KNOXVILLE — In another milestone of the progress made since Hurricane Helene devastated parts of Tennessee and North Carolina, motorists can travel between the two states on I-40 for the first time since September 2024 on Saturday, March 1.
In October 2024, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) reopened I-40 to one traffic lane in each direction between MM 446 and MM 451 (Waterville Road) in Cosby, just before the TN/NC state line. This weekend, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) will reopen on their side of I-40, permitting travel between states.
Due to anticipated slowdowns and lengthy delays, TDOT recommends that motorists traveling into North Carolina take I-81 North to I-77 South in Virginia or I-81 North to I-26 East.
This area will have lowered speeds, with a 40-mile-per-hour limit in Tennessee and a 35-mile-per-hour limit in North Carolina. Vehicles over 8½ feet in length will not be allowed to use this roadway. Motorists must remember that this remains an active work zone in both states, with reduced lane widths to protect workers rebuilding the interstate in Tennessee and North Carolina.
In addition, motorists also need to be aware of the following:
The work zone extends from MM 446 in Tennessee to MM 7 in North Carolina.
There is only one lane of traffic open in each direction across approximately 12 miles.
Work crews and construction equipment will enter and exit this roadway daily.
There are no shoulders and no emergency pull-off lanes within the work zone.
There are no exits in the work zone with easy access to gas stations or convenience stores.
Several other agencies across East Tennessee are reporting issues, including disruptions in 911 services and intersections without working traffic lights.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – Left in the aftermath of Sunday morning’s strong storms and high winds are many downed trees and thousands of people without power.
Below is a breakdown of how many households are without power as of 4 p.m. Sunday:
Several other agencies across East Tennessee are reporting issues, including disruptions in 911 services in Monroe County, downed power lines in Anderson and Blount counties and intersections without working traffic signals in Knox County.
The Clinch River has flooded Roberts Road and portions of State Highway 33 in Hancock County. Alternate routes are limited, so please avoid these areas until the waters recede.
In addition to the power outages, flooding has also shut down several roads in Hancock and Claiborne counties, according to THP’s Fall Branch District.
Click here for the latest traffic conditions across East Tennessee.
January 31, 2025—Grammy, CMA and ACM Award-winning artist Lainey Wilson confirms her Whirlwind World Tour to kick off in March. Produced by Live Nation and sponsored by Coors Light and Wrangler, the tour will include stops at Zurich’s X-TRA, Paris’ Elysée Montmartre, New York’s Madison Square Garden, Los Angeles’ Kia Forum, Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, Austin’s Moody Center, Baton Rouge’s Raising Cane’s River Center Arena and Denver’s Ball Arena among many others. Special guests on the tour include ERNEST, Muscadine Bloodline, Kaitlin Butts, Maddox Batson, Drake Milligan, Lauren Watkins and Zach Meadows. See below for the complete tour itinerary.
Wilson’s Wild Horses fan club will get exclusive early access to tickets starting Tuesday, February 4 at 8:00am local time. Citi is the official card of the Whirlwind World Tour. Citi cardmembers will have access to pre-sale tickets beginning Tuesday, February 4 at 10:00am local time until Thursday, February 6 at 10:00PM local time through the Citi Entertainment program. For complete presale details visit www.citientertainment.com.
Verizon will offer an exclusive pre-sale for the Whirlwind World Tour in the U.S. through Verizon Access, just for being a customer. Verizon Access Pre-sale tickets for select shows will begin Tuesday, February 4 at 10:00am local time through Thursday, February 6 at 10:00PM local time. For more details, visit Verizon.com/Access or the My Verizon App. The general on-sale will begin Friday, February 7 at 10:00am local time. Full details can be found at www.laineywilson.com/tour.
Here are their policies: To ensure a safe and fun family-friendly environment, the Tennessee Valley Fair implements rules and regulations for having the best time! (courtesy of tnvalleyfair.org)
Knoxville Police Department
All 10 days, Knoxville Police Department is on-site monitoring the safety of the fairgrounds and fairgoers. If you have any issues about safety, please reach out to a Fair official or a Knoxville Police Department Officer.
Code of Conduct
The Knoxville Police Department and other safety officers will enforce all applicable laws and ordinances.
