018, 09:24:16 AM
INDOT does the same thing with Evansville, they like to pretend it's in Kentucky.

Technically, when you stick your toes in the Ohio River, you are.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Life in Paradise on November 24, 2018, 01:45:24 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on November 07, 2018, 12:35:51 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 06, 2018, 09:24:16 AM
INDOT does the same thing with Evansville, they like to pretend it's in Kentucky.

Technically, when you stick your toes in the Ohio River, you are.
Well, if you take US41 south you're in Kentucky before you cross the river.  It has also been said that we have a bit of a "twang", although I have no idea what you'll are talkin about.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on November 25, 2018, 07:55:29 PM
I loved the new opened stretch of 269. Saved me about 25 minutes as opposed to going through 302, through Southhaven. Hopefully some truck stops and restaurants get built at the Getwell road interchange. I was amazed that a lot of truckers are using that route...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on November 25, 2018, 09:00:16 PM
^^^^^^^^
Unlike the general public, truckers have a vested economic interest in discerning and locating improved ways to get from point "A" to point "B" regardless of posted "trailblazer" indicators.  They would have discovered I-269 as the most efficient way from metro Memphis to I-22 on their own -- but for the average non-pro driver -- particularly those not intimately familiar with the area, some sort of announcement along I-55 mentioning that I-22 can be accessed via I-269 would be helpful for general navigational purposes. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on November 25, 2018, 09:58:34 PM
Honestly. I think it will help rush hour traffic along 240 and traffic in general in the Memphis area. As a Atlanta resident another outer bypass even if it's 4-6 lanes would help a lot, especially with the truck traffic
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: edwaleni on November 25, 2018, 11:29:29 PM
Quote from: Life in Paradise on November 24, 2018, 01:45:24 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on November 07, 2018, 12:35:51 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 06, 2018, 09:24:16 AM
INDOT does the same thing with Evansville, they like to pretend it's in Kentucky.

Technically, when you stick your toes in the Ohio River, you are.
Well, if you take US41 south you're in Kentucky before you cross the river.  It has also been said that we have a bit of a "twang", although I have no idea what you'll are talkin about.

The Kentucky state line comes right up to the Indiana shore line, in Illinois as well.  Hence you could walk down to the riverfront, stick your toes in the water and be in Kentucky.

Back in the 1970's Kentucky DNR rangers used to come out in their boats and cite Indiana and Illinois fishermen for not having a proper license for Kentucky. Before that they never enforced their border and everyone used to stay on "their side" of the river to fish. After they started citing Ohio river fishermen a little civil war broke out between the DNR's for the 3 states.

This is also why Kentucky is the lead agency on so many Ohio River bridges. They choose to assert their borders, so they gotta pay to support them.

That is why I made the remark.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MantyMadTown on November 26, 2018, 12:51:20 AM
Quote from: edwaleni on November 25, 2018, 11:29:29 PM
Quote from: Life in Paradise on November 24, 2018, 01:45:24 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on November 07, 2018, 12:35:51 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 06, 2018, 09:24:16 AM
INDOT does the same thing with Evansville, they like to pretend it's in Kentucky.

Technically, when you stick your toes in the Ohio River, you are.
Well, if you take US41 south you're in Kentucky before you cross the river.  It has also been said that we have a bit of a "twang", although I have no idea what you'll are talkin about.

The Kentucky state line comes right up to the Indiana shore line, in Illinois as well.  Hence you could walk down to the riverfront, stick your toes in the water and be in Kentucky.

Back in the 1970's Kentucky DNR rangers used to come out in their boats and cite Indiana and Illinois fishermen for not having a proper license for Kentucky. Before that they never enforced their border and everyone used to stay on "their side" of the river to fish. After they started citing Ohio river fishermen a little civil war broke out between the DNR's for the 3 states.

This is also why Kentucky is the lead agency on so many Ohio River bridges. They choose to assert their borders, so they gotta pay to support them.

That is why I made the remark.

Why do they get to claim all of the Ohio River? It would really do good for the bordering states if they just bisected the river as Kentucky can't really build anything on the other side of the Ohio.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on November 26, 2018, 12:59:26 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on November 25, 2018, 09:58:34 PM
Honestly. I think it will help rush hour traffic along 240 and traffic in general in the Memphis area. As a Atlanta resident another outer bypass even if it's 4-6 lanes would help a lot, especially with the truck traffic
Agree fully. I-240 between I-55 and SR 385 could use the traffic relief (however large or small) especially with current and future improvements like Memfix 4 and the Airways Blvd interchange. Hopefully TDOT will soon consider widening 240 between 55 and Airways as well because it is sorely needed. However, given TDOT's usual snubbing of Memphis with important projects I doubt anything major will happen soon.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on November 26, 2018, 09:47:18 AM
Quote from: MantyMadTown on November 26, 2018, 12:51:20 AM
Quote from: edwaleni on November 25, 2018, 11:29:29 PM
Quote from: Life in Paradise on November 24, 2018, 01:45:24 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on November 07, 2018, 12:35:51 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 06, 2018, 09:24:16 AM
INDOT does the same thing with Evansville, they like to pretend it's in Kentucky.

Technically, when you stick your toes in the Ohio River, you are.
Well, if you take US41 south you're in Kentucky before you cross the river.  It has also been said that we have a bit of a "twang", although I have no idea what you'll are talkin about.

The Kentucky state line comes right up to the Indiana shore line, in Illinois as well.  Hence you could walk down to the riverfront, stick your toes in the water and be in Kentucky.

Back in the 1970's Kentucky DNR rangers used to come out in their boats and cite Indiana and Illinois fishermen for not having a proper license for Kentucky. Before that they never enforced their border and everyone used to stay on "their side" of the river to fish. After they started citing Ohio river fishermen a little civil war broke out between the DNR's for the 3 states.

This is also why Kentucky is the lead agency on so many Ohio River bridges. They choose to assert their borders, so they gotta pay to support them.

That is why I made the remark.

Why do they get to claim all of the Ohio River? It would really do good for the bordering states if they just bisected the river as Kentucky can't really build anything on the other side of the Ohio.

it's stupid, but it goes all the way back to the old Northwest Territory.  Never changed.  Unrelated, but Indiana really fucked up their border with lake michigan. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on November 26, 2018, 10:03:59 AM
Quote from: TomahawkinHonestly. I think it will help rush hour traffic along 240 and traffic in general in the Memphis area. As a Atlanta resident another outer bypass even if it's 4-6 lanes would help a lot, especially with the truck traffic

I actually doubt this.  There isn't much through traffic on that leg of 240 to begin with, let alone through traffic that would find 269 viable.  269 is likely getting trucks right away because of the huge Norfolk Southern intermodal facility recently built between Collierville and Rossville.

Most of the through truck traffic is due north-south (55) or due east-west (40).  269 is not really going to help either of those flows.  Only way for that to work would be to get 269 across the river in some fashion.

Nevermind that, due to the nature of urban areas and urban traffic, whatever does get diverted from 240 will get filled back in fairly quickly with local traffic.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: edwaleni on November 26, 2018, 01:18:25 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 26, 2018, 09:47:18 AM
Quote from: MantyMadTown on November 26, 2018, 12:51:20 AM
Quote from: edwaleni on November 25, 2018, 11:29:29 PM
Quote from: Life in Paradise on November 24, 2018, 01:45:24 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on November 07, 2018, 12:35:51 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 06, 2018, 09:24:16 AM
INDOT does the same thing with Evansville, they like to pretend it's in Kentucky.

Technically, when you stick your toes in the Ohio River, you are.
Well, if you take US41 south you're in Kentucky before you cross the river.  It has also been said that we have a bit of a "twang", although I have no idea what you'll are talkin about.

The Kentucky state line comes right up to the Indiana shore line, in Illinois as well.  Hence you could walk down to the riverfront, stick your toes in the water and be in Kentucky.

Back in the 1970's Kentucky DNR rangers used to come out in their boats and cite Indiana and Illinois fishermen for not having a proper license for Kentucky. Before that they never enforced their border and everyone used to stay on "their side" of the river to fish. After they started citing Ohio river fishermen a little civil war broke out between the DNR's for the 3 states.

This is also why Kentucky is the lead agency on so many Ohio River bridges. They choose to assert their borders, so they gotta pay to support them.

That is why I made the remark.

Why do they get to claim all of the Ohio River? It would really do good for the bordering states if they just bisected the river as Kentucky can't really build anything on the other side of the Ohio.

it's stupid, but it goes all the way back to the old Northwest Territory.  Never changed.  Unrelated, but Indiana really fucked up their border with lake michigan.

Indiana has its war stories too. Fisherman off Calumet Park in Chicago used to run afoul of Indiana DNR because Chicago filled the lake right up to the state line.

Meanwhile back to I-269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on November 26, 2018, 03:45:41 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 26, 2018, 09:47:18 AM
Quote from: MantyMadTown on November 26, 2018, 12:51:20 AM
Quote from: edwaleni on November 25, 2018, 11:29:29 PM
Quote from: Life in Paradise on November 24, 2018, 01:45:24 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on November 07, 2018, 12:35:51 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on November 06, 2018, 09:24:16 AM
INDOT does the same thing with Evansville, they like to pretend it's in Kentucky.

Technically, when you stick your toes in the Ohio River, you are.
Well, if you take US41 south you're in Kentucky before you cross the river.  It has also been said that we have a bit of a "twang", although I have no idea what you'll are talkin about.

The Kentucky state line comes right up to the Indiana shore line, in Illinois as well.  Hence you could walk down to the riverfront, stick your toes in the water and be in Kentucky.

Back in the 1970's Kentucky DNR rangers used to come out in their boats and cite Indiana and Illinois fishermen for not having a proper license for Kentucky. Before that they never enforced their border and everyone used to stay on "their side" of the river to fish. After they started citing Ohio river fishermen a little civil war broke out between the DNR's for the 3 states.

This is also why Kentucky is the lead agency on so many Ohio River bridges. They choose to assert their borders, so they gotta pay to support them.

That is why I made the remark.

Why do they get to claim all of the Ohio River? It would really do good for the bordering states if they just bisected the river as Kentucky can't really build anything on the other side of the Ohio.

it's stupid, but it goes all the way back to the old Northwest Territory.  Never changed.  Unrelated, but Indiana really fucked up their border with lake michigan.

Exactly.  Virginia claimed the Ohio River to the Low water mark on the opposite bank.  Kentucky and West Virginia each inherited that claim when they became states.  The Confederation Congress accepted that initial claim When the Northwest Territory was created. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: wdcrft63 on November 26, 2018, 06:42:57 PM
Virginia had experience with this sort of thing: when the initial royal grant was made that established Maryland as a colony separate from Virginia, Maryland got all of the Potomac River up to the high tide line on the Virginia side. The modern consequence is that Maryland gets to pay almost entirely for upgrading the US 301 bridge over the river.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on November 27, 2018, 03:31:32 AM
Drove 269 again to day at Rush hour. Loved it. A lot more small truck contractors use this route than most think. I had to take 302 from 55 to Getwell rd. Then due south to 269. A lot of suburban home sprawl on Getwell. I 55 south from 302 on south for another 10 miles was a 2 lane parking lot. That section of 55 should have been made 8 lanes 10+ years ago. I feel for anyone who lives in the Tunica area who has to commute to The M (Memphis)
Title: I-269 Completed - Did everyone miss this?
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 11, 2019, 11:27:43 PM
I though the segment of I-269 between I-55 and I-22 South of Memphis was still under construction. It turns out that segment opened late last October. Did anyone else post a discussion thread about that a couple months ago? I feel like I missed something.

I wound up finding out about the completion of I-269 by talking to my brother about a road trip from Colorado down to South Georgia. He's taking a Southern route to avoid a whole lot of snow on I-70. His GPS probably would have had him take I-40 clear to Nashville, but I-22 would be faster. I figured he would have to endure all the stupid traffic signals on Lamar Ave from I-240 down until the road turns into a freeway. But now he can get on I-55 and take it South to I-269 to avoid all that mess.
Title: Re: I-269 Completed - Did everyone miss this?
Post by: MikeTheActuary on January 12, 2019, 01:02:53 AM
If you scroll down a little further in the Mid South forum threads, you'll find an I-269 thread.  The opening of the last segment is announced in reply #754 there.  :)
Title: Re: I-269 Completed - Did everyone miss this?
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 12, 2019, 11:14:52 AM
It was way down there. Freaking over-looked it.
Title: Re: I-269 Completed - Did everyone miss this?
Post by: Tomahawkin on January 12, 2019, 12:29:07 PM
Drove it from 55 to interstate 22. Loved it. I was amazed that there was more traffic on it than I thought there would be. Only problem is that getting to 269 via IH 55 Is a ##### because 55 south of 302 in Southhaven needs to be widened from 4 to 10 lanes (combined) its a nasty bottleneck for about 5 miles
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on January 13, 2019, 02:04:37 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on January 12, 2019, 12:29:07 PM
Drove it from 55 to interstate 22. Loved it. I was amazed that there was more traffic on it than I thought there would be. Only problem is that getting to 269 via IH 55 Is a ##### because 55 south of 302 in Southhaven needs to be widened from 4 to 10 lanes (combined) its a nasty bottleneck for about 5 miles

At this point any further freeway development/expansion in MS is likely to be long-term prospects; according to most accounts, they "blew their wad", budget-wise, with I-269 and the upgrades to US 78 in order to get I-22.  Unless an infusion of funds is forthcoming -- one shouldn't anticipate any significant projects to pop up in the near term outside of maintenance and necessary rebuilds on the existing state system (in-state politically motivated projects notwithstanding!).   
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 13, 2019, 02:11:39 PM
I-55 needs some serious work in Memphis and South of Memphis. The I-55 Mississippi River bridge is a narrow, 4-lane, outdated contraption of a bottleneck. The cloverleaf interchange with Crump Blvd is another bottleneck. I-55 is 3 lanes in each direction South of there, but it really should be four or five lanes in each direction. Parts of the I-55/I-69 multiplex South of I-240 go as wide as 5 lanes in each direction, but a bunch still ranges from 2, 3 and 4 lanes.

This situation is another reason why a new Mississippi River bridge is needed near Tunica at the end of MS-304. I-22 could be extended along that into Arkansas and up to I-40. Best case scenario would be a big I-269 loop going all the way around the greater Memphis area. Unfortunately there's not piles of billions of dollars just laying around to build all these bridges and there's little in the way of federal help and oversight for this situation. The 3 states involved (TN, MS & AR) are left to go it alone. The two existing crossings in Memphis for I-40 and I-55 both need to be replaced with higher capacity structures.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on January 13, 2019, 02:26:13 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on January 13, 2019, 02:11:39 PM
I-55 needs some serious work in Memphis and South of Memphis. The I-55 Mississippi River bridge is a narrow, 4-lane, outdated contraption of a bottleneck. The cloverleaf interchange with Crump Blvd is another bottleneck. I-55 is 3 lanes in each direction South of there, but it really should be four or five lanes in each direction. Parts of the I-55/I-69 multiplex South of I-240 go as wide as 5 lanes in each direction, but a bunch still ranges from 2, 3 and 4 lanes.

This situation is another reason why a new Mississippi River bridge is needed near Tunica at the end of MS-304. I-22 could be extended along that into Arkansas and up to I-40. Best case scenario would be a big I-269 loop going all the way around the greater Memphis area. Unfortunately there's not piles of billions of dollars just laying around to build all these bridges and there's little in the way of federal help and oversight for this situation. The 3 states involved (TN, MS & AR) are left to go it alone. The two existing crossings in Memphis for I-40 and I-55 both need to be replaced with higher capacity structures.

