The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Region 3 Strike Force and bridge inspection crews are in East Tennessee helping with recovery and repairs following historic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene.
On Saturday, September 28, five bridge inspectors, 16 Strike Force members, and Region 3 Director of Operations Nathan Vatter deployed to Cocke and Sevier Counties to assist Region 1 with slope failures, debris removal, drainage restoration, sinkholes, and bridge inspections.
TDOT Strike Force is a specialized group that can deploy quickly with necessary equipment. The team is made up of engineers, equipment operators, and transportation experts who work to remove debris, make repairs, and ensure public safety. The goal of this team is to provide immediate relief and begin the recovery process in flood-affected communities.
While Middle Tennessee experienced localized flooding and downed trees, the damage in East Tennessee is vast. Damage statistics on state roadways as of midday Sunday, September 29 are as follows:
