The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) recently selected a private-sector partner for an initiative that aims to improve safety, reduce congestion, and advance freight technology along I‑40 between Memphis and Blue Oval City.
The multi‑year Memphis/West Tennessee Smart Freight Corridor Pilot will evaluate connected and autonomous vehicle freight technologies in real‑world operating conditions.
“Tennessee continues to lead the nation in building an innovative and efficient transportation network,” Gov. Bill Lee said. “This pilot strengthens one of our most important freight corridors and supports continued economic development in West Tennessee. By embracing new technology, we’re ensuring our infrastructure keeps pace with the needs of Tennesseans and the industries that drive our economy.”
The department selected Washington, D.C.,-based Cavnue, an engineering and advisory firm specializing in infrastructure that enables the safe, efficient, and automated transportation of goods and people. Cavnue will conduct project planning and design work under TDOT oversight. After TDOT gives its approval, the project will move to temporary on‑road testing.
The project is expected to run through 2028 and will help the department better understand how emerging technologies can improve safety and reduce congestion, enhance incident response and system efficiency, and support connected freight applications across multiple fleets.