All patrons subject to search and must be in accordance with our Bag Policy.
Be respectful of all patrons, guests & staff.
Any form of violence, including threats of violence, will not be tolerated.
No weapons of any kind.
Unruly or disruptive behavior or action deemed unsafe will not be tolerated.
Profanity and other abusive language or gestures are prohibited.
Public intoxication is prohibited and is cause for removal from the property.
Underage consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited and is cause for removal from the property.
Dress Code: Shirts and shoes must be worn at all times. Clothing with offensive language, obscene gestures/graphics, nudity, or clothing that does not sufficiently cover undergarments are prohibited.
No illegal substances are allowed.
No outside food or beverage.
Solicitation or distribution of items is prohibited.
Any person violating this Code of Conduct or violating anything deemed inappropriate may be removed from the property.
Minor Attendance Policy
To ensure the safety of all our guests, the Tennessee Valley Fair has instituted the following policies:
On both Fridays and Saturdays starting at 5:00pm, all attendees under 18 years of age (minors) must be accompanied by a parent and/or legal guardian 21 years of age or older. Proof of age and valid identification cards will be required at the gate.
For each parent or legal guardian, 6 minors can enter. Any group with more than 6 minors will require an additional parent and/or legal guardian 21 years of age or older.
Parents and/or legal guardians must remain on-site and with attending minors. Dropping off and/or leaving minors unaccompanied is strictly forbidden. Failure to abide by this policy will result in immediate dismissal from the property.
This policy will pertain only to Fridays and Saturdays.
Metal Detection
All attendees are subject to screening via metal detectors. Screenings will be conducted by Tennessee Valley Fair Security Officials upon entry. (This change is a state requirement per Tennessee Public Chapter 467, which took effect July 1, 2017.)
Bag Search and Bag Policy
Clear bags are the only bags permitted. All bags will be checked by security upon entry, regardless of shape, size or necessity.
Approved Bags:
Clear bags of any size/shape
Small clutches/purses, no larger than 4.5 inches by 6 inches
Diaper bags when accompanied by a minor child
Medically necessary bags
All approved bags are subject to search and may be tagged to indicate they have been approved by Knoxville Police Department/Tennessee Valley Fair Security Officials.
Prohibited Bags:
All non-clear bags such as:
Backpacks
Printed pattern plastic bag
Cross-body bag
Fanny pack
Purses
Coolers
Reusable grocery totes
Mesh bags / Cinch bags
Duffel bags
Large tote bags
Beverage containers
Camera cases
Brief cases
Any bags deemed unsafe by the Knoxville Police Department/Tennessee Valley Fair Security Officials.
Non-Permissible Items
Selfie sticks
Guns, knives, and weapons of any kind
Outside food and beverages
Pets except for service animals
Drones
Any items deemed unsafe by the Knoxville Police Department/Tennessee Valley Fair Security Officials.
Drones Policy
In accordance with FAA regulations and for the safety of our fairgoers, drones and other motorized, aircraft systems are prohibited from flying above or near the fairgrounds.
Weather PolicyThe Tennessee Valley Fair is a rain or shine event including all events and concerts taking place. No rain checks or refunds will be issued. The Tennessee Valley Fair with the Knoxville Police Department and the National Weather Service monitors all potentially hazardous weather conditions. In the event the National Weather Service announces a severe weather warning within a 5-mile radius of Chilhowee Park and Exposition Center, weather advisories will be announced immediately on the public-address system directing guests to seek shelter. Designated severe weather shelters are located at the Jacob Building and the Kerr Building. If a concert or special event is taking place, the event will be delayed, postponed, or canceled depending on the severity and duration of the weather event. Fairgoers will be notified of any weather-related announcements via social media, tnvalleyfair.org website, and through emails.
Soliciting
Soliciting, selling items, promoting other events, organizations, etc. are strictly prohibited without prior approval from the Tennessee Valley Fair.
Attire
Appropriate attire always required for a family-friendly atmosphere.
Personal Conduct Conduct should be maintained for a family-friendly atmosphere.
Lost or Stolen Items The Tennessee Valley Fair is not responsible for lost or stolen items in cars or on person attending the fair.
