News

Once again, Manchester, Tennessee, will host the annual Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival, one of the most popular live music events in the country. Since 2002, the event has featured a diverse assortment of performers on a 700-acre Middle Tennessee farm that becomes the temporary home for thousands from across the country. Over 65,000 people are expected to attend this year’s festival, which runs from Thursday, June 12, 2025, through Sunday, June 15, 2025.

The area in and around Manchester always sees increased traffic volumes during this time. And the Tennessee Department of Transportation is gearing up for the extra traffic. TDOT works closely with the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP), Manchester Police Department, Manchester Fire and Rescue, Coffee County Sheriff’s Department, Coffee County EMA, and festival promoters to keep traffic moving on I-24 while also getting Bonnaroo attendees to their destination.

“TDOT has once again coordinated with our agency partners to ensure safe and efficient travel during the Bonnaroo Music and Arts Festival,” says Deputy Governor and TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “The main objective is to keep thru traffic moving smoothly on I-24 while getting festivalgoers safely into and out of the Bonnaroo site. Because of this advance planning, we can successfully minimize traffic delays throughout the weekend.”

TDOT HELP units will assist with traffic management during the festival and aid any motorists who require assistance. In addition, TDOT will be taking the following steps:

• Efforts will be concentrated on keeping I-24 traffic flowing.
• HELP trucks will be on-site, patrolling the interstate and state routes throughout the festival region.
• Exit 111 (SR-55) will be used as the main festival exit. Alternate exits will be used if congestion occurs on the interstate.
• TDOT maintenance units will be posted throughout the festival region, and maintenance personnel will be on call all weekend.
• Variable message signs will be in place to warn drivers ahead of delays.
• No construction-related lane closures on I-24 near the festival between Tuesday, June 10, 2025, and Tuesday, June 17, 2025.
• Median crossovers will be guarded to prevent motorists from parking in the crossovers and blocking emergency vehicles.
• Festival traffic will be kept in the right lane and/or on the shoulder of the interstate, allowing through traffic to utilize the left travel lane unimpeded.
• Emergency vehicles will use county roads that will be kept at low volume.
• Temporary communication towers will be in place to improve emergency communications.

If drivers need the assistance of a state trooper while traveling anywhere in Tennessee, they can dial *THP (*847) from their cell phone. They will be automatically connected to the nearest THP dispatch office and the operator will send a state trooper to their location.

From your desktop or mobile device, access the latest construction activity and live-streaming SmartWay traffic cameras at www.TNSmartWay.com/Traffic. As always, drivers are reminded to use all motorist information tools wisely and “Know Before You Go!” by checking travel conditions before leaving for their destination. Drivers should never tweet, text, or talk on a cell phone while behind the wheel.

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) and the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) are warning Tennesseans about a new scam involving text messages that say they come from the Tennessee Department of Vehicles (DMV). The scam messages claim the recipient has outstanding traffic ticket fines and threatens that their vehicle registration and driving privileges will be suspended if payment is not made. Some messages include a link directing users to a fake website designed to look like the official TDOSHS site. These messages are not from the TDOSHS or the THP. They are fake messages trying to scam Tennesseans. This new outstanding traffic ticket scam is similar to the recent unpaid toll scam and other messages pretending to be from trusted sources that have been making the rounds across the country. The TDOSHS urges Tennesseans to take these steps to protect themselves: – Know that the TDOSHS does not send text messages about overdue traffic fines, fees, payments, or license suspensions. – Do not click on any links or respond to unexpected texts. Scammers want you to react quickly. – Always use a verified phone number or website. Do not use the contact information in a suspicious message. – Check the end of a suspicious email. Emails from Tennessee State Government end in “@tn.gov.” Messages from Gmail, Hotmail, iCloud, or other providers are not official. – Report and delete scam text messages. Use your phone’s “report junk” option to report the message, block the number and then delete it. You can also report scams and suspicious communications to the Federal Trade Commission. If you are a victim of this scam, report your interaction to www.ic3.gov/. For more information about common scams and how to protect yourself, visit the Tennessee Office of the Attorney General’s Division of Consumer Affairs at www.tn.gov/consumer.

