Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop Opens in Tennessee

In late June, Parton attended the grand opening of Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop off Interstate 65 in Cornersville, Tennessee. The location was formerly known as the Tennessean Travel Stop before being rebranded through her partnership.

During the opening ceremony, Parton said the travel center was created with truck drivers, families, and other travelers in mind.

“Well, the doors are open, and I could not be prouder. Whether you are hauling loads, hauling the family, or just passing through, we built this place for you. Good food, real rest, a little music, and people who are genuinely glad you stopped in. That’s what the road has always deserved, and that is what you will find here. Welcome home.”

She explained that her years spent traveling as an entertainer inspired her to become involved with the project and create a welcoming place for people spending time on the road.

Family Reflects on Her Legacy

Following her passing, Parton’s family released a statement describing her legacy of music, philanthropy and service to others.

“Dolly Parton’s legacy is one of love, compassion, and resilience. With a seven-decade career, she inspired multiple generations of artists and fans with her music and an unwavering commitment to making the world a better place. Her songs will continue to resonate with people of all ages, and her philanthropic work will have a lasting impact.”

A Lasting Stop Along Interstate 65

The opening of Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop became one of Parton’s final public appearances, and the Interstate 65 location now stands as part of her lasting connection to travelers and the professional drivers who pass through Tennessee each day.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 2, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Source: Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop

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Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop in Cornersville, Tennessee, will open to the public on June 24 at 2:30 p.m. The location is at Exit 22 off Interstate 65, about one hour south of Nashville and one hour northwest of Huntsville, Alabama.

Grand opening events are scheduled from June 24 through July 3.

Food, Coffee, and Giveaways Start the Celebration

Opening day will include food sampling from DLY BBQ, including new and returning items from the restaurant.

Guests will also be able to sample Cup of Ambition, Dolly’s coffee brand launched in partnership with Community Coffee.

Giveaways are planned throughout the afternoon while supplies last.

Tennessee Talent Will Take the Stage

Live music is scheduled throughout the grand opening period, beginning with Alison Nichols, Taylor Ocano, Lovella, and Songbird on June 24.

A Dollyoke event is planned for June 25, inviting guests to sing Dolly Parton songs, country favorites, and songs of the road.

Other scheduled performers during the week include TNT Acoustic, Mike Ponder Band, Brad and Eric, Southern Harmony, Audrey See, Scotty Freel, Dalton Lee, Tim Cannon, The Berrys, Thomas Heath, Taylor Teasley, and Rebecca Lee Daniels.

July 3 Celebration Will Bring Fireworks

The grand opening week will close on July 3 with a community celebration starting at 5 p.m.

The final evening is scheduled to include live music from Escape Band, a cornhole competition, bounce houses, raffle prizes, food trucks, ice cream, and fireworks after sunset.

For drivers traveling on I-65 through southern Tennessee, the opening adds a newly rebranded stop to watch along the Nashville-to-Huntsville route. Event details are available through Dolly’s Tennessean Travel Stop.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last Updated: June 23, 2026

Source: Truckers News

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The emergency declaration, which dates back to October, was initially renewed on November 8. The latest extension accommodates the specific requests from each state, with the new expiration dates as follows:

• Florida: December 2

• Georgia: December 11

• North Carolina: December 26

• Tennessee: December 26

This extension primarily benefits those involved in transporting essential supplies or operating utility service vehicles to restore critical services. Importantly, drivers providing direct assistance to hurricane recovery efforts are eligible for the relief, regardless of their trip’s origin.

Restrictions and Updates on Travel

Several roads in western North Carolina and Tennessee remain restricted to essential travel only. Additionally, vehicles longer than 30 feet are still prohibited on some routes.

While major road construction projects in North Carolina are paused for the Thanksgiving weekend, portions of key highways like Interstate 26 and Interstate 40 are still closed. Drivers planning trips in the area should proceed with caution.

Meanwhile, the National Weather Service in Morristown, Tennessee, has forecast potential snow accumulations and freezing conditions over the weekend, adding further challenges to travel in these regions.