Unfortunately, in this situation we're dealing with one state (MS, of course) that simply can't afford to be involved in expansive projects such as this, and two states (AR & TN) with varying degrees of fiscal capability but with priorities elsewhere in their jurisdictions (AR with I-49, possibly I-57, and the never-ending Little Rock "modifications", and TN perpetually shifting funds to the central or eastern portions of the state).  I've said before that Memphis and environs have the bad luck to be squeezed into the SW corner of TN, where projects that primarily accrue benefits to the neighboring state (such as the short section of I-55 in TN or the Lamar fiasco) are given short shrift by the state that must actually build the facilities.  Add the disdain for urbanized Memphis within TN/Nashville political circles and one has a recipe for inaction or stalemate.  In some areas politics gets things built; in other it prevents just that.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 13, 2019, 08:21:41 PM
And that makes it all the more necessary for the federal government to be involved with the regional transportation issues surrounding Memphis. The feds are AWOL on this of course. Memphis is at an important transportation crossroads, arguably a far more important crossroads than anything in Nashville. The intersection of I-55 and I-40 is in Memphis. The Mississippi River borders Memphis. The primary FedEx hub is based in Memphis.

It's pretty easy to justify FOUR state of the art Mississippi River bridge crossings in the Memphis area (two for a total I-269 outer loop and two for new I-40 and I-55 crossings). The way it looks the federal government will literally wait until the I-40 and I-55 crossings are ready to collapse before they do anything about those bridges.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: txstateends on January 13, 2019, 08:57:44 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on January 13, 2019, 08:21:41 PM
And that makes it all the more necessary for the federal government to be involved with the regional transportation issues surrounding Memphis. The feds are AWOL on this of course. Memphis is at an important transportation crossroads, arguably a far more important crossroads than anything in Nashville. The intersection of I-55 and I-40 is in Memphis. The Mississippi River borders Memphis. The primary FedEx hub is based in Memphis.

It's pretty easy to justify FOUR state of the art Mississippi River bridge crossings in the Memphis area (two for a total I-269 outer loop and two for new I-40 and I-55 crossings). The way it looks the federal government will literally wait until the I-40 and I-55 crossings are ready to collapse before they do anything about those bridges.

Or the next New Madrid rumble happens.  Things will hit the fan there then.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on January 13, 2019, 08:59:59 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on January 13, 2019, 08:21:41 PM
And that makes it all the more necessary for the federal government to be involved with the regional transportation issues surrounding Memphis. The feds are AWOL on this of course. Memphis is at an important transportation crossroads, arguably a far more important crossroads than anything in Nashville. The intersection of I-55 and I-40 is in Memphis. The Mississippi River borders Memphis. The primary FedEx hub is based in Memphis.

It's pretty easy to justify FOUR state of the art Mississippi River bridge crossings in the Memphis area (two for a total I-269 outer loop and two for new I-40 and I-55 crossings). The way it looks the federal government will literally wait until the I-40 and I-55 crossings are ready to collapse before they do anything about those bridges.

I thought there was discussion a few years ago about replacing the bridge on 55, but it never happened.  I-40 had some work done a few years back to make it more quake resistant.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on January 13, 2019, 11:35:20 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280I-55 needs some serious work in Memphis and South of Memphis. The I-55 Mississippi River bridge is a narrow, 4-lane, outdated contraption of a bottleneck. The cloverleaf interchange with Crump Blvd is another bottleneck. I-55 is 3 lanes in each direction South of there, but it really should be four or five lanes in each direction. Parts of the I-55/I-69 multiplex South of I-240 go as wide as 5 lanes in each direction, but a bunch still ranges from 2, 3 and 4 lanes.

South of 240 also has close to double the traffic that 240-to-the-river does.

Have you ever driven that segment of 55 north of 240, Bobby?  Even at rush hour, it flows pretty well, and certainly doesn't need "four or five lanes in each direction."  The vast bulk of the problem is the Crump interchange.  Fix that, fix the lane drops so you have a consistent 6 lanes, and twin the river bridge if you have to.  That's all that's really needed on 55.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on January 14, 2019, 12:03:43 AM
Quote from: froggie on January 13, 2019, 11:35:20 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280I-55 needs some serious work in Memphis and South of Memphis. The I-55 Mississippi River bridge is a narrow, 4-lane, outdated contraption of a bottleneck. The cloverleaf interchange with Crump Blvd is another bottleneck. I-55 is 3 lanes in each direction South of there, but it really should be four or five lanes in each direction. Parts of the I-55/I-69 multiplex South of I-240 go as wide as 5 lanes in each direction, but a bunch still ranges from 2, 3 and 4 lanes.

South of 240 also has close to double the traffic that 240-to-the-river does.

Have you ever driven that segment of 55 north of 240, Bobby?  Even at rush hour, it flows pretty well, and certainly doesn't need "four or five lanes in each direction."  The vast bulk of the problem is the Crump interchange.  Fix that, fix the lane drops so you have a consistent 6 lanes, and twin the river bridge if you have to.  That's all that's really needed on 55.

That interchange is a huge bottleneck since it is a single exit and entrance lane both directions, with northbound being a 270 degree slow loop at that.  That interchange as well as Lamar/Holmes Rd. were always the portions of my trip to northeast Mississippi that I dreaded the most after US-72 was 4 laned across Mississippi back when I visited family before they all grew up and started their own families.  In order to fix that interchange, there would have to be 2 lanes worth of flyover to fix the northbound bottleneck, but southbound would just need another "exit" lane added at the cost of a couple of houses and potentially a sound wall added.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on January 14, 2019, 02:30:20 AM
^^^^^^^^
The 55/240 "bump" is that in name only; the majority of NB traffic on I-55 doesn't make the turn with the signed route -- it continues north on I-240 toward central Memphis, hence that facility receiving the "straightline" through the interchange.  From what I am led to believe, the Crump situation is a result of lack of consensus regarding the closing of the 55 river bridge during the reconstruction process; because of the stalemate regarding this, the upgrade funds were redirected elsewhere.  That controversy will require resolution before any further activity is done on that particular I-55 segment. 

When I-69 is finally signed through central Memphis, it will be the default "mainline" of the interchange as the only route of the 3 converging there to remain on its original trajectory.  FWIW, I always though that I-55 should stay on the present I-240 north to I-40, then coincide with the latter across the river, with the current I-55 bridge and the Crump situation relegated to I-240.  But given the local desire to limit traffic on the I-40 crossing as well as the slim/none possibility of that bridge's expansion, that concept will probably never happen. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rte66man on January 14, 2019, 06:07:23 AM
Quote from: MikieTimT on January 14, 2019, 12:03:43 AM
That interchange is a huge bottleneck since it is a single exit and entrance lane both directions, with northbound being a 270 degree slow loop at that....

Not technically true.  TDOT went in a few years ago and twinned the NB to WB ramp.  I'm not sure why they bothered as it's still a bottleneck
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on January 14, 2019, 08:17:31 AM
^ Still an improvement over the previous single-lane loop plus weaving-situations.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 14, 2019, 11:30:00 AM
Quote from: US71I thought there was discussion a few years ago about replacing the bridge on 55, but it never happened.  I-40 had some work done a few years back to make it more quake resistant.

Neither of those bridges comply with current Interstate highway standards. The I-40 Hernando de Soto Bridge may sport 3 lanes in each direction, but there are no inner or outer shoulders. The I-55 bridge is just 2 lanes in each direction. The road looks so narrow I worry about trading paint with other vehicles while crossing. The only positive thing I can say about the I-55 bridge is it does provide pedestrian and bicycle access on paths attached on the outer edges of the structure.

Quote from: froggieHave you ever driven that segment of 55 north of 240, Bobby?  Even at rush hour, it flows pretty well, and certainly doesn't need "four or five lanes in each direction."  The vast bulk of the problem is the Crump interchange.  Fix that, fix the lane drops so you have a consistent 6 lanes, and twin the river bridge if you have to.  That's all that's really needed on 55.

Yes, I've driven it before but usually avoid it and take I-40 instead. I've seen pretty good traffic back-ups on both sides of the I-55 bridge. If the traffic through that stretch of I-55 is flowing well at all during rush hour it's probably because others are just avoiding that zone of Memphis entirely.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on January 14, 2019, 11:37:26 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280The only positive thing I can say about the I-55 bridge is it does provide pedestrian and bicycle access on paths attached on the outer edges of the structure to an adjacent railroad bridge.

FTFY

(while the I-55 bridge does technically have walkways, they don't connect to anything on the Arkansas side, and the Tennessee side has been horribly unmaintained)

QuoteI've seen pretty good traffic back-ups on both sides of the I-55 bridge.

Due to the Crump interchange, as previously noted.  The rest of I-55 from Crump to 240 is generally fine.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: webny99 on January 14, 2019, 12:28:39 PM
Considering the two Memphis-area crossings (I-55 and I-40) are the only two Mississippi River crossings along a span of over 150 miles (https://www.google.com/maps/dir/Caruthersville+Bridge/Helena+Bridge,+Martin+Luther+King+Jr+Dr,+Helena,+AR+72342/@35.0382303,-91.0949244,8.17z/data=!4m14!4m13!1m5!1m1!1s0x8878c5c3bd5f404b:0xf35bbba1d036fd6a!2m2!1d-89.6131115!2d36.115029!1m5!1m1!1s0x862ad54f51a3d811:0xc596563cd2d95215!2m2!1d-90.5876505!2d34.4965753!5i1!5m1!1e1), it would be hard to say that building the other "half" of I-269, providing two additional river crossings, wouldn't be justified.

Granted, such would be a challenge both fiscally and coordination-wise with one state, much less three, but all three would reap their fair share of the benefits. I would think it would be in the long-term vision, maybe as part of a 50-year regional plan, if nothing else.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on January 14, 2019, 12:46:20 PM
I would love to see 269 extended across the river into Arkansas. I think it would increase commerce in Those towns in east Arkansas en route to Little Rock. Not to mention, I could make it to Little Rock From Atlanta in a little over 7 hours. In what used to be 8 and a half-9 hour hour drive...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on January 14, 2019, 12:47:32 PM
Quote from: froggie on January 14, 2019, 08:17:31 AM
^ Still an improvement over the previous single-lane loop plus weaving-situations.

Just barely given the tight radius of the cloverleaf quadrant and the rather large amount of semi traffic that would have trouble keeping their lane .  The only way it isn't a bottleneck would be to replace the northbound cloverleaf with a flyover.  Not that it would likely be a priority anytime soon.  A southern I-269 that attached to I-55, or better yet, I-40 to bypass West Memphis as well, would be a boon to interstate travel.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: seicer on January 14, 2019, 01:03:29 PM
Improvements are planned to make I-55 the through route with the removal of the cloverleaf: https://www.tn.gov/tdot/projects/region-4/interstate-55-crump-boulevard-interchange.html
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on January 14, 2019, 08:21:57 PM
Quote from: froggie on January 14, 2019, 11:37:26 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280The only positive thing I can say about the I-55 bridge is it does provide pedestrian and bicycle access on paths attached on the outer edges of the structure to an adjacent railroad bridge.

FTFY

(while the I-55 bridge does technically have walkways, they don't connect to anything on the Arkansas side, and the Tennessee side has been horribly unmaintained)

I have walked across the I-55 bridge on the sidewalk (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hands_Across_America).  I cringe to think about what it'd be like now, almost 33 years later.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Hot Rod Hootenanny on January 14, 2019, 09:50:52 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on January 14, 2019, 08:21:57 PM
Quote from: froggie on January 14, 2019, 11:37:26 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280The only positive thing I can say about the I-55 bridge is it does provide pedestrian and bicycle access on paths attached on the outer edges of the structure to an adjacent railroad bridge.

FTFY

(while the I-55 bridge does technically have walkways, they don't connect to anything on the Arkansas side, and the Tennessee side has been horribly unmaintained)

I have walked across the I-55 bridge on the sidewalk (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hands_Across_America).  I cringe to think about what it'd be like now, almost 33 years later.

Couldn't convince myself to try that in 2003 (when I took this picture).
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.roadfan.com%2FMississippi%2Fmembri2.JPG&hash=3a059ae4325901412e0e3530c5f839a07056a838)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on January 15, 2019, 02:51:30 AM
Quote from: seicer on January 14, 2019, 01:03:29 PM
Improvements are planned to make I-55 the through route with the removal of the cloverleaf: https://www.tn.gov/tdot/projects/region-4/interstate-55-crump-boulevard-interchange.html

I'd like to see a publication date of that TNDOT info release; AFAIK a positive ROD was issued several years ago; but the TNDOT article cites problems with the MPO's methodology re determination of need -- so it's back to the proverbial drawing board at least as far as approval is concerned.  The plans illustrated with a direct set of continuous lanes plus a roundabout replacing the old Crump interchange haven't changed since first proffered back about 2010; but since then one thing or another has prevented the project from advancing.  My guess is that even if "green-lit" in terms of the necessary approvals, this would still remain well down TNDOT's priority list. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: seicer on January 15, 2019, 09:25:50 AM
I am guessing it's about the funding and priority list. With the two-lane ramp now in place, it has resolved one of the thorniest issues with the interchange. The rebuild would only increase traffic speeds and simplify that interchange further, but it doesn't seem to be an immediate need.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on January 15, 2019, 10:54:03 AM
^^ The ROD was issued in 2012.  TDOT had an active plan to begin the project ca. 2015-16 but put it on hold after local opposition surfaced to their plan to shut down the bridge during some of the construction.  Then the project was defunded.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 15, 2019, 02:33:10 PM
Quote from: froggie(while the I-55 bridge does technically have walkways, they don't connect to anything on the Arkansas side, and the Tennessee side has been horribly unmaintained)

It's still possible to walk across those bridges, even if there are no sidewalks continuing the pathway on the Arkansas side. The pedestrian path on the adjacent railroad bridge is a new thing (built in 2015). I got a chuckle out of the current Google Earth imagery of the end of the sidewalk on the Arkanas side of the bridge (NB lanes). Someone left a recliner there at the end of the sidewalk. Someone could take a load off after the end of their stroll across the bridge. Watch out for creepy crawlies though.

Quote from: froggieDue to the Crump interchange, as previously noted.  The rest of I-55 from Crump to 240 is generally fine.

Three lanes in each direction is fine for now, with that crappy existing I-55 bridge and I-69 nowhere at all near completion. If the I-55 bridge was replaced and I-69 completed there would be quite a bit more traffic going through that zone. I would expect traffic counts to starting getting more of a bump just from I-269 and I-22 being completed.

The other alternative to improving I-55 in SW Memphis is widening I-240 and I-40 in downtown Memphis. That might be even harder to do. So, once again, with all those deficiencies noted, it makes a stronger case for a new bridge cross down by Tunica -extending I-269 across the river and up to I-40. It would divert a lot of long-distance, thru traffic. Then the folks within Memphis can do whatever. Tear out I-55 and turn it into a surface street. Let the old 4-lane bridge fall into the river.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: edwaleni on January 15, 2019, 09:34:11 PM
Quote from: Hot Rod Hootenanny on January 14, 2019, 09:50:52 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on January 14, 2019, 08:21:57 PM
Quote from: froggie on January 14, 2019, 11:37:26 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280The only positive thing I can say about the I-55 bridge is it does provide pedestrian and bicycle access on paths attached on the outer edges of the structure to an adjacent railroad bridge.

