22 Miles of ITS Expansion on Tennessee’s I-40W
Project at a Glance
- Location: Davidson, Williamson, Cheatham, & Dickson Counties
- Client: Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT)
About the Project
The CNW907 I-40W ITS Expansion project stretches across 22 miles of I-40W from Nashville to Dickson. Designed to enhance driver communication and traffic management through expanded Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), this project brings a new level of connectivity and safety to one of Tennessee’s busiest corridors. The scope of work includes underground and communication infrastructure upgrades, along with the installation of state-of-the-art ITS devices:
- 8 Dynamic Message Signs (DMS)
- 24 Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) Poles
- 4 Roadside Detection System (RDS) Poles with 28 RDS sensors
- 32 Equipment Cabinets
- 14 New Power Demarcation Points
- 129,931 feet of 144F Fiber Optic Cable
- 167,994 feet of Conduit
By building robust communication infrastructure, TDOT can keep drivers informed about real-time traffic conditions, enhancing roadway safety and efficiency across multiple counties.
Why It Matters:
The I-40W ITS Expansion is a critical step toward safer, smarter highways in Tennessee. With advanced Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) now spanning 22 miles, drivers can receive real-time traffic updates, while TDOT gains enhanced tools for managing congestion and responding to incidents. This project not only improves daily commutes across Davidson, Williamson, Cheatham, and Dickson Counties but also strengthens the local economy and prepares our roadways for future innovations. Stansell Electric is proud to support a safer, more connected journey for our communities.
Challenges and Solutions:
This project required a dedicated approach to overcome several unique challenges, including:
Night Work Requirements:
With 65% of the work conducted at night, coordinating schedules and ensuring safety for nighttime operations was critical. Crews, equipment, subcontractors, and TDOT worked closely to maintain smooth night work transitions.
Geographic Obstacles:
Rocky terrain and challenging landscapes along the route required adaptive installation techniques. Stansell Electric adjusted plans, utilizing more conduit boring than initially expected to navigate tough terrain and meet project specifications.
Multi-County Utility Coordination:
Coordination across three different utility companies and four counties posed logistical challenges. Stansell successfully managed this with extensive planning and assistance from local law enforcement, including the Cheatham and Dickson County Sheriff’s Departments, when necessary.
Concrete Coordination:
Scheduling and managing concrete resources required close collaboration with multiple suppliers, ensuring timely delivery across the project’s extensive footprint.
Key Features:
Several features set this project apart, underscoring Stansell Electric’s adaptability and dedication to quality:
Rocky Terrain and Bridge Navigation:
Crews encountered rocky terrain and had to navigate six bridges along the I-40 stretch, managing complex installation conditions.
Simultaneous TDOT Projects:
Working within the scope of multiple other TDOT projects in the same vicinity added an extra layer of coordination, highlighting Stansell Electric’s ability to collaborate seamlessly with other contractors and deliver on schedule.
What We’re Proud Of:
Despite encountering multiple accidents within the work zone, none were attributed to Stansell Electric’s operations, and the project was completed without any injuries—a testament to the company’s safety commitment. Additionally, this project spurred growth and development for many team members, who gained valuable skills through the unique challenges presented by the CNW907 project. Adapting to significant changes throughout the project, Stansell Electric demonstrated resilience, teamwork, and leadership to achieve project goals.
Reflective Insights:
Completing the I-40W ITS Expansion was more than a technical challenge—it was a journey that required adaptability, teamwork, and precision every step of the way. Working through rugged terrain, coordinating across four counties, and ensuring safety during extensive night shifts highlighted the dedication and resilience of Stansell Electric’s team. This project served as a powerful reminder of the impact our work has on everyday lives, and it reinforced our commitment to enhancing infrastructure that communities depend on. As we look back on the obstacles overcome and milestones achieved, we’re excited for the road ahead in building smarter, safer pathways for all.
