Lane Closures on I-55 Southbound and Kings' Crossing Bridge Updates for January 21

Morning Traffic Overview

Memphis commuters should prepare for a mix of scheduled maintenance and long-term infrastructure projects impacting the Wednesday morning drive. As of today, January 21, 2026, the primary point of congestion remains on the southern stretch of the city's interstate system due to ongoing maintenance operations.

I-55 Southbound Lane Restrictions

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has confirmed that scheduled roadwork continues on Interstate 55 Southbound in Shelby County. Drivers should expect the left lane to be blocked at Mile Marker 3.6. This maintenance activity, which began earlier this month, also involves a left shoulder closure in the four-lane section. Commuters traveling from the Downtown area toward the Mississippi state line should anticipate moderate delays and are encouraged to move to the right lanes well in advance of the work zone.

Kings' Crossing: America’s River Crossing Project

Progress continues on the replacement of the 75-year-old I-55 Mississippi River bridge. Now officially named 'Kings' Crossing' to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., B.B. King, and Elvis Presley, the massive $900 million project is moving into its early construction phases this year. While the main span remains open for travel today, preliminary fieldwork and environmental preparations are visible near the site. Motorists are advised to keep a steady speed when crossing the span, as increased technical activity and surveying crews may be present on the shoulders.

MATA Public Transit Alerts

The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) reports that most fixed-route buses are operating on a standard weekday schedule following the recent holiday weekend. However, passengers on Route 4 should be aware of active detours that have been in place to accommodate local utility work. Additionally, with the conclusion of recent commemorations in the Downtown area, all routes that were previously detoured near the William Hudson Transit Center have returned to their regular paths. Riders are encouraged to use the MATA Tracker for real-time bus locations to avoid waiting in the cold morning temperatures.

Regional Arteries and Construction

• I-40 Widening: Preparatory work is ongoing for the widening of I-40 between Germantown Road and SR 205. While no major lane closures are reported for today's peak hours, expect heavy machinery on the medians.
• Summer Avenue: The widening project near Summer Avenue continues to impact local flow. Minor shifts in traffic patterns are expected between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
• I-240 Loop: Traffic is flowing at normal speeds, though the usual congestion is expected near the I-40/I-240 interchange during the evening rush.

Safety remains the top priority. Please slow down in work zones and stay alert for TDOT Help trucks assisting motorists on the shoulders of the I-240 loop.