The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), US, has launched a three year, $1.5bn road infrastructure improvement programme for 96 individual project phases in 55 counties in the state.

The multimodal programme is aimed at improving the interstate system, adding truck climbing lanes, ramp enhancements and interchange reconstruction projects to address congestion issues, for access and safety.

Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam, while launching the programme, said: "This programme balances transportation needs across Tennessee, focusing on improvements to strategic corridors, maximising economic development opportunities and providing key safety improvements."

The multimodal plan will work on the ‘pay as you go’ philosophy of TDOT.

TDOT Commissioner John Schroer said they have worked diligently to develop a multimodal programme which maximises the dollars available to Tennessee and provides positive improvements in the state’s urban and rural areas.

"We are also continuing efforts to improve safety, reduce congestion and provide access to communities," Schroer added.

The programme will also include ten state-wide funding projects along strategic corridors, funding for ten transportation schemes, transit agencies, Metropolitan and Rural Planning Organisations and private non-profit organisations in all 95 counties in Tennessee.

TDOT will also administer funding for rehabilitation projects for shortline railways and bridges in several Tennessee counties, as well as programmes which provide for improvements at the state’s airports.