Nashville Traffic Alert: I-65 Shutdown and Winter Storm Recovery Impact Friday Commute

Winter Storm Recovery and Hazardous Road Conditions

Nashville commuters are facing a difficult Friday morning as the city continues its recovery from Winter Storm Fern. While major arteries are being cleared, hazardous icy patches and significant accidents are disrupting the morning flow. Mayor Freddie O’Connell’s State of Emergency remains in effect as Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) crews enter their seventh day of around-the-clock snow and ice removal operations. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution on bridge decks and overpasses, which remain susceptible to black ice despite ongoing salting efforts.

Major Interstate and Highway Alerts

The most significant disruption this morning involves the interchange of I-65 and I-440. Reports indicate a shutdown at this junction following a major multi-vehicle accident. Traffic is heavily backed up, and authorities recommend using Briley Parkway or Ellington Parkway as alternatives. Additionally, the following roadworks are scheduled for today, Friday, January 30:

• Murfreesboro Pike: A right lane closure is in effect eastbound at Mile Marker 21 for utility maintenance and pole removal from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
• I-65 Northbound: Expect lane shifts and narrow lanes near Mile Marker 96 due to an ongoing widening project in Davidson County.
• Old Nashville Highway: Construction at the intersection of Sam Ridley Parkway continues with temporary lane closures for turn lane installation and detection equipment.
• Interstate 40: Maintenance crews are active between Mile Markers 205 and 207, which may cause intermittent delays throughout the morning.

Public Transit and School Impact

WeGo Public Transit has resumed regular weekday service, but several detours are active due to remaining icy conditions on secondary roads and downtown construction. Commuters should be aware of the following transit changes:

• Route 3 (West End): Outbound trips are detouring near US Hwy 70, skipping stops between Hicks Road and Sawyer Brown.
• Route 7 (Hillsboro) and Route 8 (8th Avenue South): Both routes are experiencing detours between Broadway and the Music City Central terminal.
• Route 89 (Springfield/Joelton): The Downtown Springfield Park & Ride remains closed today.
• WeGo Star: The commuter rail and its associated shuttles (Routes 64 and 93) are operating on a normal weekday schedule, providing a reliable alternative for those traveling from the east.

Widespread school closures for Friday, January 30, include Metro Nashville Public Schools, Cannon County, Cheatham County, Dickson County, and the Lebanon Special District. While this reduces the number of school buses on the road, it also means more residential traffic may be present as families navigate the closures.

Travel and Airport Advisory

For those heading to Nashville International Airport (BNA), be advised that a potential federal government shutdown deadline at midnight tonight may lead to increased congestion at security checkpoints. Travelers are encouraged to arrive at the terminal at least two and a half hours before their scheduled departure. For local drivers, please allow at least 30 minutes of extra travel time and maintain a safe following distance from snowplows and emergency vehicles.