 Tennessee Secretary of State Tre Hargett, State Rep. Scott Cepicky, the Tennessee Department of Health, the Tennessee Department of Safety, and AAA today urged parents and caregivers to utilize the free ‘Baby in the Back’ car hangtag program to help reduce heat-related illnesses and deaths in children during the summer months. 

“This program is a small way we can raise awareness about the dangers of heat-related illnesses and deaths among our youngest Tennesseans,” said Secretary Hargett. “I am grateful to Rep. Cepicky for approaching us with the idea for ‘Baby in the Back’ and for his trust in our office to administer it. Thanks to the Department of Health, the Department of Safety’s Highway Safety Office, and AAA — The Auto Club Group, for joining us this year as we all work together to prevent these tragedies involving children.”

State Rep. Scott Cepicky presented the idea for ‘Baby in the Back’ to Secretary Hargett a few years ago. Since its launch, almost 600,000 Tennesseans have requested the free hangtags.

“This program was an idea inspired by my father, a disabled veteran, who had a placard hanging from his car mirror,” said Rep. Cepicky. “That placard led me work on creating a similar visual reminder to prevent the unspeakable tragedies we hear about every summer. I am honored ‘Baby in the Back’ has become one of the best programs in the nation, and I appreciate Secretary Hargett’s continued partnership as we work to improve safety for families in communities across Tennessee.”  

These serve as a reminder for drivers to always check their vehicles before locking them on hot days. Passersby who see a tag displayed from a vehicle’s mirror may also be prompted to check the vehicle and make sure no child has been left inside.

“Far too many families experience the unimaginable tragedy of losing a child to heatstroke from being left in a vehicle,” Tennessee Health Commissioner Ralph Alvarado, MD, FACP, said. “The ‘Baby in the Back’ hang tag is a simple, life-saving reminder that can make a difference in protecting our most vulnerable passengers. No distraction is worth a life when we can make sure every child gets home safely.”

During extreme heat, interior temperatures in a parked car can quickly approach 140 degrees. While hot car deaths involving children are preventable, on average, one child dies from heatstroke in a car every 10 days. In more than half of these deaths involving children in hot cars, a caregiver forgot the child they were caring for was inside the vehicle.

“When a child is left in a car accidentally or you think it’s just a few minutes, it is a situation that can quickly turn into a tragedy,” said Tennessee Highway Safety Office Deputy Director Jason Ivey. “In Tennessee, it is illegal to leave children in a vehicle without supervision for any period of time. It is our hope that these hangtags will be a visible reminder and will prevent a tragic heat-related injury or death from occurring.”

Travel on Tennessee roadways tends to increase during the summer months. Because of schedule changes, parents and caregivers are also more likely to become distracted. The free visual reminder provided by the ‘Baby in the Back’ car hangtag program can make all the difference.

“Every year, despite warnings from safety organizations, children continue to lose their lives in hot cars – a tragedy that is entirely preventable,” said Stephanie Milani, TN Public Affairs Director for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “We’re committed to raising awareness and proud to partner with this program to deliver a simple, yet powerful reminder to never underestimate how quickly a hot car can become dangerous for a child.”

Tennesseans can request free hangtags online through the Secretary of State’s officeby visiting https://sos.tn.gov/requesthangtags.

