Washington County’s infrastructure recovery is hitting high gear this spring, with Mayor Joe Grandy and Highway Superintendent Doug Jones announcing major construction milestones for three critical bridge projects.
"The progress we are seeing today is a testament to the tireless dedication of our local crews and our partners at the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT)," Grandy said. "I want to personally thank the men and women who have worked through the winter and under difficult conditions to get these structures back online. We know these closures have been a hardship for our residents, and we want to reassure everyone that we are pushing every timeline possible to ensure our infrastructure is not just restored, but built back stronger and safer than before."
As of February 2026, the county has received approximately 5.5 million in FEMA reimbursements for Helene-related damages, which helps sustain the aggressive construction schedules for these projects.
Bailey’s Bridge (State Route 353)
The crossing of the Nolichucky River at Bailey’s Bridge is nearing completion, roughly 18 months after being destroyed by the historic flooding of Hurricane Helene. Managed by TDOT and executed by Summers-Taylor Construction, work has proceeded rapidly through the winter months.
A formal ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for May 19, marking the official reopening of this essential connection for the community.
Bailey’s Bridge is a primary artery for agricultural and local commuter traffic between southern Washington County and Greene County; its reopening is expected to significantly reduce detour times that have been in place since September 2024.
Telford Road Bridge
Construction on the Telford Road Bridge is now moving forward at full speed. Following its closure by TDOT for safety reasons nearly a year ago, the project cleared engineering and received final TDOT approval late last year.
The contract has been awarded to King Construction, and with final right-of-way plans secured, work is officially underway. While the standard contract allows for a 180-day completion window, Grandy and Jones have challenged the firm to fast-track the project, aiming for it to be finished in 100 days or less to restore this vital route for residents.
Corby Bridge
Engineering and design work continues for the total reconstruction of Corby Bridge. Originally built in 1959, the bridge was partially destroyed during Hurricane Helene and must now be completely rebuilt to meet modern safety and hydrology standards.
The transition from the original design of the bridge to current standards involves increased weight load capacities and improved drainage to mitigate future flood risks.
The project recently received its first TDOT approval for the mandatory hydrology study. Final engineering approvals are anticipated within the next 60 days, at which point the county will begin the bid process for demolition and reconstruction.
“Our crews and contractors have been working through the toughest months of the year to keep these projects on track,” Jones said. “From the hydrology studies at Corby to the final paving prep at Bailey’s, we are seeing the results of a very disciplined, aggressive construction schedule.”
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