TDOT to Replace Goshen Valley Bridge in Hawkins County

A decades-old bridge connecting several Hawkins County communities is set for replacement, with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) taking the lead on the project. State Reps. Gary Hicks, and Timothy Hill, along with State Sen. Bobby Harshbarger, announced the project this week, citing the bridge’s age and recent inspection findings as reasons for the upgrade.

A Long-Used Crossing Nearing Its Next Chapter

Built in 1964, the Goshen Valley Bridge stretches 874 feet across the Holston River, linking Rogersville, McPheeters Bend, and Church Hill. For generations, the bridge has served as a vital artery for residents traveling to work, school, and essential services.

While TDOT has confirmed that the bridge remains safe for use, a recent inspection led to a 10-ton weight limit on two-axle vehicles due to maintenance issues. Officials said that limit underscored the need for a complete replacement.

TDOT Takes the Helm

In coordination with Hawkins County leadership and local lawmakers, TDOT has agreed to manage the project and will soon begin the engineering and right-of-way acquisition phases.

“The Goshen Valley Bridge has been a familiar and essential route for me and countless others,” said Rep. Hicks. “This announcement marks an exciting step forward for Hawkins County and the surrounding region. I’m grateful for our strong local leadership and invaluable support from TDOT that made this possible.”

Rep. Hill noted that the improvements would have broad benefits across the community. “The Goshen Valley Bridge has been a critical part of how residents get to work, school, and essential services every day,” he said. “These improvements will make a real difference for families, commuters, and first responders alike.”

Cost Savings and Federal Support

The project will utilize federal off-system bridge funding, which covers the repair or replacement of bridges that are not part of the federal or state highway network. According to Sen. Harshbarger, this approach saves Hawkins County money and helps expedite the process.

“I’m proud to have worked with TDOT, Rep. Hicks, and Rep. Hill to find a solution that moves us toward a long-term fix,” said Harshbarger. “With TDOT managing the project and using federal bridge funds, we’re ensuring an efficient path forward.”

A Joint Effort in Local Infrastructure

Hawkins County Mayor Mark DeWitte said the agreement demonstrates the benefits of cooperation among multiple levels of government. “This outcome is the result of a strong collaborative effort among State Reps. Gary Hicks and Timothy Hill, and State Sen. Bobby Harshbarger, working closely with county leadership,” DeWitte said. “It shows what can be accomplished when local, state, and federal officials come together to address vital infrastructure needs.”

Broader Investment in Tennessee Roads

The replacement of the Goshen Valley Bridge is part of a larger statewide effort to strengthen Tennessee’s transportation network. Since 2023, the Tennessee General Assembly has allocated more than $4 billion to TDOT to accelerate existing road projects and fund new infrastructure in both rural and urban areas.

Preliminary engineering on the bridge replacement is expected to begin in 2026, according to TDOT.