Ticket Sales Policies
If tickets are purchased through a third-party provider, the Tennessee Valley Fair cannot guarantee authenticity. Please purchase all of your tickets through the Tennessee Valley Fair website – www.tnvalleyfair.org/tickets or by calling our ticket office at 865-215-1482. Lost and stolen tickets are the responsibility of the purchaser.
All tickets, wristbands, and coupons become void after the last day of the fair.
Photo Policy
Photo, video, and audio may be taken for promotional purposes. By entering the Tennessee Valley Fairgrounds, you consent, waive all rights to royalties, and release the Tennessee Valley Fair of any liability. You agree to your likeness used, published or reproduced in any and all media which can be used, now or in the future, for any purpose by or in connection with the Tennessee Valley Fair. For additional information or to opt out of this agreement, consent, waiver and release, please call 865-215-1471.
Rules: The Tennessee Valley Fair reserves the right to construe its own rules and regulations to decide the matters and difference in regards thereto. Fair information, logos, likeness, and ads cannot be printed or used without permission from the Tennessee Valley Fair.
Here are their policies: To ensure a safe and fun family-friendly environment, the Tennessee Valley Fair implements rules and regulations for having the best time! (courtesy of tnvalleyfair.org)
Knoxville Police Department
All 10 days, Knoxville Police Department is on-site monitoring the safety of the fairgrounds and fairgoers. If you have any issues about safety, please reach out to a Fair official or a Knoxville Police Department Officer.
Code of Conduct
The Knoxville Police Department and other safety officers will enforce all applicable laws and ordinances.
All patrons subject to search and must be in accordance with our Bag Policy.
Be respectful of all patrons, guests & staff.
Any form of violence, including threats of violence, will not be tolerated.
No weapons of any kind.
Unruly or disruptive behavior or action deemed unsafe will not be tolerated.
Profanity and other abusive language or gestures are prohibited.
Public intoxication is prohibited and is cause for removal from the property.
Underage consumption of alcohol is strictly prohibited and is cause for removal from the property.
Dress Code: Shirts and shoes must be worn at all times. Clothing with offensive language, obscene gestures/graphics, nudity, or clothing that does not sufficiently cover undergarments are prohibited.
No illegal substances are allowed.
No outside food or beverage.
Solicitation or distribution of items is prohibited.
Any person violating this Code of Conduct or violating anything deemed inappropriate may be removed from the property.
Minor Attendance Policy
To ensure the safety of all our guests, the Tennessee Valley Fair has instituted the following policies:
On both Fridays and Saturdays starting at 5:00pm, all attendees under 18 years of age (minors) must be accompanied by a parent and/or legal guardian 21 years of age or older. Proof of age and valid identification cards will be required at the gate.
For each parent or legal guardian, 6 minors can enter. Any group with more than 6 minors will require an additional parent and/or legal guardian 21 years of age or older.
Parents and/or legal guardians must remain on-site and with attending minors. Dropping off and/or leaving minors unaccompanied is strictly forbidden. Failure to abide by this policy will result in immediate dismissal from the property.
This policy will pertain only to Fridays and Saturdays.
Metal Detection
All attendees are subject to screening via metal detectors. Screenings will be conducted by Tennessee Valley Fair Security Officials upon entry. (This change is a state requirement per Tennessee Public Chapter 467, which took effect July 1, 2017.)
Bag Search and Bag Policy
Clear bags are the only bags permitted. All bags will be checked by security upon entry, regardless of shape, size or necessity.
Approved Bags:
Clear bags of any size/shape
Small clutches/purses, no larger than 4.5 inches by 6 inches
Diaper bags when accompanied by a minor child
Medically necessary bags
All approved bags are subject to search and may be tagged to indicate they have been approved by Knoxville Police Department/Tennessee Valley Fair Security Officials.
Prohibited Bags:
All non-clear bags such as:
Backpacks
Printed pattern plastic bag
Cross-body bag
Fanny pack
Purses
Coolers
Reusable grocery totes
Mesh bags / Cinch bags
Duffel bags
Large tote bags
Beverage containers
Camera cases
Brief cases
Any bags deemed unsafe by the Knoxville Police Department/Tennessee Valley Fair Security Officials.