Tags will also be available through the Department of Health at all local health departments, and the Tennessee Office of Vital Records. The Department of Safety will also distribute the hangtags at Driver Services Centers, Tennessee Highway Patrol District Headquarters, and upcoming Tennessee Highway Safety Office events, including Car Seat Checkpoints. Drivers can also stop by their local Tennessee AAA branch to pick up a free “Baby in the Back” hangtag while supplies last. To find your local branch, visit: AAA.com/branches.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) today released preliminary enforcement results for the 2025 Memorial Day holiday period, an 84-hour initiative from 6 p.m. Friday, May 23, to 5:59 a.m. Tuesday, May 27. Troopers maintained a highly visible presence on Tennessee roadways, focusing on impaired driving, speeding and seat belt violations to ensure motorist safety. During the holiday period, the THP investigated five fatal crashes, which resulted in eight fatalities. This marks a significant decrease compared to the 14 fatalities recorded during the 2024 Memorial Day holiday period. Of the fatal crashes: Four were single-vehicle incidents, while one involved multiple vehicles. One (13%) of the fatalities was alcohol-related. Six (75%) of those killed were motor vehicle occupants. All reportedly were wearing safety restraints. No child passengers requiring a child restraint device were killed. Two motorcyclists were killed; one was wearing a helmet. No pedalcyclists or pedestrians were killed. Tragically, there was a fatality every 5 hours and 30 minutes during the 2025 Memorial Day holiday period. “While we are encouraged by the reduction in fatalities this Memorial Day weekend, any loss of life on our roads is a tragedy,” said Colonel Matt Perry, commander of the Tennessee Highway Patrol. “Our troopers worked hard to enforce traffic laws and assist motorists, and we are thankful for the public’s cooperation. We will continue our efforts to promote safe driving habits and ensure everyone reaches their destination safely.” While specific data on the total number of traffic crashes and crashes with injuries is still being compiled, the THP expects to release a comprehensive report in the coming weeks. Troopers responded to numerous incidents across the state, diligently working to clear crash scenes and assist those involved. In addition to enforcement, THP troopers provided a significant number of motorist assists throughout the busy weekend. These included helping stranded motorists with flat tires, mechanical issues and providing directions, underscoring the THP’s commitment to public service. The Tennessee Highway Patrol reminds all motorists to drive sober, avoid distractions, obey speed limits and always wear a seat belt.

To celebrate Tennessee’s 229th Birthday one day early, the Tennessee State Library & Archives, the Tennessee State Museum, and Bicentennial Mall State Park are hosting free, family-friendly events as part of the 2025 Statehood Day Celebration on Saturday, May 31, 2025.

“Statehood Day at the Library & Archives provides a unique opportunity for visitors to view Tennessee’s three original constitutions,” said Secretary of State Tre Hargett. “These documents remain the foundation of our modern form of government, and they are only on display once a year at this celebration. We encourage all to join us for a day filled with enjoyable activities.” 

Statehood Day Celebration events at the Tennessee State Library & Archives begin at 10:00 a.m. Tennessee’s three priceless original constitutions will be presented, displayed, and guarded by members of the Highway Patrol’s Honor Guard during the opening ceremony at 11:00 a.m. The Library & Archives will also host living history interpreters and other family-friendly activities throughout the day, and food trucks will be stationed nearby. Behind-the-scenes tours, including stops at the robotic retrieval system and blast freezer, begin at 11:30 a.m. Tour space is limited, and reservations may be made on the day of the event. The day concludes at 2:00 p.m.  

“The staff at the Library & Archives, the State Museum, and Bicentennial Mall State Park have done an incredible job planning a tremendous celebration for our 229th birthday,” said Tennessee State Librarian and Archivist Jamie Ritter. “We hope families from across Tennessee join us for a fun, educational, and historic celebration on the Bicentennial Mall State Park Campus.”

The Tennessee State Museum will open at 10:00 a.m. to the public and offer highlight tours, Storytime with reigning Miss Tennessee Carley Vogel, period games on the front lawn, and a cupcake celebration. Highlight Tours will be provided at 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Vogel will read in the Children’s Gallery at 10:30 a.m. The cupcake celebration, which will include Vogel reading the Tennessee State poem, “Oh Tennessee, My Tennessee” by Commander William Porter Lawrence, will begin at noon in the Museum’s Grand Hall. 

“The state’s commitment to its history takes center stage here at the foot of Capitol Hill, with Bicentennial Mall, the Library & Archives, and State Museum all connected on one campus,” said Ashley Howell, executive director of the Tennessee State Museum. “If you’re interested in Tennessee history, come see us. Tennessee Statehood Day is our annual opportunity to showcase that commitment and the valuable partnership between our three institutions. We look forward to having everyone join us.”