Need Assistance?

For updates on road closures, routing assistance, or emergency declarations by state, the FMCSA has detailed resources available on its website.

Stay safe and informed as recovery efforts continue.

Source: Land Line

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Key Restrictions to Note

Though vehicles are now able to move, the interstate remains inaccessible to oversized loads that are more than 12 feet wide.

In a recent update on Facebook, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) stated:

“From MM 39 to MM 40, traffic will shift entirely to the westbound lanes, with one lane traveling each way. The westbound bridge has been given a temporary fix, allowing vehicles to safely cross the Nolichucky River.”

“Work continues on a permanent repair on the eastbound side. Once the eastbound bridge repair is complete, traffic will be shifted to the eastbound lanes so the permanent repair can be done on the westbound bridge.”

“Because the bridge is being shared by both directions of traffic, oversized loads CANNOT make it through.”

This partial reopening marks a crucial milestone, especially amid the ongoing closure of I-40 for commercial vehicles. TDOT appreciates the dedication of their team, stating, “We continue to be proud of the crews working to make this possible, even as we know the work isn’t over until every road is repaired.”

Stay Informed

For up-to-date information on road conditions and ongoing repairs, follow TDOT on their social media platforms and website.

Source: Truckers News

The post One Lane on Each Side Reopens on I-26 in Tennessee After Hurricane Helene appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Hurricane Helene has left significant damage across North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia. While the storm has moved on, the work to rebuild and restore continues. Here’s an update on ongoing efforts, road safety, and resources available to those affected.

North Carolina’s Relief Operations

Western North Carolina remains focused on search and rescue efforts, with teams dedicated to re-establishing essential services and delivering necessary supplies. Governor Roy Cooper underscores the extensive coordination involved, stating, “The response to this crisis so far has been a massive effort of coordination and logistics.” He further noted, “As emergency responders continue search and rescue operations in Western North Carolina, local, state, federal, private and non-profit partners continue to work in concert to provide food, water, shelter and other basic necessities for people in need.”

Travel in the region is hazardous, with approximately 400 roads closed. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) advises avoiding non-essential travel to aid recovery efforts and ensure emergency operations proceed smoothly. Resources deployed include over 1,500 employees, more than 1,500 trucks/graders/backhoes/loaders, 1,000 chainsaws, and over 8,000 barricades and signs.

NCDOT has also coordinated with the NC National Guard for ground operations and air drops. FEMA has begun distributing trailers filled with food and water. Over 20,000 residents have registered for assistance.

Shelters are available at:

• Biltmore Baptist Church, Buncombe County, 35 Clayton Road, Arden, NC 28704

• Grace Community Church, McDowell County, 5182 Highway 70 West, Marion, NC 28752

• First Baptist Church, Watauga County, 375 West King Street, Boone, NC 28607

To date, there have been over 440 rescues and about 4,700 evacuations. The confirmed death toll stands at 42, with expectations it may rise. For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergencies or to report missing persons, contact NC 211 at 1-888-892-1162. For further updates, email the North Carolina Joint Information Center at ncempio@ncdps.gov or call 919-825-2599. Additional resources are available at ncdps.gov/helene.

Recovery in Tennessee

Governor Bill Lee recently toured East Tennessee to survey the storm’s damage, highlighting the community’s resilience. “Maria and I are deeply saddened by the loss of life and severe flood damage in East Tennessee,” he said. “We continue to pray alongside Tennesseans as we endure this heartbreaking tragedy.”

With numerous roads and bridges impacted in Upper East Tennessee, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) warns that all routes should be treated as hazardous. Key structures like the Washingotn SR-81 Nolichucky River Bridge, Washington SR-353 Nolichucky River Bridge, Greene SR-107 Nolichucky River Bridge, Unicoi I-26 Bridge @MM 39.6 Eastbound, Unicoi I-26 Bridge @MM 39.6 Westbound face long-term closures due to extensive damage.