Non-Permissible Items
Selfie sticks
Guns, knives, and weapons of any kind
Outside food and beverages
Pets except for service animals
Drones
Any items deemed unsafe by the Knoxville Police Department/Tennessee Valley Fair Security Officials.
Drones Policy
In accordance with FAA regulations and for the safety of our fairgoers, drones and other motorized, aircraft systems are prohibited from flying above or near the fairgrounds.
Weather PolicyThe Tennessee Valley Fair is a rain or shine event including all events and concerts taking place. No rain checks or refunds will be issued. The Tennessee Valley Fair with the Knoxville Police Department and the National Weather Service monitors all potentially hazardous weather conditions. In the event the National Weather Service announces a severe weather warning within a 5-mile radius of Chilhowee Park and Exposition Center, weather advisories will be announced immediately on the public-address system directing guests to seek shelter. Designated severe weather shelters are located at the Jacob Building and the Kerr Building. If a concert or special event is taking place, the event will be delayed, postponed, or canceled depending on the severity and duration of the weather event. Fairgoers will be notified of any weather-related announcements via social media, tnvalleyfair.org website, and through emails.
Soliciting
Soliciting, selling items, promoting other events, organizations, etc. are strictly prohibited without prior approval from the Tennessee Valley Fair.
Attire
Appropriate attire always required for a family-friendly atmosphere.
Personal Conduct Conduct should be maintained for a family-friendly atmosphere.
Lost or Stolen Items The Tennessee Valley Fair is not responsible for lost or stolen items in cars or on person attending the fair.
Ticket Sales Policies
If tickets are purchased through a third-party provider, the Tennessee Valley Fair cannot guarantee authenticity. Please purchase all of your tickets through the Tennessee Valley Fair website – www.tnvalleyfair.org/tickets or by calling our ticket office at 865-215-1482. Lost and stolen tickets are the responsibility of the purchaser.
All tickets, wristbands, and coupons become void after the last day of the fair.
Photo Policy
Photo, video, and audio may be taken for promotional purposes. By entering the Tennessee Valley Fairgrounds, you consent, waive all rights to royalties, and release the Tennessee Valley Fair of any liability. You agree to your likeness used, published or reproduced in any and all media which can be used, now or in the future, for any purpose by or in connection with the Tennessee Valley Fair. For additional information or to opt out of this agreement, consent, waiver and release, please call 865-215-1471.
Rules: The Tennessee Valley Fair reserves the right to construe its own rules and regulations to decide the matters and difference in regards thereto. Fair information, logos, likeness, and ads cannot be printed or used without permission from the Tennessee Valley Fair.
A major road project is set to get underway in North Knox County in August.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation says the project in Powell to help alleviate traffic on Emory Road at I-75.
They are planning to add a diverted diamond interchange similar to the one at I-40’s exit 407, the Sevierville exit.
TDOT’s Mark Nagi explains how it will work.
He says Motorists driving either eastbound or westbound will navigate through two traffic signals and perform crisscross maneuvers. While motorists going westbound can go straight through the interchange or access southbound or northbound I-75.
An investigation is underway following a house fire in East Knox County.
Rural Metro Fire were called to the 9300 block of Mascot Road yesterday (Sunday) morning and found a large 2 story home with fire coming from the rear and everyone inside and their pets were safely outside.
Crews worked hard to limit the spread of the fire, but the false ceilings and multiple roofs that had been added over the years proved trying. The home suffered significant fire, smoke and water damage.
The Red Cross was called to help the occupants and no injuries were reported.
The Oscar Mayer Wienermobile will be making several stops in East Tennessee this weekend at various Kroger stores.
You can see the iconic 27-foot hotdog on wheels at the following dates and times:
Friday, Jan. 24 Knoxville Kroger, 9501 Northshore Drive from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Maryville Kroger, 507 N. Foothills Plaza from 2-5 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 25 Pigeon Forge Kroger, 220 Wears Valley Road from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sevierville Kroger, 702 Winfield Dunn Parkway from 2-5 p.m.
Sunday, Jan. 26 Powell Kroger, 234 E. Emory Road from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Knoxville Kroger, 6702 Clinton Highway from 2-5 p.m.
Guests will have the opportunity to take pictures with the Wienermobile and interact with the Hotdoggers, the official Wienermobile drivers. All of the events are free and open to the public!