FTFY

(while the I-55 bridge does technically have walkways, they don't connect to anything on the Arkansas side, and the Tennessee side has been horribly unmaintained)

I have walked across the I-55 bridge on the sidewalk (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hands_Across_America).  I cringe to think about what it'd be like now, almost 33 years later.

Couldn't convince myself to try that in 2003 (when I took this picture).
(https://www.aaroads.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.roadfan.com%2FMississippi%2Fmembri2.JPG&hash=3a059ae4325901412e0e3530c5f839a07056a838)

Once the pedestrian trail opened on the Harahan Bridge, they closed the Memphis & Arkansas to pedestrians.

QuoteThe Memphis & Arkansas Bridge carries U.S. Highways 61, 64, 70 and 79 from Memphis to West Memphis; it also carried U.S. Highway 63 prior to its truncation (and later rerouting) in Arkansas. The western terminus of Tennessee State Route 1 sits on the Tennessee-Arkansas boundary halfway across the bridge.

The bridge consists of five Warren through trusses, each with a length of 790 feet (240 m). Combined with the approach segments, the bridge's total length is 5,222 feet (1,592 m). Completed in 1949, it is the only bridge spanning the Mississippi River designed to carry exclusively vehicular traffic that was built before 1950. it was designed by Modjeski and Desoto, successors to the firm that designed the Harahan Bridge, built in 1916 to carry vehicular and rail traffic.[3] The bridge was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2001.[1]

Having been built before the introduction of the Interstate Highway System, the span was not built to Interstate Highway standards, lacking the concrete barrier between the different directions of traffic which was added later. It was also built with a sidewalk on either side of the roadway, positioned just outside the steel truss girders. The sidewalks, now also separated from the traffic lanes by concrete barriers, are accessible from Memphis city sidewalks on the Tennessee side, but give way to grassy slopes on the shoulders of I-55 on the Arkansas side.

The sidewalk and bridge is listed as part of the Mississippi River Trail. However, travel is not recommended across the sidewalk and is prohibited on the vehicle traffic lanes of the bridge, being an Interstate highway crossing. On August 12, 2012, a cyclist was killed after being struck by a vehicle when using the shoulder approaching the bridge.[4] In 2016, a pedestrian/bicycle path on the neighboring Harahan Bridge made crossing the river safer and eliminated the need to use the I-55 bridge.[5]

On Tuesday, December 23, 2014, numerous news sources reported that the FBI had released an official statement warning local law enforcements of a threat to the bridge during that month. The FBI stated, "According to an anonymous complainant... ISIS instructed an ISIS member, a presumed USPER (U.S. person) in Memphis, with a direct order to blow up the Memphis-Arkansas bridge on an unknown date, activating ISIS terror cells in the United States." Security was heightened, but the threat was later discredited.[6]
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: NE2 on January 15, 2019, 09:36:43 PM
Citation needed for the I-55 sidewalks being closed to peds (rather than just bypassed).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on March 11, 2019, 02:44:32 PM
Drove 269 last Friday at rush hour and was amazed at how many people use this route. Tennessee did a great job in being proactive in getting this route built. It definitely helps ease the traffic along IH 240 and Mississippi route 302 which was hell to get through prior to the completion of IH 269. I just wish it could be extended west to connect to IH 40 in Eastern Arkansas.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: edwaleni on March 12, 2019, 12:53:08 PM
Quote from: NE2 on January 15, 2019, 09:36:43 PM
Citation needed for the I-55 sidewalks being closed to peds (rather than just bypassed).

Arkansas removed the west ped access to the bridge when the Harahan ped access opened. Memphis used to host a bridge walk from the east side but it has since moved to the Harahan.

All the updated Mississippi River bike trail maps have removed the M&A as a path and moved it over the Harahan.

So while it technically still exists and there are no barrels or rope blocking anyone from entering on the Memphis side, there is no safe way to complete the crossing anymore so you essentially walk back.

So by law is it closed? Not that I can tell. Is it functionally closed? Yes because you can't cross it anymore, at least not legally and without risking your life.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on March 13, 2019, 07:08:59 PM
Quote from: edwaleni on March 12, 2019, 12:53:08 PMArkansas removed the west ped access to the bridge when the Harahan ped access opened. Memphis used to host a bridge walk from the east side but it has since moved to the Harahan.

All the updated Mississippi River bike trail maps have removed the M&A as a path and moved it over the Harahan.

So while it technically still exists and there are no barrels or rope blocking anyone from entering on the Memphis side, there is no safe way to complete the crossing anymore so you essentially walk back.

So by law is it closed? Not that I can tell. Is it functionally closed? Yes because you can't cross it anymore, at least not legally and without risking your life.

In the years I grew up in Memphis...the Arkansas end of the Memphis-Arkansas Bridge sidewalks was rather abrupt.  You were left to either go down the embankment on the south side to access Daucus Lake Rd., or continue on along the shoulder (hoping not to be hit or have stuff thrown at you) to the Bridgeport Road exit.   On the Memphis side, the south walkway was accessible through Crump Park, while the north walkway was accessible from a crumbling staircase off the Frisco bridge access road.

I don't remember having seen anything change as regards the Memphis-Arkansas Bridge sidewalks since the Big River Crossing, and the GSV images (dated June last year) match my memory.

I don't know what that means in terms of the sidewalks being open or closed, and using them hasn't been a great idea for many years....but I think they're still accessible.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Ryctor2018 on July 29, 2019, 06:35:39 PM
Google street view has updated (some of) Interstate 269 in Mississippi, around Memphis. The images are from Mar 2019, but all of the freeway is not online yet.
https://www.google.com/maps/@34.8733567,-89.7348822,3a,75y,48.02h,86.83t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1szYQ51TPkgeNE_f3kgopZ7Q!2e0!7i16384!8i8192
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on July 30, 2019, 08:58:55 AM
Quote from: Ryctor2018 on July 29, 2019, 06:35:39 PM
Google street view has updated (some of) Interstate 269 in Mississippi, around Memphis. The images are from Mar 2019, but all of the freeway is not online yet.
https://www.google.com/maps/@34.8733567,-89.7348822,3a,75y,48.02h,86.83t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1szYQ51TPkgeNE_f3kgopZ7Q!2e0!7i16384!8i8192

Looks like he got on at MS 304 went East and got off at MS 302.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on July 30, 2019, 04:27:55 PM
 https://dailymemphian.com/article/6506/New-I-269-interchange-next-project-up-for-Hernando (https://dailymemphian.com/article/6506/New-I-269-interchange-next-project-up-for-Hernando)

This article from yesterday gives a few details about the project to realign and widen McIngvale Road in Hernando and the subsequent project to add an interchange with I-269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on July 31, 2019, 04:05:52 PM
I like the addition of a new interchange and widening of McInvale Rd near IH-55. Hopefully this is complete within 18 months. I need a way to bypass rush hour traffic on 55 south of the 302 interchange. Why it's only 2 lanes in each direction instead of 4 is beyond me!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: froggie on July 31, 2019, 04:34:21 PM
^ Because MDOT and the state legislature put almost all their road construction money into their rural 4-lane program, is by and large against raising the gas tax to increase revenue, and is now increasingly broke as a result of both.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on August 01, 2019, 01:52:06 PM
^^
I'm in Memphis for a couple of days, one of my routine trips to check up on my father.

Local TV is full of ads for the Mississippi GOP primaries coming up soon.   At least one candidate for Transportation Commissioner appears to be campaigning hard on the "no gas tax increase" front, to the extent that any of the candidates for any office are talking about proposals/positions.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Grzrd on August 09, 2020, 12:59:35 PM
Quote from: Brooks on July 30, 2019, 04:27:55 PM
https://dailymemphian.com/article/6506/New-I-269-interchange-next-project-up-for-Hernando (https://dailymemphian.com/article/6506/New-I-269-interchange-next-project-up-for-Hernando)
This article from yesterday gives a few details about the project to realign and widen McIngvale Road in Hernando and the subsequent project to add an interchange with I-269.

This article provides an update on the McIngvale Road interchange and states that it should be finished next Spring:

http://m.desototimes.com/news/mcingvale-interchange-improvements-showing-progress/article_ac42ff84-abe5-11ea-ac92-17953f7ac524.html
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rte66man on August 09, 2020, 04:00:46 PM
Quote from: Grzrd on August 09, 2020, 12:59:35 PM
Quote from: Brooks on July 30, 2019, 04:27:55 PM
https://dailymemphian.com/article/6506/New-I-269-interchange-next-project-up-for-Hernando (https://dailymemphian.com/article/6506/New-I-269-interchange-next-project-up-for-Hernando)
This article from yesterday gives a few details about the project to realign and widen McIngvale Road in Hernando and the subsequent project to add an interchange with I-269.

This article provides an update on the McIngvale Road interchange and states that it should be finished next Spring:

http://m.desototimes.com/news/mcingvale-interchange-improvements-showing-progress/article_ac42ff84-abe5-11ea-ac92-17953f7ac524.html

Welcome back!

Looked at the layout on Google Maps.  I was surprised to see there is only one exit on I55 for Hernando. I know that area has really grown but it makes me wonder why they couldn't have done the McIngvale Road interchange while building 269. Also wonder why an exit wasn't put in on 55 at Byhalia Road.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on August 10, 2020, 04:23:32 AM
Quote from: froggie on July 31, 2019, 04:34:21 PM
^ Because MDOT and the state legislature put almost all their road construction money into their rural 4-lane program, is by and large against raising the gas tax to increase revenue, and is now increasingly broke as a result of both.


.....aka cognitive dissonance at the level of governance.  Common problem these days with the present state of polarization!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ethanhopkin14 on August 10, 2020, 09:20:17 AM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on August 01, 2019, 01:52:06 PM
^^
I'm in Memphis for a couple of days, one of my routine trips to check up on my father.

Local TV is full of ads for the Mississippi GOP primaries coming up soon.   At least one candidate for Transportation Commissioner appears to be campaigning hard on the "no gas tax increase" front, to the extent that any of the candidates for any office are talking about proposals/positions.

The states wonder why their I-69 funds are missing.  I's funny to me that Mississippi has the shortest segment of I-69, much of which is already existing interstates or has been built, yet might be the last to finish or might be the reason I-69 has a continuity gap.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: abqtraveler on August 10, 2020, 11:33:20 AM
Quote from: ethanhopkin14 on August 10, 2020, 09:20:17 AM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on August 01, 2019, 01:52:06 PM
^^
I'm in Memphis for a couple of days, one of my routine trips to check up on my father.

Local TV is full of ads for the Mississippi GOP primaries coming up soon.   At least one candidate for Transportation Commissioner appears to be campaigning hard on the "no gas tax increase" front, to the extent that any of the candidates for any office are talking about proposals/positions.

The states wonder why their I-69 funds are missing.  I's funny to me that Mississippi has the shortest segment of I-69, much of which is already existing interstates or has been built, yet might be the last to finish or might be the reason I-69 has a continuity gap.

When you see candidates running on an anti-tax platform, it's clear there is no appetite in Mississippi to find ways to raise funds for better roads. I recall about 10 years ago, there was a discussion about financing the remainder of I-69 through Mississippi with tolls. A concept to toll I-69 from where it currently ends to the Great River Bridge never gained traction with state lawmakers. With the area through which I-69 would go being sparsely populated, there probably wouldn't be enough traffic for a toll road to break even.

While I'm not a fan of paying more in taxes, I would accept higher taxes IF they are dedicated to building and maintaining better roads and infrastructure.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Alex on September 14, 2020, 09:55:24 AM
Finally rode on Interstate 269 last week and was surprised to see a new interchange already under construction just east of the exchange with I-55/69.

McIngvale interchange, improvements showing progress (http://www.desototimes.com/news/mcingvale-interchange-improvements-showing-progress/article_ac42ff84-abe5-11ea-ac92-17953f7ac524.html)

QuoteThere are several ongoing road projects underway in Hernando that will provide the city a second entrance off the interstate road system, alleviate some traffic congestion along Commerce Street, and also offer new walking and cycling opportunities for the DeSoto County seat.

Top among the list is the McIngvale Road interchange into the city from I-269. Construction on the interchange has begun with the clearing of vegetation and earthwork being done on the south side of I-269, while clearing is also being done on the north side of the interstate.

The nearly $8 million project is being done by Tanner Construction Company and is expected to be done by next spring.

Hernando Mayor Tom Ferguson stakes the interchange's construction as another boost to economic growth for the city as he also hopes it will help reduce traffic congestion at the I-55/Commerce Street interchange, currently the only interstate entrance into the city.

QuoteAs the McIngvale Road interchange provides new freeway access and egress from Hernando, city officials are also excited about the McIngvale Road realignment project. McIngvale had to be realigned to meet up with the new interchange and the necessity of that allows for a redesign of the roadway. It will run behind Hernando Hills Elementary School and will be a five-lane roadway. It costs $8.7 million and is 1.4 miles in length from north of Byhalia Road to the north of Green T Road.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on September 14, 2020, 12:22:35 PM
Nice, I hope there are plans to add a truck stop or 2 would be real convenient. Having to stop for gas off SR 302 in Southaven is a pain because of the traffic
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: I-55 on September 14, 2020, 02:42:17 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on September 14, 2020, 12:22:35 PM
Nice, I hope there are plans to add a truck stop or 2 would be real convenient. Having to stop for gas off SR 302 in Southaven is a pain because of the traffic

The only gas station on the current route is a Shell at US-64 (Exit 15). I would imagine that if there was development of truck stops it'd be at either US-64 or MS-302
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: The Ghostbuster on September 14, 2020, 06:51:35 PM
Why wasn't an interchange included at McIngvale Rd. when Interstate 269 was first constructed? Was it considered to be too close to the Interstate 55/69/269 interchange?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sprjus4 on September 14, 2020, 08:19:33 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on September 14, 2020, 06:51:35 PM
Why wasn't an interchange included at McIngvale Rd. when Interstate 269 was first constructed? Was it considered to be too close to the Interstate 55/69/269 interchange?
Likely budget. McIngvale is 5 lanes on its overpass, there were clearly plans to eventually construct it.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on September 17, 2020, 12:05:03 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on September 14, 2020, 08:19:33 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on September 14, 2020, 06:51:35 PM
Why wasn't an interchange included at McIngvale Rd. when Interstate 269 was first constructed? Was it considered to be too close to the Interstate 55/69/269 interchange?
Likely budget. McIngvale is 5 lanes on its overpass, there were clearly plans to eventually construct it.