Park rangers will also offer a guided tour of the Bicentennial State Park at 10:00 a.m. 

To commemorate the day, pick up your “Passport to Tennessee History.” Stop by the Tennessee State Library & Archives, the Tennessee State Museum, and the Visitor’s Center at Bicentennial Mall State Park. Get your book stamped at all locations to receive 10 percent off at the Bicentennial Mall and Tennessee State Museum gift shops.

For more information or a schedule of the day’s events at each location, visit:https://www.tnvacation.com/events/nashville-tennessee-statehood-day-2025.

As thousands of Tennesseans hit the road for Memorial Day weekend, the Tennessee Highway Patrol is stepping up efforts to keep drivers safe and prevent crashes.

Troopers across the state will conduct high-visibility patrols, sobriety checkpoints, and seat belt enforcement beginning Friday and continuing through Monday night. The goal is simple: reduce traffic deaths and injuries during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.

“Memorial Day weekend is a time for family and reflection — and we want everyone to get where they’re going safely,” said Col. Matt Perry, commander of the Tennessee Highway Patrol. “We’ll be out in full force watching for impaired drivers, speeders, and anyone putting others at risk.”

The Tennessee Highway Patrol offers these tips to stay safe on the road:

· – Always wear your seat belt — it’s your best defense in a crash.

· – Don’t drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

· – Follow the speed limit, especially in construction and rural areas.

· – Put your phone down and avoid other distractions behind the wheel.

· – Allow extra time to reach your destination and be patient in heavy traffic.

“We know this is the unofficial start of summer, and we want it to be a safe one,” Perry said. “We’re also proud to partner with the Tennessee Highway Safety Office in this effort to keep our roads safe.”

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, TDOSHS, has announced more than 3 million Tennesseans have obtained a REAL ID ahead of the federal implementation date, May 7, 2025.

Since the TDOSHS began issuing REAL IDs on July 1, 2019, they have issued 3,009,407 compliant credentials. The TDOSHS issued 358,852, or nearly 12%, of all REAL IDs in the past three months alone. There are approximately 5.8 million licensed drivers in Tennessee. Of those, 1,860,265 have chosen not to obtain a REAL ID, and 960,209 are currently in the renewal cycle and have not yet made a selection.

“Reaching this milestone reflects the commitment of our Driver Services team across the state,” said Commissioner Jeff Long. “From front-counter staff to back-office personnel, our employees have worked diligently to process REAL ID applications and serve the public in a timely, professional manner. Their efforts helped us get as many Tennesseans ready as possible before the federal implementation date.”

REAL ID credentials are now required for certain federal purposes—such as boarding commercial flights or entering some federal facilities. However, there is no cutoff for when a Tennessee resident can apply for one.

Assistant Commissioner Russell Shoup praised the Driver Services Division’s multi-year effort and encouraged the public to continue taking advantage of the program. “REAL ID has been a long-term initiative, and this milestone is the result of years of planning, outreach, and public service. While many Tennesseans made the decision early, others may choose to get a REAL ID later—and that’s just fine. Our Driver Services Centers remain ready to assist anyone who needs one.”

REAL IDs are available at any Driver Services Center. Residents with a current Tennessee credential can also apply for a REAL ID at a participating County Clerk partner. To apply, individuals must bring documentation proving U.S. citizenship or legal presence, their Social Security number, and two proofs of Tennessee residency. A full list of required documents and location finder are available at tnrealid.gov.

For more information, visit tnrealid.gov.

United Way of South Central Tennessee invites the community to United in Spirits at Jack Daniels’ BBQ Hill on Saturday, May 17, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM. The evening will feature a gourmet dinner by Strawberry Moon Catering Co., live music by Arianna & The Bourbon Britches, sponsored by Common John Brewing Co., silent auction, and a special program highlighting United Way’s impact on local communities. Each ticket includes three drinks, dinner, and a commemorative wooden event coaster.

