Newly realigned Butler Dr. open to traffic, Old Butler Dr. closed
Project Paves Way for Traffic Flow Enhancements Ahead of Anticipated Buc-ee’s Development
The newly realigned Butler Dr. is now open to traffic following construction of a new roadway. Old Butler Dr. is now closed to and from Joe B. Jackson Pkwy. Traffic controls are in-place.
The Murfreesboro City Council approved the construction agreement with Moody Excavating, LLC, Dec, 7, 2023, to realign Butler Drive. Moody Excavating submitted the lowest responsible bid with the estimated cost of construction at approximately $7.4 million and funded by FY21 and FY22 CIP budgets. Total cost of the overall project, including design, right of way acquisition, engineering services and construction of the full project is $9 million.
The project realigns Butler Drive to the west and ties it into Joe B. Jackson Parkway approximately 600 feet west of the current intersection. The 0.9-mile road realignment includes a three-lane, curb and gutter section with a sidewalk on each side. The realignment will minimize the intersection’s impact on the nearby interchange and is a committed project in the City’s 2040 Major Transportation Plan.
“The realignment relocates the intersection away from the interchange ramps, reducing potential weave problems by motorists and allowing the intersection to be signalized,” said Public Infrastructure Executive Director Chris Griffith. “Completed, the signalized intersection will provide better access to Joe B. Jackson for motorists and industries.”
As part of the overall project, Elam Rd. is realigned for the future Butler Drive intersection with Joe B. Jackson. Excavating of the property began in 2023 to make way for a 76,245 square foot Buc-ee’s convenience store and travel center along Joe B. Jackson and I-24. The Buc-ee’s will feature 120-fueling pumps, electric charging stations, and walking trail. In Tennessee, Buc-ee’s operates travel centers on I-40 in Crossville and Sevierville, Tennessee.
The old Butler Drive will remain in place to access existing properties but will no longer be a public connection to Joe B. Jackson Parkway.