It's further back in the thread, but his interchange came up while 269 was under construction.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on December 28, 2020, 09:43:19 PM
Visited 269 on Saturday. Noticed there was development (A warehouse or two??) on the east side of the 55/269 interchange, as well at the next interchange as someone mentioned last summer on the adjacent exit on 269 a mile from 55. I hope this is the spot where a few truck stops and restaurants are planned. Stopping in Southaven is hell because of backwards urban planning 20 years ago. A Buc'ees on that stretch of 269 would be nice, plus it would bring jobs to the area
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 29, 2020, 05:16:57 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on December 28, 2020, 09:43:19 PM
Visited 269 on Saturday. Noticed there was development (A warehouse or two??) on the east side of the 55/269 interchange, as well at the next interchange as someone mentioned last summer on the adjacent exit on 269 a mile from 55. I hope this is the spot where a few truck stops and restaurants are planned. Stopping in Southaven is hell because of backwards urban planning 20 years ago. A Buc'ees on that stretch of 269 would be nice, plus it would bring jobs to the area

Question:  has MS erected any I-22 trailblazer signage at the 55/69/269 interchange?  If not, it would seem that they have joined their neighbor AL in all but ignoring the Memphis-Birmingham Interstate.  And after all that money spent in the two states on that freeway.  Doesn't make a lot of sense!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on December 29, 2020, 01:46:48 PM
Yes, I-22 is signed at the I-269 interchange, both on overhead signs and on ground mounted reassurance post signs.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on December 29, 2020, 02:50:46 PM
(https://live.staticflickr.com/1941/31718729798_4945cdb2e0_d.jpg)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/1916/45540483092_f7d7efdc23_d.jpg)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/4836/44949978424_bb30104e7e_z_d.jpg)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on December 29, 2020, 04:45:40 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 29, 2020, 05:16:57 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on December 28, 2020, 09:43:19 PM
Visited 269 on Saturday. Noticed there was development (A warehouse or two??) on the east side of the 55/269 interchange, as well at the next interchange as someone mentioned last summer on the adjacent exit on 269 a mile from 55. I hope this is the spot where a few truck stops and restaurants are planned. Stopping in Southaven is hell because of backwards urban planning 20 years ago. A Buc'ees on that stretch of 269 would be nice, plus it would bring jobs to the area

Question:  has MS erected any I-22 trailblazer signage at the 55/69/269 interchange?  If not, it would seem that they have joined their neighbor AL in all but ignoring the Memphis-Birmingham Interstate.  And after all that money spent in the two states on that freeway.  Doesn't make a lot of sense!

I believe you are referring to I-22 shields at the I-55 interchange, not at the actual I-22 interchange. To my knowledge, there aren't any such trailblazers along I-55 indicating the existence of I-22.

For what it is worth, there is a ground-mounted sign along NB I-55 saying "TO EAST I-40 Nashville" south of I-269.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 29, 2020, 05:47:38 PM
Quote from: codyg1985 on December 29, 2020, 04:45:40 PM
Quote from: sparker on December 29, 2020, 05:16:57 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on December 28, 2020, 09:43:19 PM
Visited 269 on Saturday. Noticed there was development (A warehouse or two??) on the east side of the 55/269 interchange, as well at the next interchange as someone mentioned last summer on the adjacent exit on 269 a mile from 55. I hope this is the spot where a few truck stops and restaurants are planned. Stopping in Southaven is hell because of backwards urban planning 20 years ago. A Buc'ees on that stretch of 269 would be nice, plus it would bring jobs to the area

Question:  has MS erected any I-22 trailblazer signage at the 55/69/269 interchange?  If not, it would seem that they have joined their neighbor AL in all but ignoring the Memphis-Birmingham Interstate.  And after all that money spent in the two states on that freeway.  Doesn't make a lot of sense!

I believe you are referring to I-22 shields at the I-55 interchange, not at the actual I-22 interchange. To my knowledge, there aren't any such trailblazers along I-55 indicating the existence of I-22.

For what it is worth, there is a ground-mounted sign along NB I-55 saying "TO EAST I-40 Nashville" south of I-269.

Wow!  They "trailblaze" an Interstate that doesn't even enter their state, but ignore one that does!  What is obviously needed is an equivalent sign both NB and SB on I-55 saying "TO EAST I-22 Birmingham and/or Tupelo".  Someone should give MSDOT a bit of a hint!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on December 29, 2020, 06:14:34 PM
is there a reason why 22 wasn't routed to tie into tenn 385/269 interchange then have 22 use 385 to end at 240?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: abqtraveler on December 29, 2020, 06:35:09 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 29, 2020, 06:14:34 PM
is there a reason why 22 wasn't routed to tie into tenn 385/269 interchange then have 22 use 385 to end at 240?

The section of TN-385 between I-240 and I-269 is not up to interstate standards, and would require a lot of work to get it to interstate-grade. Tennessee is currently working to upgrade Lamar Avenue (the last non-freeway section of US-78) between the Mississippi state line and I-240. We may see I-22 eventually extended from its current terminus to I-240 via US-78.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: silverback1065 on December 29, 2020, 06:36:43 PM
Quote from: abqtraveler on December 29, 2020, 06:35:09 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 29, 2020, 06:14:34 PM
is there a reason why 22 wasn't routed to tie into tenn 385/269 interchange then have 22 use 385 to end at 240?

The section of TN-385 between I-240 and I-269 is not up to interstate standards, and would require a lot of work to get it to interstate-grade. Tennessee is currently working to upgrade Lamar Avenue (the last non-freeway section of US-78) between the Mississippi state line and I-240. We may see I-22 eventually extended from its current terminus to I-240 via US-78.

wouldn't upgrading 385 be cheaper than 78?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on December 29, 2020, 07:07:30 PM
Any news on the northern arc of 269? For selfish reasons, i Would love to see it wrap around to IH 55 In NEA, But that is a pipedream because of having to build a bridge over the Mississippi
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on December 29, 2020, 07:09:29 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 29, 2020, 06:14:34 PM
is there a reason why 22 wasn't routed to tie into tenn 385/269 interchange then have 22 use 385 to end at 240?

In reality, TN's political structure has never been particularly interested in I-22 -- possibly since it functionally serves its least favorite metro area, Memphis -- and the few TN miles there would be for any alignment option don't hold much promise in the way of revenue.  In fact, early (pre-2002) attempts to get an Interstate designation for the corridor fell victim to an intraparty "feud" between then-Sens. Bill Frist (R-TN) and Trent Lott (R-MS); but since then all activities toward that end -- and the ensuing completion of I-22 -- have come from MS and AL.  Even though Frist is no longer a factor, there remains negligible interest in the I-22 corridor within TN circles, official or de facto
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on December 29, 2020, 07:10:56 PM
Quote from: abqtraveler on December 29, 2020, 06:35:09 PM
Quote from: silverback1065 on December 29, 2020, 06:14:34 PM
is there a reason why 22 wasn't routed to tie into tenn 385/269 interchange then have 22 use 385 to end at 240?

The section of TN-385 between I-240 and I-269 is not up to interstate standards, and would require a lot of work to get it to interstate-grade. Tennessee is currently working to upgrade Lamar Avenue (the last non-freeway section of US-78) between the Mississippi state line and I-240. We may see I-22 eventually extended from its current terminus to I-240 via US-78.

The Lamar Ave upgrade isn't to bring it up to interstate standards. It is to add a few interchanges at major roads and add an additional lane in each direction, but there aren't any plans for TDOT to upgrade Lamar Ave to an interstate-quality freeway to extend I-22 onto.

Here is the official TDOT website about the project. (https://www.tn.gov/tdot/projects/region-4/lamar-avenue.html)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on December 29, 2020, 09:20:18 PM
It's ridiculous they hadn't upgraded Lamar Avenue/US-78 up to Interstate standards between the MS state line and I-240 years ago. There is a lot of traffic on that route, particularly heavy trucks. The route is as easy to justify upgrading to Interstate standards as just about any other corridor in need in the nation.

Aside from budgetary concerns, the only other current excuse I can see for not extending I-22 to I-240 is the traffic bottleneck at the I-55 Mississippi River bridge and Crump Blvd interchange. That zone just flat out sucks. At least there are plans to replace the Crump Blvd interchange with a far more efficient design for thru I-55 traffic. Unfortunately that old, skinny 4-lane bridge over the Mississippi needs to be replaced. Even the I-40 bridge nearby doesn't live up to current Interstate standards (no shoulders). As long as the existing Mississippi River bridges remain as is that will give TDOT plenty of reason to go slow with US-78/I-22 upgrades along Lamar Avenue.

At the very least the City of Memphis and TDOT need to have a strict, long-range plan that involves turning that corridor into a 6-lane or 8-lane freeway, even if it has to be done in an incremental, piece-meal fashion. They at least need to zone things where nothing new can be built within so many feet of the US-78 centerline.

The new interchanges at Holmes Road, Shelby Drive and Winchester Road (and improvements to existing interchanges at Raines, Perkins and Getwell Roads) will be a good start. That will at least open the door for additional Interstate quality improvements between interchanges from the state line up to Getwell Road. That would leave a final gap of about 2 miles between Getwell Road and I-240. None of the commercial and industrial properties along that stretch are nice looking at all. TDOT would have options to build that last stretch as an elevated highway over the top of the US-78 surface street. Or they could buy up old and dilapidated properties to just to build a traditional widening project the rest of the way.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on December 29, 2020, 10:45:08 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on December 29, 2020, 09:20:18 PM
It's ridiculous they hadn't upgraded Lamar Avenue/US-78 up to Interstate standards between the MS state line and I-240 years ago. There is a lot of traffic on that route, particular heavy trucks. The route is as easy to justify upgrading to Interstate standards as just about any other corridor in need in the nation.


Hindsight is always 20/20

Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on December 29, 2020, 11:26:47 PM
Yeah, hindsight is 20/20. But the traffic issues on the US-78 corridor in that area are not going to disappear. Over time the issues may only get worse, even with three signaled intersections being replaced with limited access exits. Vehicle counts will still increase. Driveways coming out of industrial shops and other businesses will pose more of a hazard due to vehicles turning out of those businesses directly onto the main lanes of the highway. It does look like some of the intersection conversions will remove at least some of the driveways. Over time TDOT will be forced to do more and more improvements on this road until it is a full blown freeway (at least up to Getwell Road).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Brooks on December 29, 2020, 11:37:30 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on December 29, 2020, 11:26:47 PM
Yeah, hindsight is 20/20. But the traffic issues on the US-78 corridor in that area are not going to disappear. Over time the issues may only get worse, even with three signaled intersections being replaced with limited access exits. Vehicle counts will still increase. Driveways coming out of industrial shops and other businesses will pose more of a hazard due to vehicles turning out of those businesses directly onto the main lanes of the highway. It does look like some of the intersection conversions will remove at least some of the driveways. Over time TDOT will be forced to do more and more improvements on this road until it is a full blown freeway (at least up to Getwell Road).
Spot on. The deficiencies of the Lamar corridor are not going to go away, and the truck traffic is only going to increase. Blighted/vacant properties (yes, there are plenty) are slowly being purchased and filled in. The area will always be prime real estate for warehouses and distribution centers because of its proximity to the airport and FedEx. TDOT can (and probably will) keep kicking the can down the road but they need to realize it's better to get it done sooner rather than later, as costs will inevitably increase. It would pay to invest in Memphis for once.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: capt.ron on December 30, 2020, 01:30:55 PM
Definitely hindsight is 20/20 when Tennessee could have (and should have) upgraded their section of US 78 when they had a good chance to...like in the early 1980's for example. But for me, it's moot since I will now take I-55 south out of Memphis until reaching I-269 and running that over to I-22 if I ever make my way down to Florida again (I-55 -> I-269 -> I-22 -> I-65 -> US 231 to PCB).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bwana39 on December 30, 2020, 02:03:18 PM
More Practically, I-22 should follow I-69 /269 to near US-61 and cross the Mississippi River and either go straight to Brinkley or follow US-79 to I-40.

Memphis needs a 3rd bridge.  I personally think that the I-69 bridge should be north of the Arkansas and White rivers confluences, but that is not what Arkansas wants. I get that the crossings of both of them would be needed, but still it makes sense in every realm except up front costs and perhaps some hoped economic development in Desha and Arkansas Counties.  My thoughts on the economic development is that it only is going to benefit the people who sell their land for the R.O.W.  Interstate 20 has minimally helped Beinville or Lincoln Parishes in LA. I-49 has done little for the places between Alexandria and Shreveport.  Perhaps the town on the freeways in the truly rural areas have SHRUNK less, but none the less, they still continue to at best remain fairly constant in population with the average income shrinking.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on December 30, 2020, 04:03:44 PM
Quote from: bwana39 on December 30, 2020, 02:03:18 PM
More Practically, I-22 should follow I-69 /269 to near US-61 and cross the Mississippi River and either go straight to Brinkley or follow US-79 to I-40.

Memphis needs a 3rd bridge.  I personally think that the I-69 bridge should be north of the Arkansas and White rivers confluences, but that is not what Arkansas wants. I get that the crossings of both of them would be needed, but still it makes sense in every realm except up front costs and perhaps some hoped economic development in Desha and Arkansas Counties.  My thoughts on the economic development is that it only is going to benefit the people who sell their land for the R.O.W.  Interstate 20 has minimally helped Beinville or Lincoln Parishes in LA. I-49 has done little for the places between Alexandria and Shreveport.  Perhaps the town on the freeways in the truly rural areas have SHRUNK less, but none the less, they still continue to at best remain fairly constant in population with the average income shrinking.

Up front costs are a big deal in a state like Arkansas with it being poor.  Due to its central location, it should be getting much more help federally than it has as I-49 and I-57 are routes that will trim quite a lot of AADT from other currently overburdened and somewhat less direct routes with out-of-state through traffic.  Many of the richer states have well developed Interstate Highway systems due to there being a much larger federal match back when they were initially built, which was in wealthier locales back then to begin with, so it wasn't the relative burden on their taxpayers that the current federal matches place upon new builds now.  I would personally like as much of I-69 built in Arkansas as possible as it would benefit the poorer half of the state more, but if we can't even fund a single bridge over the Arkansas River for connecting up 2 completed sections of I-49 now, I don't see anything other than a wholesale change in highway funding at the federal level to even have a chance at I-69 being completed along any route in MS, LA, or AR in our lifetimes, much less changing the routing to cross 3 major navigable rivers.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on December 30, 2020, 04:11:39 PM
In a perfect world, with proper input of federal oversight and funding, the Memphis area could use four Mississippi River bridge crossings. Really, the federal government should be heavily involved and heavily invested in the Memphis area bridge crossings due to the major impact they have on the entirety of the Interstate highway system.

As I said earlier, the existing 71 year old I-55 bridge needs to be replaced. The I-40 crossing, aka the Hernando De Soto Bridge, was built in 1957. It's six lanes wide with no shoulders; an adequate bridge for that crossing would sport 8 lanes as well as inner and outer shoulders.

The other two Mississippi River crossings would involve I-269. The logical Southern crossing would start its approach in the vicinity of where MS-304 leaves I-69 to end at US-61. That's in the same general area as the Tunica casino resorts. A bridge crossing there followed by a freeway curving up to I-40 in Arkansas would provide a very effective Southern bypass of Memphis. And it would be a more direct path for Tunica tourists coming from Arkansas and points farther West. The road could work being signed as I-22. The Northern I-269 crossing would go from Millington, TN to Clarkedale, AR. The last NW quadrant of the I-269 outer loop could then curve down to I-40, meeting the SW quadrant of the outer loop.

Of course these bridges have nothing to do with the Great River Bridge farther South between McGehee, AR and Benoit, MS.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on December 31, 2020, 02:40:06 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on December 30, 2020, 04:11:39 PM
In a perfect world, with proper input of federal oversight and funding, the Memphis area could use four Mississippi River bridge crossings. Really, the federal government should be heavily involved and heavily invested in the Memphis area bridge crossings due to the major impact they have on the entirety of the Interstate highway system.

As I said earlier, the existing 71 year old I-55 bridge needs to be replaced. The I-40 crossing, aka the Hernando De Soto Bridge, was built in 1957. It's six lanes wide with no shoulders; an adequate bridge for that crossing would sport 8 lanes as well as inner and outer shoulders.

