The Tennessee Department of Transportation (Tn Dept Transportation), plays a crucial role in maintaining and developing the infrastructure across the state. In East Tennessee, Region 1 of the TN Dept Transportation, headquartered in Knoxville, is responsible for a vast network of highways and transportation systems across 24 counties. This region is managed under the leadership of Director/Assistant Chief Engineer Steven M. Borden, P.E., who directs a wide array of critical operations.
Regional Operations: Ensuring Safe and Efficient Roadways
The Regional Operations division within TN Dept Transportation Region 1 is at the forefront of maintaining a safe and reliable transportation network. This branch oversees administrative, engineering, and technical activities across multiple offices in East Tennessee. Key areas of responsibility include:
- Highway Maintenance and Repair: Ensuring the upkeep and timely repair of existing roadways.
- Construction Engineering: Managing construction projects to expand and improve the transportation infrastructure.
- Safety and Traffic Management: Implementing measures to enhance road safety and optimize traffic flow.
- Highway Marking: Maintaining clear and effective road markings for driver guidance.
- Bridge Repair and Inspection: Ensuring the structural integrity and safety of bridges through regular inspections and repairs.
- State Aid Program and Administration: Managing state-funded transportation projects and administrative processes.
- Materials and Tests: Overseeing the quality and testing of materials used in transportation projects.
- Environmental Planning: Integrating environmental considerations into transportation planning and development.
- Office Administration and Personnel: Managing administrative functions and personnel matters within Region 1.
- Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS): Implementing advanced technologies to improve transportation efficiency and safety.
- Incident Response: Managing responses to traffic incidents to minimize disruption and ensure safety.
Amanda Snowden, P.E., serves as the Director of Operations and can be contacted at (865) 594-2400 or [email protected] for inquiries related to these operations.
Project Management: Delivering Transportation Projects Efficiently
Effective project management is vital to the successful execution of transportation initiatives. The Project Management division of TN Dept Transportation Region 1 is tasked with overseeing statewide programs and projects from their initial conception through development and final delivery within the 24-county region.
Project Managers within this division act as the central point of accountability for project delivery. Their responsibilities encompass:
- Establishing project scope and objectives.
- Developing and managing project schedules.
- Identifying and mitigating potential project risks.
- Setting and managing project budgets.
For any inquiries regarding project management within TN Dept Transportation Region 1, Dexter Justis, P. E., Director of Project Management, can be reached at (865) 594-2400 or [email protected].
Regional Preconstruction: Planning and Design for Future Infrastructure
The Regional Preconstruction division plays a crucial role in the early stages of transportation projects. This division directs the engineering and technical activities essential for the design and planning phases, including:
- Design engineering for transportation projects.
- Right-of-way acquisition to secure land for projects.
- Utility relocation to accommodate new infrastructure.
- Surveying and mapping for project planning.
Furthermore, Regional Preconstruction is responsible for managing project processes to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget, while adhering to all state and federal regulations. This division collaborates closely with Project Management and other functional areas within TN Dept Transportation, as well as local and state partners.
Christie Brown, P. E., Director of Preconstruction, is the contact person for inquiries related to preconstruction activities. She can be reached at (865) 594-2400 or [email protected].
Conclusion: Connecting East Tennessee through Dedicated Transportation Management
TN Dept Transportation Region 1 is a critical entity for East Tennessee, dedicated to providing a safe, reliable, and efficient roadway network. Through its divisions of Regional Operations, Project Management, and Regional Preconstruction, the department effectively manages all aspects of transportation infrastructure from planning and design to maintenance and operations. For further information or specific inquiries, contacting the directors of each division ensures direct access to the relevant expertise within the TN Dept Transportation.