Proceeds will benefit local nonprofits and programs that support communities across South Central Tennessee. All guests will check in at the Tennessee Whiskey Trailhead,133 Lynchburg Highway, Lynchburg, TN, with buses departing from the parking lot at 4:45 PM to transport attendees to BBQ Hill for the main event.

“This event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors, volunteers, and community members,” says Ashley Abraham, Regional Director. “Our goal is to raise more to give more to our local community, and every contribution helps create lasting change in the areas of education, financial stability, and health. Thank you for making this possible!”

United Way extends its heartfelt thanks to our generous sponsors, including title sponsors, Jack Daniels and DOT Foods, and many more supporting sponsors.

Join United Way in empowering and uplifting our communities. To learn more about United in Spirits and to purchase tickets, please visit our website at https://www.yourlocaluw.org/unitedinspirits.

“The Child Advocacy Center is grateful to the entire Cannon and Rutherford Counties legislative delegations for unanimously supporting House Bill 641 and Senate Bill 450,” announced Child Advocacy Center director Sharon De Boer.  “We would like to extend special thanks to our local legislators who championed this bill and signed on as cosponsors: Sen. Shane Reeves, Sen. Dawn White, Rep. Michael Hale, Rep. Charlie Baum, Rep. Tim Rudd, and Rep. Bryan Terry.”

“During Child Abuse Prevention Month, Children’s Advocacy Centers of Tennessee (CACTN) proudly recognize and thank the One Hundred Fourteenth Tennessee General Assembly for passing unprecedented funding to strengthen the state’s response to child abuse,” stated CACTN Executive Director Stephen Woerner.

“This landmark funding shows that Tennessee’s leaders are committed to standing with our most vulnerable children,” continued Woerner, “By prioritizing Children’s Advocacy Centers, the General Assembly is making an investment in hope, healing, and justice for thousands of children in Tennessee.”

In a historic move, lawmakers have approved a significant increase in funding dedicated to Children’s Advocacy Centers across the state. This investment will directly support victims of child abuse.  The services that are supported in Cannon and Rutherford Counties include legally defensible forensic interviews of child victims, criminal court testimony, crisis counseling and case management for families, assistance navigating the complex criminal justice system, services for drug endangered children, and Darkness to Light child sexual abuse prevention training.

We are especially grateful to the members of the Senate and House Finance, Ways, and Means Committee, Judiciary Committee, and Children and Family Affairs Subcommittee for their leadership, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to protecting children. Their efforts were instrumental in passing this bill and making this funding a reality.

In April, communities across the state have been raising awareness about child abuse prevention. The General Assembly’s action highlights the importance of investing in early intervention and coordinated services that protect children, hold offenders accountable, and strengthen families.

Children’s Advocacy Centers serve as a model of effective public-private partnerships, working closely with Department of Children’s Services, law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office, Our Kids Center, and mental health professionals to ensure perpetrators are held accountable for their crimes and every child has an opportunity to heal and thrive.

“We are deeply grateful to every legislator who championed this funding and unanimously voted for the legislation,” De Boer concluded. “Together, we are making Cannon and Rutherford Counties a safer, stronger place for children.”

For more information about the Cannon County Child Advocacy Center and how you can help prevent child abuse, call (615) 563-9915 or visit cannoncac.org or the Child Advocacy Center of Rutherford County at (615) 867-9000 or cacrutherford.org.  

About The Savannah Grace Copeland Act
This bill is named in honor of Savannah Grace Copeland, a middle school student from Knox County who was tragically killed by another student. That student had a history of experiencing neglect, highlighting the broader issue of child-on-child violence as a serious concern alongside adult-on-child abuse.

The bill reflects a legislative commitment to strengthening early intervention efforts in cases of child abuse and neglect. It emphasizes the role of Child Advocacy Centers in identifying, interrupting, and addressing patterns of abuse and neglect, with the goal of preventing future tragedies similar to Savannah’s.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has announced that for the first time in history, the state’s annual budget includes additional dedicated, recurring General Fund dollars for transportation. The $80 million in recurring and $1 billion in non-recurring dollars will allow the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) to accelerate, leverage, and add new projects to the department’s fiscally constrained 10-Year Plan.