The other two Mississippi River crossings would involve I-269. The logical Southern crossing would start its approach in the vicinity of where MS-304 leaves I-69 to end at US-61. That's in the same general area as the Tunica casino resorts. A bridge crossing there followed by a freeway curving up to I-40 in Arkansas would provide a very effective Southern bypass of Memphis. And it would be a more direct path for Tunica tourists coming from Arkansas and points farther West. The road could work being signed as I-22. The Northern I-269 crossing would go from Millington, TN to Clarkedale, AR. The last NW quadrant of the I-269 outer loop could then curve down to I-40, meeting the SW quadrant of the outer loop.

Of course these bridges have nothing to do with the Great River Bridge farther South between McGehee, AR and Benoit, MS.

True, and I would argue would be a higher priority to the motoring public as well.  But with 3 states involved instead of 2, a federal project rather than one led by 3 states with their own budgetary priorities in an area far from their respective capitals is the only way it happens.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on December 31, 2020, 02:58:05 PM
3 cash strapped states combined with all their respective bureaucracies and mountains of red tape are all the more reason for the federal government to get in there and get 'er done.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bwana39 on December 31, 2020, 03:00:36 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on December 30, 2020, 04:11:39 PM
In a perfect world, with proper input of federal oversight and funding, the Memphis area could use four Mississippi River bridge crossings. Really, the federal government should be heavily involved and heavily invested in the Memphis area bridge crossings due to the major impact they have on the entirety of the Interstate highway system.

As I said earlier, the existing 71 year old I-55 bridge needs to be replaced. The I-40 crossing, aka the Hernando De Soto Bridge, was built in 1957. It's six lanes wide with no shoulders; an adequate bridge for that crossing would sport 8 lanes as well as inner and outer shoulders.

The other two Mississippi River crossings would involve I-269. The logical Southern crossing would start its approach in the vicinity of where MS-304 leaves I-69 to end at US-61. That's in the same general area as the Tunica casino resorts. A bridge crossing there followed by a freeway curving up to I-40 in Arkansas would provide a very effective Southern bypass of Memphis. And it would be a more direct path for Tunica tourists coming from Arkansas and points farther West. The road could work being signed as I-22. The Northern I-269 crossing would go from Millington, TN to Clarkedale, AR. The last NW quadrant of the I-269 outer loop could then curve down to I-40, meeting the SW quadrant of the outer loop.

Of course these bridges have nothing to do with the Great River Bridge farther South between McGehee, AR and Benoit, MS.

I agree in full that the I-269 loop would be a good fit.  A second new crossing would be really nice. I agree that the existing bridges are both really under the needed capacity and design. I think they would suffice if there were two new bridges. A new bridge in Northwest Mississippi would really help the Memphis and Arkansas Bridge out if there was a freeway that went all the way from I-55 to the new bridge. I am fully on-board for Memphis area improvements.

While it may be set in permanent stone. NOTHING will convince me that the Great River Bridge where envisioned is anything but a giant homage (patronage?) to Bob Moore and the past power of Trent Lott. It makes ZERO sense. It might have made sense to Arkansas when Trent Lott promised a giant Valentine with little cost. It certainly hasn't worked that way. Perhaps Senator Lott saw the costs to Mississippi and figured the bridge would get built, Mississippi would have no stomach to build the so closely parallel to I-55 freeway and figure out they would extend it from the bridge to I-55 near Grenada MS (Mr. Lott's home town).

As to spacing of the bridges, from Caruthersville Mo to Memphis is around 100 river miles (around 75 highway miles). From Memphis to Helena is around 70 miles both river and highway.  From Helena to the Greenville Bridge is a round 160 River miles but just over 100 road miles on the Mississippi side. It is markedly farther on the Arkansas Side. That has  to do with the Arkansas and White Rivers.  Admittedly Arkansas and Desha Counties are isolated by in the armpit (confluence) of the rivers, but some times isolation is just a part of it.  As to the proposed I-69 river crossing, it is around thirty miles closer to Helena. It would be the closest state to state rural crossing on the lower Mississippi (the same state Louisiana to Louisiana ones are close to the same.) The traffic on the Audubon bridge is 3,000 per day.

Back to the Great River Bridge... Local traffic is less than 7,000 vehicles per day at Greenville. Less than 5,000 at Helena. My fears is if I-69 were built with the Arkansas County crossing, it would still be a fairly disused routing. The mileage difference from Nacogdoches to Memphis is insignificant over the future I-369 to I-30 / I-40.  You would miss Little Rock and come into Memphis in a less congested manner, but fuel contracts would negate the minimal benefits. It would take decades for the services to build up to a level for the travel to increase.

I think that I-49 north from Texarkana will make a far larger difference on traffic pattern shift than I-69 north of Shreveport.  What I-49 actually means to traffic volumes on I-30 between Texarkana and Little Rock is still up in the air. The traffic going to Saint Louis and west probably would choose I-49 going through Texarkana

As to your last comment, they have nothing to do with the proposed great river bridge. They have everything to do with it. This is not a perfect world. I believe there will be no more than one new route bridge built on the lower Mississippi in Arkansas or Missouri.  There MIGHT be a replacement (only if there is a failure or anticipated failure. NOT a capacity issue).  Arkansas County is NOT the place to build it. 

I do believe Louisiana will build one if not two in metro Baton Rouge. That is neither Arkansas nor Mississippi.

I also believe the Feds will have to do any of this that gets done beyond the minimums.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on December 31, 2020, 06:26:36 PM
If I could pick only one location for a brand new Mississippi River bridge crossing from the Memphis area down South, I would emphatically choose the site near Tunica. That bridge site would be the most beneficial for the whole Interstate system and provide perhaps a more logical start/end point for I-22 at I-40 in Eastern Arkansas. Such a bridge would re-route a significant amount of traffic from the stressed I-40 & I-55 bridges.

I, too, don't like the proposed location of the Great River Bridge. A new crossing at Helena would shift I-69 into a more direct path between Shreveport and Memphis. And that's even if I-69 is built as previously proposed between Shreveport and Monticello. But a more direct crossing would require two new bridges, one over the Arkansas River and another over the White River. That's in addition to building a brand new Mississippi River crossing at Helena. Obviously the powers that be would prefer building only one big bridge, but farther South.

I don't think the Great River Bridge design and location is permanently set in stone. Overall I think the project is at considerable risk of just never getting built at all.

The need for new I-40 & I-55 bridges (and I-269 bridges) in the Memphis region is great. The traffic burden is the first concern. Redundancy is another big concern. The existing bridges in Memphis are old and may not withstand a disaster, such as a major earthquake up river near the New Madrid area. Terrorists have had plans to target major pieces of infrastructure. Having new Mississippi River bridges in the Memphis area and more than one of them would help prevent a major part of our highway network from being crippled in the event of a disaster.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: BrandonC_TX on December 31, 2020, 10:27:03 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on December 31, 2020, 06:26:36 PM
Redundancy is another big concern. The existing bridges in Memphis are old and may not withstand a disaster, such as a major earthquake up river near the New Madrid area.

There is an even closer fault line in the vicinity of Marianna, AR, which could produce a 7.0 earthquake.  I know the I-40 bridge has seen seismic retrofits over the years, but I'm not too sure about the I-55 (Memphis-Arkansas) bridge.

Memphis is a major logistics center, so you are completely correct about the need for redundancy.  A New Madrid (or Marianna Fault) earthquake would be a region-wide disaster, so preserving the ability to get supplies in (and out) of the region in the aftermath is essential.  Travel, due to damaged roads and bridges, may be unsafe for some time afterwards.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Revive 755 on December 31, 2020, 11:30:16 PM
^ But if there was a major earthquake, would a temporary floating bridge or two across the Mississippi be unfeasible, possibly due to river currents or allowing barge traffic for relief efforts?
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 01, 2021, 08:53:28 PM
Even if ship and barge traffic wasn't a factor, I have doubts a floating bridge (temporary or not) would be feasible across the Mississippi River near Memphis. The river is pretty wide and its currents are strong. Plus there is a considerable amount of debris large and small floating through it from time to time, like uprooted trees for instance. Lake Washington by Seattle has large, floating pontoon bridges carrying a couple of major highways (like I-90). But Lake Washington is a pretty stable body of water compared to the Mississippi River.

If the I-40 & I-55 bridges were destroyed or rendered impassible due to an earthquake or other disaster all traffic in that area would be stuck having to use ferries to cross the river until one or more new bridges could be built. A lot of long distance traffic would be diverted a good distance to the nearest, functional bridge crossings. In a bad enough disaster could mean going as far as I-20 or I-70.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Wayward Memphian on January 01, 2021, 10:31:39 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on January 01, 2021, 08:53:28 PM
Even if ship and barge traffic wasn't a factor, I have doubts a floating bridge (temporary or not) would be feasible across the Mississippi River near Memphis. The river is pretty wide and its currents are strong. Plus there is a considerable amount of debris large and small floating through it from time to time, like uprooted trees for instance. Lake Washington by Seattle has a large, floating pontoon bridges carrying a couple of major highways (like I-90). But Lake Washington is a pretty stable body of water compared to the Mississippi River.

If the I-40 & I-55 bridges were destroyed or rendered impassible due to an earthquake or other disaster all traffic in that area would be stuck having to use ferries to cross the river until one or more new bridges could be built. A lot of long distance traffic would be diverted a good distance to the nearest, functional bridge crossings. In a bad enough disaster could mean going as far as I-20 or I-70.

I have fished the Mississippi all my life. Whole trees can pop up from nowhere when it's a bit high. The idea of a floating bridge is insane. Oh the Corp would love to try a modern Mulberry Harbor but come on.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rte66man on January 02, 2021, 04:36:30 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on December 30, 2020, 04:11:39 PM
As I said earlier, the existing 71 year old I-55 bridge needs to be replaced. The I-40 crossing, aka the Hernando De Soto Bridge, was built in 1957 1975. It's six lanes wide with no shoulders; an adequate bridge for that crossing would sport 8 lanes as well as inner and outer shoulders.

FTFY
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: US71 on January 02, 2021, 07:05:31 PM
Quote from: Revive 755 on December 31, 2020, 11:30:16 PM
^ But if there was a major earthquake, would a temporary floating bridge or two across the Mississippi be unfeasible, possibly due to river currents or allowing barge traffic for relief efforts?

I thought the I-40 bridge retrofitted to resist earthquakes.  Then again, if you get a 6 or 7 the bridges may be your least concern.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bwana39 on January 03, 2021, 12:31:46 AM
Quote from: US71 on January 02, 2021, 07:05:31 PM
Quote from: Revive 755 on December 31, 2020, 11:30:16 PM
^ But if there was a major earthquake, would a temporary floating bridge or two across the Mississippi be unfeasible, possibly due to river currents or allowing barge traffic for relief efforts?

I thought the I-40 bridge retrofitted to resist earthquakes.  Then again, if you get a 6 or 7 the bridges may be your least concern.

The I-40 bridge was retrofitted, but I think the theme of the thread is that modern designed bridges would survive Armageddon and older ones would not. While the older(truss) bridges do tend to have certain points that if they fail, the entire bridge MIGHT fail, at the same time, I think we have a bigger worry in the concrete approaches and concrete  bridges on surrounding creeks and overpasses. The Bay bridge failed in one place. The Nimitz and Embarcadero Freeways were damaged far worse than the  Bay Bridge.  I think that cable stayed bridges MIGHT hold up better than the rigid trusses  that are there now, but maybe not. There is very limited earthquake exposure of cable stayed bridges outside the lab. While we have experience based data with trusses and true suspension bridges, there is still lots to learn about cable stayed bridges.

My take on Memphis is if the trusses are damaged beyond repair, the infrastructure leading to them will not be usable to get the traffic to the bridge that is out of service. Like US71 said, the bridges may be your least concern. (and that is just discussing the transportation woes.)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Wayward Memphian on January 11, 2021, 09:45:13 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on December 30, 2020, 04:11:39 PM
In a perfect world, with proper input of federal oversight and funding, the Memphis area could use four Mississippi River bridge crossings. Really, the federal government should be heavily involved and heavily invested in the Memphis area bridge crossings due to the major impact they have on the entirety of the Interstate highway system.

As I said earlier, the existing 71 year old I-55 bridge needs to be replaced. The I-40 crossing, aka the Hernando De Soto Bridge, was built in 1957. It's six lanes wide with no shoulders; an adequate bridge for that crossing would sport 8 lanes as well as inner and outer shoulders.

The other two Mississippi River crossings would involve I-269. The logical Southern crossing would start its approach in the vicinity of where MS-304 leaves I-69 to end at US-61. That's in the same general area as the Tunica casino resorts. A bridge crossing there followed by a freeway curving up to I-40 in Arkansas would provide a very effective Southern bypass of Memphis. And it would be a more direct path for Tunica tourists coming from Arkansas and points farther West. The road could work being signed as I-22. The Northern I-269 crossing would go from Millington, TN to Clarkedale, AR. The last NW quadrant of the I-269 outer loop could then curve down to I-40, meeting the SW quadrant of the outer loop.

Of course these bridges have nothing to do with the Great River Bridge farther South between McGehee, AR and Benoit, MS.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: msunat97 on January 15, 2021, 11:07:08 AM
The relatively new Highway 82 bridge in Greenville, MS could be an option to cross the river if the Memphis area was shutdown.  That would highlight the need for finishing the Greenville bypass.  However, a earthquake large enough to knockout the Memphis bridges might also do damage to the Helena & Greenville bridges as well.  There would be a ton of freight moving across I-20 & thru St. Louis in this scenario.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bwana39 on January 15, 2021, 11:59:40 AM
Quote from: msunat97 on January 15, 2021, 11:07:08 AM
The relatively new Highway 82 bridge in Greenville, MS could be an option to cross the river if the Memphis area was shutdown.  That would highlight the need for finishing the Greenville bypass.  However, a earthquake large enough to knockout the Memphis bridges might also do damage to the Helena & Greenville bridges as well.  There would be a ton of freight moving across I-20 & thru St. Louis in this scenario.

You are describing Armageddon if it is going to wreck bridges from Helena to the ones in Memphis.  The Greenville Bridge is supposedly earthquake resistant.  Resistant not earthquake-proof. I think the bridges across the Mississippi will be a secondary worry in the short-term.

The US-82 bridge is closer to Vicksburg than to Memphis.  The proposed great river bridge (I HATE the proposed location) itself is still 30 miles closer to Vicksburg than Memphis. (and only around 30 miles from the US-82 bridge.)

The need is for a new bridge in a new location located near Memphis. The best choice is near Tunica Lakes. By completing the loop to West Memphis, it gets the I-55 and I-22  through traffic out of Memphis proper. It leaves the Memphis and Arkansas Bridge for local traffic .  I think everyone can be on the same page for the overly narrow Memphis and Arkansas  bridge to have a dramatically lower traffic load. Whether a potential earthquake is part of the equation or not.

Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on January 15, 2021, 08:10:52 PM
^^^^^^^^^^^
If by chance a Mississippi River bridge at Tunica were to be built, the optimal designation for such, as well as a connector looping north to both I-40 and I-55, would be as a rerouted I-55.  This would obviate the need to deal with the old Memphis & Arkansas bridge as well as the Crump Blvd. cloverleaf.  Current I-55 north from I-269 to I-240 would be solely I-69 as would the current I-240 north to I-40 near downtown.  I-240 would replace I-55 over the M & A bridge to I-40 in W. Memphis. 

But all that probably won't happen in the near term for two simple reasons:  #1 -- Arkansas has multiple "plates" already piled up with Interstate projects (49, 57, 30 widening, etc.); scant room for any more of the same.  #2 -- MS is effectively broke -- at least in terms of major projects such as any connected with new Interstate mileage.  Unless there's room within a Biden transportation package for really substantial federal funding (I'm talking about the 90% level or even above) for such a project, it's all merely speculation at this point.   Such funding would also need to include reconstruction of the 55/69/269 interchange to provide multilane flyovers and ramp upgrades for the throughput of both I-55 and I-69.   

That being said -- the saving grace of a Tunica-area bridge is that while MSA's connected with greater Memphis would naturally be involved, TDOT and its Nashville handlers, who generally seem loath to provide more than scraps to the Memphis area, won't likely have a significant part in the process save some re-designation issues.     
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Wayward Memphian on January 17, 2021, 07:51:22 AM
We are into hypotheticals and some hate those a reroute of I-55 needs to happen at about Jericho is and run to near the Intermodal/Supersite near Lehi.

Arkansas 'could'  build the bridge and cross the Mississippi without leaving the state as a toll bridge without taking in to account any engineering aspects but it is the narrowest part of the river around. It would run over what was the gun club aspect of the former MGM Grand Casino
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bwana39 on January 17, 2021, 11:13:41 PM
Quote from: Wayward Memphian on January 17, 2021, 07:51:22 AM
We are into hypotheticals and some hate those a reroute of I-55 needs to happen at about Jericho is and run to near the Intermodal/Supersite near Lehi.

Arkansas 'could'  build the bridge and cross the Mississippi without leaving the state as a toll bridge without taking in to account any engineering aspects but it is the narrowest part of the river around. It would run over what was the gun club aspect of the former MGM Grand Casino

Yes, the space to do it is there. Probably a good place to build a bridge.    That said, Arkansas has a constitutional ban on toll roads and bridges.  The only way it gets built with tolls is if the tolls are collected in Mississippi or if it is a privately owned bridge.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on January 18, 2021, 06:54:22 PM
Can we get a Buc'ees on 269??? That place is the #### as a truck-stop! People who have seen them in Texas know about this place. There will be ones in Alabama and Georgia!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on January 18, 2021, 08:16:24 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on January 18, 2021, 06:54:22 PM
Can we get a Buc'ees on 269??? That place is the #### as a truck-stop! People who have seen them in Texas know about this place. There will be ones in Alabama and Georgia!

One small problem with Buc-ees: no trucks are allowed.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 18, 2021, 08:53:22 PM
Yep, that's right. No big rigs allowed at Buc-ee's

The Buc-ee's company has some ambitious expansion plans for the Deep South and Florida. A new location outside Birmingham on I-20 (Leeds) is opening this month. Buc-ee's is opening new locations in Daytona Beach and St Augustine this quarter. A store on I-95 in Florence, SC will open in 2022. They have a recently opened location in Warner Robbins, GA and another one in Calhoun, GA in the works. One location in Boerne, TX (near San Antonio) has been held up by upgrades to I-10. A third location in Alabama is proposed for Athens. A second location in South Carolina is proposed for Anderson County (on I-85).

Buc-ee's wants to build a big location in North Carolina near Raleigh by the Efland Station development (exit 161 on I-40/85). But they're facing some unexpected community resistence there. And there is a decent amount of blow-back happening in response to Buc-ee's first location outside of Texas: I-10 at the Baldwin Beach Express, the main road to Gulf Shores, AL. Apparently traffic is really bad at the I-10 exit and around the new Buc-ee's store.

Sadly, there are no signs Buc-ee's will build any of its huge stores in Oklahoma any time soon. I can think of several locations where Buc-ee's would do well. I think Buc-ee's needs to build a location in Amarillo just west of the US-287 merge into I-40.

Getting back to the topic of I-269 (and Buc-ee's), it might make sense to build a Buc-ee's super store along I-40 just East of the I-40/I-269 interchange. But in the Memphis area, I think it might be even better to build in West Memphis, AR along the short overlap of I-40 and I-55.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on January 19, 2021, 09:39:11 AM
Good 411 you just posted! A location in West Memphis would be Awesome! That area looks the same as it did 30 years ago!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Wayward Memphian on January 20, 2021, 01:57:04 PM
Quote from: bwana39 on January 17, 2021, 11:13:41 PM
Quote from: Wayward Memphian on January 17, 2021, 07:51:22 AM
We are into hypotheticals and some hate those a reroute of I-55 needs to happen at about Jericho is and run to near the Intermodal/Supersite near Lehi.

Arkansas 'could'  build the bridge and cross the Mississippi without leaving the state as a toll bridge without taking in to account any engineering aspects but it is the narrowest part of the river around. It would run over what was the gun club aspect of the former MGM Grand Casino

Yes, the space to do it is there. Probably a good place to build a bridge.    That said, Arkansas has a constitutional ban on toll roads and bridges.  The only way it gets built with tolls is if the tolls are collected in Mississippi or if it is a privately owned bridge.

As with anything in Arkansas, it is one vote away from being law when it comes to Amendments. Sell a Toll Bridge as a way to not get shot on I-240 in Memphis going to Pigeon Forge or the Redneck Riviera on vacation and it passes easily.

As for Buck'ees Wes Memphis along side the Casino and Alma Arkansas are no brainers.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 20, 2021, 05:35:42 PM
It's looks like there is quite a bit of open land on the West side of Southland Casino for a Buc-ee's location. The only bad thing about that spot is the two slip-style off ramps onto the frontage road are pretty early into the I-40/I-55 overlap. The last slip ramp is in front of the Southland Casino property. Then there are two on-ramps for the WB/NB I-40/I-55 main lanes. The off-ramp and on-ramp configuration would underscore the need for Buc-ee's to install a pretty substantial high rise sign. Probably something like the order of this Buc-ee's sign at TX-114/I-35W, but maybe even taller:
https://www.google.com/maps/@33.0245074,-97.2770506,3a,75y,187.41h,98.25t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1smpUbirNAWJxErmYpgjNDDg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192

There is also a good bit of open land along the South side of I-40/I-55 just East of the AR-77/Missouri St exit.

Alma, AR is more tricky. There is no exit to surface streets along I-40 between the current I-49 terminus and I-540. Not much develop-able land is available either. The first exit East of the I-49/I-40 interchange would be an optimal spot for a Buc-ee's, but all the land there is gobbled up by a mix of commercial businesses and homes. So they would be stuck having to build farther East on I-40. Or just choose another location in Arkansas. If it was my call I'd probably rather build farther North on I-49 somewhere between Springdale and Rogers.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on January 20, 2021, 10:06:29 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on January 20, 2021, 05:35:42 PM
It's looks like there is quite a bit of open land on the West side of Southland Casino for a Buc-ee's location. The only bad thing about that spot is the two slip-style off ramps onto the frontage road are pretty early into the I-40/I-55 overlap. The last slip ramp is in front of the Southland Casino property. Then there are two on-ramps for the WB/NB I-40/I-55 main lanes. The off-ramp and on-ramp configuration would underscore the need for Buc-ee's to install a pretty substantial high rise sign. Probably something like the order of this Buc-ee's sign at TX-114/I-35W, but maybe even taller:
https://www.google.com/maps/@33.0245074,-97.2770506,3a,75y,187.41h,98.25t/data=!3m6!1e1!3m4!1smpUbirNAWJxErmYpgjNDDg!2e0!7i16384!8i8192

There is also a good bit of open land along the South side of I-40/I-55 just East of the AR-77/Missouri St exit.

Alma, AR is more tricky. There is no exit to surface streets along I-40 between the current I-49 terminus and I-540. Not much develop-able land is available either. The first exit East of the I-49/I-40 interchange would be an optimal spot for a Buc-ee's, but all the land there is gobbled up by a mix of commercial businesses and homes. So they would be stuck having to build farther East on I-40. Or just choose another location in Arkansas. If it was my call I'd probably rather build farther North on I-49 somewhere between Springdale and Rogers.

Exits 58, 60, 69, 70 and 81 on I-49 in NWA are really the only exits until you get to the Bella Vista Bypass that something the size of a Buc-ee's could be built without getting further from the expressway than they want to be with the lack of access roads that NWA has outside of Fayetteville.  It would do fantastically up this way, but West Memphis would probably be a better bet to be built with 2 Interstates together with actual access roads before anything up here ever does.

Are there any actual plans to expand I-269 any further, or are we all just dreaming at this point?  I agree that an I-269 outer loop into Arkansas makes good sense, but until the 3 states come up with some sort of exploratory commission to push the feds to come up with the necessary congressional attention, I think it's dead in the water unless some sort of catastrophe mobilizes attention on the area.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 20, 2021, 10:24:22 PM
As far as I can tell there are no official plans for extending I-269 across the Mississippi River from either end in Millington, TN or Tunica, MS. But I-269 would be immensely more valuable to the Interstate system in that region if it was a complete outer loop.

Thru traffic on I-40 wouldn't have to drive very far out of the way using a complete I-269 outer loop by way of Millington since I-40 crosses I-269 near its Northeast corner. I-40 takes a pretty substantial angle in Memphis. The highway is running East-West in Arkansas but takes a more diagonal route getting into Tennessee.

I've already mentioned how Westbound I-40 traffic could use a complete I-269 outer loop as a shortcut to get to the resorts in Tunica or get more direct, 100% Interstate quality access to the I-22 corridor.

A complete I-269 outer loop would very likely spur a lot of commercial and residential development around Millington, Arlington and even Tunica. Add in an eventual I-69 corridor and the value of a full I-269 loop would increase further. The two very expensive Mississippi River bridges needed for a complete I-269 loop would probably pay themselves many times over via the regional economic benefit. But to get the job done and get three states onto the same page it will require heavy federal involvement (and LOTS of federal funding).
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bwana39 on January 21, 2021, 12:28:01 AM
I don't see any realistic way toward two bridges in the Memphis area. Frankly, I see one new bridge maximum on the lower Mississippi until you get to the in-state Louisiana parts of the river.

SO if Memphis gets any bridge it will have to be the I-69 bridge. I see a federal priority for the I-69 corridor and Tennessee having zero priority for anything else in Western Tennessee.

While lots of people see a huge need for two new bridges in metro Memphis, I just do not see it happening in the next thirty years.  If the feds would prioritize the I-69 corridor and make it palatable to cross the White and Arkansas rivers, a new crossing south of Memphis is the better choice for the national highway grid. A less expensive choice for Mississippi. and realistically a more useful route for Arkansans outside Desha and Arkansas Counties.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Wayward Memphian on January 21, 2021, 03:43:52 PM
I thought I had posted this but guess I didn't.

I have theorized about this elsewhere and there is zero chance it happens and it involves a new Southern Memphis Bridge.

When Disney bought Marvel, Universal Studios Florida rights to certain Marvel properties were Grandfathered in. Disney in essence was forbidden to use those properties for rides east of the Mississippi River. Outside of Gardians of the Galaxy under development in Epcot(which Disney brought to life from Marvel Obscurity. This has held true.

I theorized(years ago) that Ark, Tenn and Miss. Combine forces to court a Disney Theme Park based on Marvel. A new Southern Bridge at Tunica was the key.. Placing the Theme Park in Ark gets past the east of the Mississippi rule.

Like outside of sleepy Orlando in the late 60s, there's tons of undeveloped land on the Arkansas side for a park.

When I first was yammering about this. Harrah's had just closed and there was a great golf course and two big old hotels sitting vacant. I summized Disney should buy it up and even add timeshares to it. Mississippi had put some effort into a landing on the River. That would be where Disney would expand their successful Ocean cruises into River Cruising. I know, how Walt and Steamboat Willy would that be right?

The Memphis angle would be additional stops by the River boats either right after the boats left Tunica or the night before they docked at Tunica on routes up and down the rive, one ways and r/ts. MEM would also benefit from the increased air traffic. It just so happens that Disney Ocean cruise is now using New Orleans as a port. Talk about add ons each way and pre covid there was a boom in river cruising.

I also theorized that Disney could build the theme park it wanted outside of DC with a highly American to it. That would seem out of the question now. But... it could always build a second park in time.

The bridge would make it all feasible, add a light rail aspect to connect the resort and port area on the Miss side with the park and possible resort areas on the Arkansas side. Maybe even extend the light rail to MEM.

They could have also pitched incentives to locate filming and production there much like what you have seen done in ATL.

With so  many of Disney attractions being enclosed, weather and year aroundness should not be an issue. See Paris and Tokyo.

Sounded great in my head, still does.

Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on January 21, 2021, 07:24:04 PM
That last Post was on point! I totally agree, IMO, other than Fed Ex Expansion and the Casinos (which many lost revenue because of Covid) That area is in need of any additional financial revenue and businesses. I didn't even think about the entertainment/film industry. GA gives tax writeoffs and other incentives to film industries who relocate to GA
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 21, 2021, 08:06:46 PM
I like the idea of a strictly Marvel-themed amusement resort. It could be somewhat more grown-up place for bigger kids and adults. We're talking bigger, faster, more scary thrill rides that can give the industry leading roller coasters at Cedar Point some real competition. Combine that with the extra levels of detail Disney tends to apply to attractions at Disneyland and Disney World. Such a park could be a big hit. It might be tricky building state of the art roller coaster structures on soft low lands new the Mississippi River, but not impossible.

One potential knock against such a park: year 'round weather. That's one of the major reasons why Disneyland is located in metro LA and Disney World is down in the middle of Florida. Both parks can operate much of the year or all year long since winter in both places is pretty mild. Most amusement parks elsewhere in the US are open only in warm weather months, which greatly reduces total potential revenue. The region around Memphis does get cold snaps during the winter and even snow storms. Summer weather is usually hot and really humid.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ethanhopkin14 on January 22, 2021, 10:31:25 AM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on January 21, 2021, 08:06:46 PM
I like the idea of a strictly Marvel-themed amusement resort. It could be somewhat more grown-up place for bigger kids and adults. We're talking bigger, faster, more scary thrill rides that can give the industry leading roller coasters at Cedar Point some real competition. Combine that with the extra levels of detail Disney tends to apply to attractions at Disneyland and Disney World. Such a park could be a big hit. It might be tricky building state of the art roller coaster structures on soft low lands new the Mississippi River, but not impossible.

One potential knock against such a park: year 'round weather. That's one of the major reasons why Disneyland is located in metro LA and Disney World is down in the middle of Florida. Both parks can operate much of the year or all year long since winter in both places is pretty mild. Most amusement parks elsewhere in the US are open only in warm weather months, which greatly reduces total potential revenue. The region around Memphis does get cold snaps during the winter and even snow storms. Summer weather is usually hot and really humid.

This whole conversation reminds me of when Austin was approached to be the site of another Disneyland in the 80s, because it was halfway between the existing two. Typical to Austin, they turned it down because it would create jobs, be too good for the economy and too much fun.  Sigh
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bwana39 on January 22, 2021, 10:55:33 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on January 21, 2021, 07:24:04 PM
That last Post was on point! I totally agree, IMO, other than Fed Ex Expansion and the Casinos (which many lost revenue because of Covid) That area is in need of any additional financial revenue and businesses. I didn't even think about the entertainment/film industry. GA gives tax writeoffs and other incentives to film industries who relocate to GA

The increased accessibility would help the Mississippi casinos.  The land based casino in West Memphis has surely put a damper on the more remote facilities in Tunica County. The access from Arkansas would help balance the playing field.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Wayward Memphian on January 22, 2021, 02:28:34 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on January 21, 2021, 08:06:46 PM
I like the idea of a strictly Marvel-themed amusement resort. It could be somewhat more grown-up place for bigger kids and adults. We're talking bigger, faster, more scary thrill rides that can give the industry leading roller coasters at Cedar Point some real competition. Combine that with the extra levels of detail Disney tends to apply to attractions at Disneyland and Disney World. Such a park could be a big hit. It might be tricky building state of the art roller coaster structures on soft low lands new the Mississippi River, but not impossible.

One potential knock against such a park: year 'round weather. That's one of the major reasons why Disneyland is located in metro LA and Disney World is down in the middle of Florida. Both parks can operate much of the year or all year long since winter in both places is pretty mild. Most amusement parks elsewhere in the US are open only in warm weather months, which greatly reduces total potential revenue. The region around Memphis does get cold snaps during the winter and even snow storms. Summer weather is usually hot and really humid.

They are all over the sinkhole state.

Orlando is hot humid snd wet in the summer, I would say more so.

It snows at Disneyland Paris and Tokyo, They are year round parks. Disney overcomes this. Other parks are overcoming this as well. They have discovered gold in the seasons of Fall and Christmas. I give you Silver Dollar City. Christmas is their busiest time of the year. They have extended it to New Years.  They open up in mid March after a 2 months shut down. Six Flags are going most of the year now. San Antonio has gone year round.

Like I said Disney builds an enormous amount of enclosed rides vs. exposured rides.

Phantasialand in Germany has made their Wintertrum thing a huge success along with integrating lodging into the park itself. See Europe Park as well.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Wayward Memphian on January 22, 2021, 02:34:51 PM
Quote from: bwana39 on January 22, 2021, 10:55:33 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on January 21, 2021, 07:24:04 PM
That last Post was on point! I totally agree, IMO, other than Fed Ex Expansion and the Casinos (which many lost revenue because of Covid) That area is in need of any additional financial revenue and businesses. I didn't even think about the entertainment/film industry. GA gives tax writeoffs and other incentives to film industries who relocate to GA

The increased accessibility would help the Mississippi casinos.  The land based casino in West Memphis has surely put a damper on the more remote facilities in Tunica County. The access from Arkansas would help balance the playing field.


What is forgotten is that this idea of a Southern bridge would connect to I 40 very near the former Nascar Track near Lehi. The banking is still visible today it had two long straighways with tight corners. Owner refused to pave it and lost the race. Easily discernable on Google Earth.

But back to Disney, seasons mean nothing to them now.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: msunat97 on January 23, 2021, 12:32:41 PM
Quote from: Wayward Memphian on January 22, 2021, 02:34:51 PM
Quote from: bwana39 on January 22, 2021, 10:55:33 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on January 21, 2021, 07:24:04 PM
That last Post was on point! I totally agree, IMO, other than Fed Ex Expansion and the Casinos (which many lost revenue because of Covid) That area is in need of any additional financial revenue and businesses. I didn't even think about the entertainment/film industry. GA gives tax writeoffs and other incentives to film industries who relocate to GA

The increased accessibility would help the Mississippi casinos.  The land based casino in West Memphis has surely put a damper on the more remote facilities in Tunica County. The access from Arkansas would help balance the playing field.


What is forgotten is that this idea of a Southern bridge would connect to I 40 very near the former Nascar Track near Lehi. The banking is still visible today it had two long straighways with tight corners. Owner refused to pave it and lost the race. Easily discernable on Google Earth.

But back to Disney, seasons mean nothing to them now.

I never knew that racetrack was there.  It would be nice to be able to skip around Memphis on I-40 avoid the traffic congestion.  Too bad it'll never happen
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on January 23, 2021, 03:23:20 PM
^^^^^^^^^^
Greater Memphis has the ill fortune to be located in the corner of a state that would rather pretend it's not terribly important (or even there!), adjacent to a state that perennially has no money, and across the river from a state juggling several dozen projects that receive higher priority.  For a project such as an Interstate-grade high-clearance bridge that requires everyone's ducks to be in a row, the prospects are dim without a sizeable injection of federal funding.  Maybe someone with a bit of pull from the area can mention the need for an additional bridge (or even nag a bit about it) when Buttigieg and associates are cobbling up their initial infrastructure package.  Odds are it won't happen without that sort of assistance.   
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Wayward Memphian on January 23, 2021, 09:35:35 PM
Quote from: msunat97 on January 23, 2021, 12:32:41 PM
Quote from: Wayward Memphian on January 22, 2021, 02:34:51 PM
Quote from: bwana39 on January 22, 2021, 10:55:33 AM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on January 21, 2021, 07:24:04 PM
That last Post was on point! I totally agree, IMO, other than Fed Ex Expansion and the Casinos (which many lost revenue because of Covid) That area is in need of any additional financial revenue and businesses. I didn't even think about the entertainment/film industry. GA gives tax writeoffs and other incentives to film industries who relocate to GA

The increased accessibility would help the Mississippi casinos.  The land based casino in West Memphis has surely put a damper on the more remote facilities in Tunica County. The access from Arkansas would help balance the playing field.


What is forgotten is that this idea of a Southern bridge would connect to I 40 very near the former Nascar Track near Lehi. The banking is still visible today it had two long straighways with tight corners. Owner refused to pave it and lost the race. Easily discernable on Google Earth.

But back to Disney, seasons mean nothing to them now.

I never knew that racetrack was there.  It would be nice to be able to skip around Memphis on I-40 avoid the traffic congestion.  Too bad it'll never happen

It was unique and would still be today. It was basically two long drag races into high banked half oval  turns.

https://www.macsmotorcitygarage.com/nascars-lost-dirt-superspeedway/
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: capt.ron on August 10, 2021, 06:44:45 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on January 20, 2021, 10:24:22 PM
As far as I can tell there are no official plans for extending I-269 across the Mississippi River from either end in Millington, TN or Tunica, MS. But I-269 would be immensely more valuable to the Interstate system in that region if it was a complete outer loop.

Thru traffic on I-40 wouldn't have to drive very far out of the way using a complete I-269 outer loop by way of Millington since I-40 crosses I-269 near its Northeast corner. I-40 takes a pretty substantial angle in Memphis. The highway is running East-West in Arkansas but takes a more diagonal route getting into Tennessee.

I've already mentioned how Westbound I-40 traffic could use a complete I-269 outer loop as a shortcut to get to the resorts in Tunica or get more direct, 100% Interstate quality access to the I-22 corridor.

A complete I-269 outer loop would very likely spur a lot of commercial and residential development around Millington, Arlington and even Tunica. Add in an eventual I-69 corridor and the value of a full I-269 loop would increase further. The two very expensive Mississippi River bridges needed for a complete I-269 loop would probably pay themselves many times over via the regional economic benefit. But to get the job done and get three states onto the same page it will require heavy federal involvement (and LOTS of federal funding).
At the very least, I can see a southern / western extension of I-269 that runs from existing I-69 / MS 304 westward across the Mississippi River and then curve north towards I-40 right around where AR 149 connects at. I have a map drawn (which puts it into fictional territory) of my idea of an extension of I-269.
https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1O8WoruMjrY-N2QZRW4oqLE7SqlfRdlDh&usp=sharing (https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1O8WoruMjrY-N2QZRW4oqLE7SqlfRdlDh&usp=sharing)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: armadillo speedbump on August 11, 2021, 01:15:48 PM
Quote from: sparker on January 23, 2021, 03:23:20 PM
Greater Memphis has the ill fortune to be located in the corner of a state that would rather pretend it's not terribly important (or even there!)

Strongly disagree.  Corrupt Memphis politics may always cry that to try and extort more money, but the metro has easily the best road and freeway network in TN.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: GreenLanternCorps on August 11, 2021, 02:53:56 PM
Quote from: armadillo speedbump on August 11, 2021, 01:15:48 PM
Quote from: sparker on January 23, 2021, 03:23:20 PM
Greater Memphis has the ill fortune to be located in the corner of a state that would rather pretend it's not terribly important (or even there!)

Strongly disagree.  Corrupt Memphis politics may always cry that to try and extort more money, but the metro has easily the best road and freeway network in TN.

Well except for the lack of bridges.  I will never figure out why a metro the size of Memphis only has two bridges across the Mississippi when St. Louis has eight and the Quad Cities have five.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: I-55 on August 11, 2021, 04:59:14 PM
Quote from: GreenLanternCorps on August 11, 2021, 02:53:56 PM
Quote from: armadillo speedbump on August 11, 2021, 01:15:48 PM
Quote from: sparker on January 23, 2021, 03:23:20 PM
Greater Memphis has the ill fortune to be located in the corner of a state that would rather pretend it's not terribly important (or even there!)

Strongly disagree.  Corrupt Memphis politics may always cry that to try and extort more money, but the metro has easily the best road and freeway network in TN.

Well except for the lack of bridges.  I will never figure out why a metro the size of Memphis only has two bridges across the Mississippi when St. Louis has eight and the Quad Cities have five.

The only argument I can think of is that there is a significant lack of development on the Arkansas side to build a bridge to, but spurring development very well may be an argument to build more bridges.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: armadillo speedbump on August 11, 2021, 05:53:23 PM
Yes, only 50,000 of the Memphis metro's 1.35 million live on the AR side (less than 4%).  Though another bridge isn't likely to change that very much. 

And while a much larger percentage of St. Louis' population is on the IL side, it is also spread out a lot more, Columbia to western Alton is over 35 miles.  Further, the St. Louis CSA is almost 2.5 times as big as the Memphis CSA.

Quad Cities are smaller, but the river is not near as wide, they could build cheaper lower or swing bridges instead of high clearance, shorter spans, and the population is also pretty evenly split between both sides.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikeTheActuary on August 11, 2021, 08:34:42 PM
Another consideration when comparing Memphis to St. Louis or the Quad Cities...look at how broad the river + floodplain is at Memphis vs either of those places.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on August 11, 2021, 08:42:59 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on August 11, 2021, 08:34:42 PM
Another consideration when comparing Memphis to St. Louis or the Quad Cities...look at how broad the river + floodplain is at Memphis vs either of those places.

True -- everything below the Ohio River confluence involves a floodplain minimally 2-3 miles across -- often up to 9-10; more if oxbows are present.  That's one of the logistical/engineering issues confronting the proposed I-69 Dean/Great River bridge -- and that's even a bit worse, with the Arkansas River's influx slightly north of the bridge location. 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on August 12, 2021, 08:12:36 AM
Quote from: sparker on August 11, 2021, 08:42:59 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on August 11, 2021, 08:34:42 PM
Another consideration when comparing Memphis to St. Louis or the Quad Cities...look at how broad the river + floodplain is at Memphis vs either of those places.

True -- everything below the Ohio River confluence involves a floodplain minimally 2-3 miles across -- often up to 9-10; more if oxbows are present.  That's one of the logistical/engineering issues confronting the proposed I-69 Dean/Great River bridge -- and that's even a bit worse, with the Arkansas River's influx slightly north of the bridge location.

There's an oxbow or two between Memphis and Greenville  ;-)
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on August 12, 2021, 09:19:25 AM
OT, man a Buc'ees would look good in all that undeveloped area in NW Mississippi between IH 55 and IH 22. Those gas stations bring plenty of jobs...
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: sparker on August 12, 2021, 12:46:14 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on August 12, 2021, 08:12:36 AM
Quote from: sparker on August 11, 2021, 08:42:59 PM
Quote from: MikeTheActuary on August 11, 2021, 08:34:42 PM
Another consideration when comparing Memphis to St. Louis or the Quad Cities...look at how broad the river + floodplain is at Memphis vs either of those places.

True -- everything below the Ohio River confluence involves a floodplain minimally 2-3 miles across -- often up to 9-10; more if oxbows are present.  That's one of the logistical/engineering issues confronting the proposed I-69 Dean/Great River bridge -- and that's even a bit worse, with the Arkansas River's influx slightly north of the bridge location.

There's an oxbow or two between Memphis and Greenville  ;-)

More like about 20!  :nod: Would have been more if the river hadn't straightlined itself through several of them (generally the ones where the state line follows the former oxbow, now an isolated lake, rather than the current main river channel).  A constant process; one sped up during major flood events (such as the "big one" of 1993). 
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: I-55 on August 12, 2021, 01:09:38 PM
Quote from: Tomahawkin on August 12, 2021, 09:19:25 AM
OT, man a Buc'ees would look good in all that undeveloped area in NW Mississippi between IH 55 and IH 22. Those gas stations bring plenty of jobs...

If a Buc'ees goes in anywhere it'd be on I-40 in AR. Much more traffic there than I-55, 22 or 269. Now if 269 crossed the river and ended at I-40, that'd be a good location.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on August 12, 2021, 02:21:56 PM
One of those in the West Memphis, Forrest City area, I would have no problem with, That is one of the more depressed areas in the south, IMO
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: CoreySamson on August 13, 2021, 09:17:35 PM
I think West Memphis would be the best spot (it looks like there's tons of space for development near the Southland Casino, that would be a good spot, heck, there's even frontage roads like in Texas right there), as it would catch both I-40 and I-55 traffic. Putting it further west I think kinda goes against Buc-ee's mission as a lot of that I-40 traffic is trucks, which Buc-ee's does not allow. That being said, one could totally work at the I-40/AR-1 interchange outside Forrest City.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on August 14, 2021, 05:39:12 PM
That is a damn good idea! I forgot about the casino over there. That stretch of IH 40/55 has been run down for 4+ decades. That area needs improvement in the worse way!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on December 21, 2021, 10:31:28 AM
Just heard that a Whataburger will be opening next summer in Southaven, off Goodman Road and Getwell! Can't wait for this! Hopefully a Bucee's is Built off of 269 in the upcoming years. Those facilities bring lots of jobs to the local area, IMO.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Marc on December 21, 2021, 12:19:24 PM
Quote from: CoreySamson on August 13, 2021, 09:17:35 PM
I think West Memphis would be the best spot.
Lots of crime in West Memphis though. I wouldn't be stopping there, even if there was a Buc-ee's.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: MikieTimT on December 23, 2021, 11:53:59 PM
Quote from: Marc on December 21, 2021, 12:19:24 PM
Quote from: CoreySamson on August 13, 2021, 09:17:35 PM
I think West Memphis would be the best spot.
Lots of crime in West Memphis though. I wouldn't be stopping there, even if there was a Buc-ee's.

Memphis will eventually get a 3rd bridge south of the I-55 bridge for an outer bypass.  Wherever that ties back into I-40 west of/at Lehi is where something like that would likely come to pass.  Everyone's just holding their breath to see where they'll eventually build the 3rd bridge.  Memphis just cannot be ignored in perpetuity, although I certainly avoid it like the plague.  Took I-530/US-65 to Lake Village and popped over to US-61 down to Jackson to avoid Memphis going down to the Pascagoula area to visit my snowbirding folks for an early Christmas, and came back I-10/I-12/US-190/I-49/US-71/I-49 to keep from driving back with the sun in my eyes.  Couple of good 100+ mile middle stretches both ways to get my 14 year old son some practice behind the wheel now that he's 14 and has his instruction permit after just passing his written test this past week.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: CoolAngrybirdsrio4 on December 25, 2021, 01:01:56 AM
Quote from: MikieTimT on December 23, 2021, 11:53:59 PM
Quote from: Marc on December 21, 2021, 12:19:24 PM
Quote from: CoreySamson on August 13, 2021, 09:17:35 PM
I think West Memphis would be the best spot.
Lots of crime in West Memphis though. I wouldn't be stopping there, even if there was a Buc-ee's.