These funds build on the historic investments and authority granted to TDOT by the Tennessee General Assembly during the past three years, reinforcing the need to build efficiently and effectively to accommodate Tennessee’s exceptional growth. Today, TDOT also released its updated annual plan to include these added funds outlined in the recently passed budget.

“Tennesseans and all who travel through our state will benefit from the historic infrastructure investments we’ve made in partnership with the General Assembly,” said Governor Bill Lee. “I’m grateful for their partnership and willingness to strategically fund transportation projects without raising taxes or going into debt, and this 10-year plan is a bold approach to funding new projects while maintaining our aging infrastructure.”

The first-of-its-kind recurring General Fund dollars are made possible by reallocating a portion of the existing Tire Sales Tax revenue to TDOT. This innovative funding approach doesn’t raise taxes but does increase TDOT’s ability to deliver a higher level of service across Tennessee. This additional money is primarily planned for state-of-good-repair maintenance of pavement and bridges, ensuring the state’s existing infrastructure is properly maintained for years to come.

“This budget and these new investments in transportation and infrastructure will be a game-changer for our state,” said Lt. Governor Randy McNally. “Without raising taxes or debt, we’re accelerating projects, improving safety, and preparing our roads for the future. The General Assembly’s commitment ensures Tennessee stays strong, connected, and economically competitive.”

“Thanks to the strong partnership between TDOT and the General Assembly, we’ve made strategic, fiscally responsible investments that have helped accelerate key transportation projects across our state, without raising taxes or taking on debt,” said House Speaker Cameron Sexton. “This budget keeps Tennessee moving forward.”

The $1 billion non-recurring funding will be allocated to additional statewide projects, plus one-time investments in the department’s pavement, bridges, and the Spot Safety Program, and funding into the State Infrastructure Fund for local partnership transportation investments. The $80 million in recurring dollars will be allocated as follows:

• Pavement Preservation Program, leading to an additional 130 lane miles resurfaced annually.
• Bridge Preservation Program, leading to an additional 700,000 square feet of bridge deck treatment being repaired annually.
• Mowing and Litter Program, adding a mowing and litter cycle on interstates and state routes, improving service levels and safety for citizens.
• Spot Safety Program to address transportation safety concerns more efficiently and effectively for taxpayers.
• Rural Service Patrol, expanding our popular urban Help Truck Program to cover an additional 46 counties of rural Tennessee highways, increasing safety and service for all who traverse Tennessee’s rural interstates.

The updated 2025 10-Year Plan contains 96 projects, including Tennessee’s first new interstate trade route in 45 years. Additionally, TDOT introduced something new to the 10-Year Project Map: the checkered flag, which indicates projects delivered to construction.

“This 10-Year Plan shows that we’re keeping our promise of what gets started, gets finished,” said Deputy Governor & TDOT Commissioner Butch Eley. “TDOT delivered 100% of its 2024 projects. And in another step toward transparency and accountability, Tennesseans should notice new road signs before entering work zones showing expected construction completion dates.”

Also on schedule is TDOT’s first Choice Lanes project, the I-24 Southeast Corridor between Nashville and Murfreesboro. This project partners with the private sector to add two additional lanes in both directions at no additional cost to Tennessee. Additional corridors, such as I-65 in Nashville, I-40/I-75 in Knoxville, and I-24 in Chattanooga, have been identified as potential future projects in the Choice Lanes program to enhance regional mobility. Planning and environmental work are underway on the Nashville I-65 corridor priority investment project.

TDOT reevaluates the 10-Year Project Plan annually to adapt to new circumstances. Every project must be carefully assessed, considering many factors, including how it advances through the project delivery process, its importance to the community, and how it fits into the statewide transportation plan. TDOT’s prioritization process evaluates each project based on safety, cost, need, and deliverability. The thoughtful, dynamic, transparent, and accountable approach allows TDOT to move projects forward more effectively. For more information about the plan and strategy, visit TDOT’s Build With Us website.