Memphis will eventually get a 3rd bridge south of the I-55 bridge for an outer bypass.  Wherever that ties back into I-40 west of/at Lehi is where something like that would likely come to pass.  Everyone's just holding their breath to see where they'll eventually build the 3rd bridge.  Memphis just cannot be ignored in perpetuity, although I certainly avoid it like the plague.  Took I-530/US-65 to Lake Village and popped over to US-61 down to Jackson to avoid Memphis going down to the Pascagoula area to visit my snowbirding folks for an early Christmas, and came back I-10/I-12/US-190/I-49/US-71/I-49 to keep from driving back with the sun in my eyes.  Couple of good 100+ mile middle stretches both ways to get my 14 year old son some practice behind the wheel now that he's 14 and has his instruction permit after just passing his written test this past week.

Only if I-269 (currently TN 385) will get extended from I-69 to I-55 eventually
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: codyg1985 on December 27, 2021, 01:16:07 PM
Quote from: MikieTimT on December 23, 2021, 11:53:59 PM
Quote from: Marc on December 21, 2021, 12:19:24 PM
Quote from: CoreySamson on August 13, 2021, 09:17:35 PM
I think West Memphis would be the best spot.
Lots of crime in West Memphis though. I wouldn't be stopping there, even if there was a Buc-ee's.

Memphis will eventually get a 3rd bridge south of the I-55 bridge for an outer bypass.  Wherever that ties back into I-40 west of/at Lehi is where something like that would likely come to pass.  Everyone's just holding their breath to see where they'll eventually build the 3rd bridge.  Memphis just cannot be ignored in perpetuity, although I certainly avoid it like the plague.

I don't see it happening unless a major infusion of federal cash comes in, and MS and AR (and/or TN) work together to make it happen. Planning isn't anywhere near far enough to qualify for funding from the infrastructure bill.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on January 22, 2023, 07:47:37 PM
Drove to 269 a week ago. For the Love... Can we get a Truck stop on 269 between IH 22 and IH 55??? A Bucees would go good there because it would bring jobs. I'm guessing that there already has been local opposition to any kind of truck stop along that corridor? The Bucees outside of Birmingham is booming. I was hoping that the government in NW Mississippi would take notes..
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on January 22, 2023, 09:42:58 PM
Buc-ee's appears to be very picky at choosing locations for their super-sized convenience stores. With that being said they do have a decent number of future stores in the works or under construction.

A lawsuit was finally settled over some land on the East side of Amarillo near the I-40/US-287 split. Buc-ee's may break ground on that location sometime in March. Construction is underway for the first Buc-ee's location in Colorado, off I-25 Exit 252 (CR-48/CO-60). Buc-ee's also broke ground on its first Missouri location, off I-44 in Springfield. Sevierville, TN will be home to the largest Buc-ee's location when that 74,000 square foot store opens later this year. But Buc-ee's has a slightly larger one in the works to replace an existing location in Luling, TX.

I don't think I-269 has enough development yet along or near its loop to attract a Buc-ee's location. Perhaps if there were more casino/resorts in Tunica AND if I-269 (or I-22) was extended across the Mississippi River then that area along I-269 between I-55 and I-22 would be more attractive. For the time being if a Buc-ee's gets built in the Memphis region it would likely be built next to I-40 either East or West of the city.

I wonder if Buc-ee's management is deliberately overlooking some really obvious potential locations due to some sort of axe to grind. There appear to be no plans at all for Buc-ee's to build in Oklahoma. That's despite OKC being a major hub city for the Interstate highway system.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: rte66man on February 04, 2023, 03:21:18 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on January 22, 2023, 09:42:58 PM
Buc-ee's appears to be very picky at choosing locations for their super-sized convenience stores. With that being said they do have a decent number of future stores in the works or under construction.

I wonder if Buc-ee's management is deliberately overlooking some really obvious potential locations due to some sort of axe to grind. There appear to be no plans at all for Buc-ee's to build in Oklahoma. That's despite OKC being a major hub city for the Interstate highway system.

I'm beginning to suspect the same thing. A Buc-ees on 35 by Riverwind would kill it.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on February 04, 2023, 09:35:51 PM
Oh yeah. A Buc-ee's location on a corner of I-35 and OK-9 near Riverwind Casino would do really well. It might even tip the scales enough to get ODOT to convert that 4-lane segment of OK-9 between the H.E. Bailey Turnpike extension and I-35 into a proper freeway. The trick is getting the property needed. There is a big tract of farm land next door to Riverwind. For all I know it could be trust land. Tribes don't like selling land to other commercial developers.

A Buc-ee's next to I-40 on the West side of Yukon would do big business. There's a couple spots along I-35 near Frontier City that would be great too.

Buc-ee's is leaving money on the table by not expanding into Oklahoma. I've said the same thing about In-N-Out Burger -which still appears to have zero plans on expanding into Oklahoma, even though its Fort Worth distribution center can cover much of the Sooner State. In-N-Out is expanding into Colorado and now there's word they'll build a new "Eastern Territory Office" in Franklin, TN to seed new locations in Tennessee later this decade.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Tomahawkin on February 04, 2023, 10:09:33 PM
Yes, In and Out is confirmed to have a HQ office in Franklin in 2024. Hopefully they will be opening locations in Tennessee starting in 2025. If I can't have a Buc'ees along 269, I will settle for a In and Out.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bwana39 on February 05, 2023, 12:35:03 AM
On the Buc-ees issue, it boils down to what kind of tax abatements and infrastructure upgrades the local community will give them .

If they won't play, Buc-ees aren't going to build.

There are two issues the community has to consider. First if the sales taxes generated will offset the property tax abatement. Secondly if there is an alternate development for the location that might generate the same or higher overall income from all the tax sources combined.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on February 05, 2023, 12:37:22 PM
Quote from: bwana39On the Buc-ees issue, it boils down to what kind of tax abatements and infrastructure upgrades the local community will give them.

Various cities in Oklahoma do those kinds of deals all the time with other developers.

Much of downtown Lawton has been turned into a TIF district in an attempt to get more development to take place downtown. The effort hasn't been able to gain very much traction due to other problems like outdated overlay district rules; the city is finally starting to try to pull its head out of its ass on that point. Their efforts at "downtown redevelopment" need a lot more focus rather than a half-assed approach.

Buc-ee's could probably get some sweetheart deal on taxes and other issue with any number of location spots in Oklahoma. I think some other issue is present. There is the whole Texas vs Oklahoma thing, mainly with college sports. But I wouldn't put it past some business people carrying that rivalry to where they decide to build new locations. Buc-ee's founder, Arch Aplin III is from Texas and attended Texas A&M. He could have a never-in-Oklahoma mantra for Buc-ee's.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: bwana39 on February 05, 2023, 11:57:35 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on February 05, 2023, 12:37:22 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on February 05, 2023, 12:37:22 PM
Valero's Corner Stores quote=bwana39]On the Buc-ees issue, it boils down to what kind of tax abatements and infrastructure upgrades the local community will give them.

Various cities in Oklahoma do those kinds of deals all the time with other developers.

Much of downtown Lawton has been turned into a TIF district in an attempt to get more development to take place downtown. The effort hasn't been able to gain very much traction due to other problems like outdated overlay district rules; the city is finally starting to try to pull its head out of its ass on that point. Their efforts at "downtown redevelopment" need a lot more focus rather than a half-assed approach.

Buc-ee's could probably get some sweetheart deal on taxes and other issue with any number of location spots in Oklahoma. I think some other issue is present. There is the whole Texas vs Oklahoma thing, mainly with college sports. But I wouldn't put it past some business people carrying that rivalry to where they decide to build new locations. Buc-ee's founder, Arch Aplin III is from Texas and attended Texas A&M. He could have a never-in-Oklahoma mantra for Buc-ee's.

Texas based chains seem to avoid Oklahoma period. Brookshire's had ample opportunity within the common range of its Tyler based service area and did not. When Bealls was based in Jacksonville it never expanded that direction. (And did not at all until Stage Stores merged with Oklahoma Based  CR Anthony & company in 1997.) Valero Corner Stores did not do Oklahoma. Even EZ Mart eventually sold their Oklahoma stores to Circle K.

Texas companies pretty much avoid Oklahoma.  Buc-ees may have the same reason(s) for avoiding it as well.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on February 06, 2023, 10:29:22 PM
Lots of Texas-based companies (including restaurant chains) have locations in Oklahoma. Whataburger is a popular Texas-based chain that comes to mind. They're based in San Antonio, yet they have 35 stores in Oklahoma. Some of my friends and relatives prefer Whataburger to In-N-Out. They recently re-entered the Colorado market. Whataburger's drive thru service is painfully slow though. That's one area where In-N-Out absolutely kills it.

I've heard rumors that one or more Oklahoma-based convenience store chains (such as OnCue) have some sort of deal with Buc-ee's to not build any locations in Oklahoma. I think the idea is kind of ridiculous, but it goes right along with other rumors of in-state deals between rival convenience store chains to not build in each other's back yard. There's no OnCue locations in or near Lawton; maybe they made a deal with EZ-GO. Most of EZ-GO's regular neighborhood stores are in Lawton. They operate several turnpike locations across Oklahoma and a few in Kansas.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: westerninterloper on February 06, 2023, 10:36:03 PM
Quote from: bwana39 on February 05, 2023, 11:57:35 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on February 05, 2023, 12:37:22 PM
Valero's Corner Stores quote=bwana39]On the Buc-ees issue, it boils down to what kind of tax abatements and infrastructure upgrades the local community will give them.

Various cities in Oklahoma do those kinds of deals all the time with other developers.

Much of downtown Lawton has been turned into a TIF district in an attempt to get more development to take place downtown. The effort hasn't been able to gain very much traction due to other problems like outdated overlay district rules; the city is finally starting to try to pull its head out of its ass on that point. Their efforts at "downtown redevelopment" need a lot more focus rather than a half-assed approach.

Buc-ee's could probably get some sweetheart deal on taxes and other issue with any number of location spots in Oklahoma. I think some other issue is present. There is the whole Texas vs Oklahoma thing, mainly with college sports. But I wouldn't put it past some business people carrying that rivalry to where they decide to build new locations. Buc-ee's founder, Arch Aplin III is from Texas and attended Texas A&M. He could have a never-in-Oklahoma mantra for Buc-ee's.

Texas based chains seem to avoid Oklahoma period. Brookshire's had ample opportunity within the common range of its Tyler based service area and did not. When Bealls was based in Jacksonville it never expanded that direction. (And did not at all until Stage Stores merged with Oklahoma Based  CR Anthony & company in 1997.) Valero Corner Stores did not do Oklahoma. Even EZ Mart eventually sold their Oklahoma stores to Circle K.

Texas companies pretty much avoid Oklahoma.  Buc-ees may have the same reason(s) for avoiding it as well.
[/quote] 

College sports rivalries won't stop anyone from making a business deal. If you think about it, the states that have some of the most heated rivalries - TX and OK; OH and MI, have very very closely connected economies. The rivalries are hot because the people work together all the time.
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: ethanhopkin14 on February 07, 2023, 02:06:46 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on February 06, 2023, 10:29:22 PM
Whataburger's drive thru service is painfully slow though.

You haven't lived until you fell asleep in your car in a Wataburger drive through at 1:00 AM!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: triplemultiplex on February 07, 2023, 04:01:05 PM
Quote from: Bobby5280 on February 05, 2023, 12:37:22 PM
Much of downtown Lawton has been turned into a TIF district in an attempt to get more development to take place downtown. The effort hasn't been able to gain very much traction due to other problems like outdated overlay district rules; the city is finally starting to try to pull its head out of its ass on that point. Their efforts at "downtown redevelopment" need a lot more focus rather than a half-assed approach.

In retrospect, Lawton really fumbled when they hollowed out their downtown to build a suburban shopping mall.  It's so out of place.  They didn't even try and put the mall in one corner of the superblock so at least part of it would still feel integrated with the rest of the city.  Instead, it's like an island surrounded by a moat, as if they were trying to make a more defensible position in case of a zombie attack.  Clear shots in all directions across the parking moat.

Downtown malls in mid-sized and small cities were a good attempt to have your cake and eat it to.  Bring folks into downtown, but still give them the mall rat experience they love.  It's all about the execution, though.  The nearest mall to me growing up was a downtown mall and they did an okay job.  They used parking ramps to reduce the footprint and had a street-facing side of the mall.  It was nice that at least one entrance didn't face an ocean of parking. 

Lawton, though; good lord.  Let's level 12 square blocks for a new shopping mall and see if that works!
Title: Re: Interstate 269
Post by: Bobby5280 on February 07, 2023, 11:05:28 PM
In retrospect it's easy to see why Lawton's town leaders chose to build Central Mall where they did and when they did.

Back in the early 1970's downtown Lawton was very much NOT a family friendly place. Some older guys I know who hit drinking age during that time thought Lawton's downtown was the greatest place ever. There were all kinds of bars, night clubs, venues with live music, etc. But there was also a lot of open prostitution, drug dealing, theaters playing porn and lots of violence. In 1973 Lawton hit a new record for homicides (18 that year, which was a lot for an Army town with considerably less than 100,000 people).

The very first indoor shopping malls were built in the 1950's, but the template for indoor shopping mall design wasn't perfected until the 1970's. Northeast Mall in the Fort Worth suburb of Hurst opened in 1971. That was one of the inspirations for Central Mall in Lawton. City leaders figured they could bulldoze the 12 most seedy blocks in downtown Lawton and replace it with a modern, family-friendly indoor shopping center.

In retrospect the ploy didn't work. They tried applying a cosmetic solution to a people problem. The crime and various seedy enterprises simply relocated to other parts of town.

I moved to Lawton in the 1990's and back then there was a lot of topless bars and massage parlors scattered around different parts of town. The old downtown area was stone dead after dark (and still is). They've changed city codes enough that there's no more rub-and-tug style massage parlors or titty bars left in town. We're down to one remaining topless bar outside of city limits, West of town. Lots of other regular bars and night clubs have closed. I think a lot of younger adults are just not meeting up in person like they did in the past. They're connecting more thru their phones, gaming consoles and computers. It's probably one big reason why birth rates are plummeting. People are far more fickle when they're looking at online photos and swiping left or right.

Normally an indoor mall would be built near a major intersection next to an Interstate highway. They didn't do that with Central Mall here. They just plopped it in the middle of downtown with no fast way to get there. There's so many layers of stop signs and stop lights in every direction. Even back in the 1970's more business in Lawton was gravitating to locations along Cache Road, well away from the downtown area. People with money were building new homes farther East and West of downtown. The H.E. Bailey Turnpike wasn't designated as I-44 until around 1983 (I remember seeing "Future I-44" signs in 1982). A lot of I-44 running through Lawton is bracketed by military property or tribe-owned trust land.

City leaders have been trying to reverse the out-flow cycle with downtown redevelopment efforts. But their attempts have no focus. There's no project to tie it all together. Pueblo is arguably just as trashy a city as Lawton. But at least they had a better idea for improving their downtown zone. A river walk is not a new idea. However it kind of brings everything together. Lawton also got hurt by certain movers and shakers going down rabbit holes, pursuing ideas that had no chance of happening -such as building a 20,000 seat arena downtown to get a minor league basketball team. I guess these guys didn't see how much the Ford Center in OKC cost to get built in Bricktown over 20 years ago. Obviously that pursuit went nowhere. Lawton is just suffering from the lack of good, visionary yet realistic leadership.