TDOT has mobilized around 400 team members to restore critical infrastructure, ensuring access to hospitals and shelters. For real-time updates, visit SmartWay or call 511.

Georgia’s Path to Recovery

Georgia’s recovery efforts focus on clearing debris and restoring road safety. Numerous routes are blocked by debris or downed power lines, and over 100 traffic signals, mainly in Lowndes County, were damaged. Scott Chambers, GDOT Southwest District Engineer, reassured, “We’re in pretty good shape.” Crews are actively clearing routes and restoring signals, with temporary stop signs in place at affected intersections.

Residents should treat malfunctioning traffic signals as four-way stops. GDOT is using larger contractor trailers to expedite debris removal. For local street debris removal inquiries, contact your local Emergency Management Agency.

Efforts to recover from Hurricane Helene continue across North Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia. Residents are urged to stay informed through local agencies and remain patient as recovery progresses. Visit local emergency management websites for the latest updates and assistance options.

The post Recovery and Travel Advisory for States Impacted by Hurricane Helene appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Coordinated Road Checks Across State Lines

This yearly campaign sees state and local law enforcement agencies from the five participating states working in unison to identify and remove impaired drivers from the roads. Officers will conduct simultaneous road checks across state borders, focusing on catching drunk and drugged drivers, while also issuing citations for speeding, distracted driving, and seatbelt violations, including improper car seat usage.

“We are fortunate to have neighbors who are as committed as we are in Georgia to saving lives on our roads and that they are always ready to work with us during the year on other projects that promote safe driving,” remarked Allen Poole, Director of the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. “Hands Across the Border sends a message to every driver in the southeast to slow down, buckle up, and drive sober and alert before the Labor Day holiday travel period.”

A Longstanding Tradition of Safety

The Hands Across the Border campaign began in 1991 as a friendly challenge between the Georgia State Patrol and the Florida Highway Patrol to see which state could reduce alcohol-related traffic deaths over Labor Day weekend. The initiative quickly expanded, with all states bordering Georgia now participating in joint road checks along their state lines. The primary aim of this effort is to intercept impaired drivers before the final holiday weekend of the summer, contributing to safer roads for all.

“Our ultimate goal at any time of year is to get dangerous drivers off the roads and help reduce traffic crashes, injuries and fatalities,” said Roger Hayes, Law Enforcement Services Director at GOHS. “But with a major travel weekend coming up and so many warm weather vacation destinations across the southeast, we want everyone to make sure they drive sober, put down their phones, slow down and that everyone in their vehicle is properly buckled up.”

Addressing the Southeast’s Traffic Fatality Rates

Campaigns like Hands Across the Border are crucial, especially given the concerning traffic fatality rates across the southeastern United States. In Georgia alone, there were 1,504 traffic-related deaths in 2018, a slight decrease from the 1,540 recorded in 2017. However, alcohol-related fatalities rose from 356 in 2017 to 375 in 2018, and speed-related deaths also saw an increase from 248 to 267 over the same period.

Hayes further emphasized the importance of this collaborative effort, stating, “We partner with our state line neighbors in communities along the South Carolina, Florida, and Tennessee borders for road checks, enforcement, and awareness. This isn’t about raising revenue, but rather lowering fatalities.”

Ensuring a Safer Labor Day Weekend

With millions expected to travel for Labor Day, the Hands Across the Border campaign plays a vital role in keeping drivers safe. By working together, these five states aim to make the roads safer and remind everyone of the importance of driving responsibly.

Source: The Trucker

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Among the recent improvements, two sites now offer truck wash services. These enhancements have introduced five new service bays, four truck wash bays, and three additional service trucks to Love’s extensive maintenance network nationwide.

Here’s a look at the new and upgraded locations next to Love’s Travel Stops:

• Salinas, California (new)

• Calvert City, Kentucky (upgraded)

• Wells, Nevada (upgraded)

• Sidney, Ohio (upgraded with added truck wash)

• Columbia, Tennessee (upgraded with added truck wash)

• Ranger, Texas (rebuilt)

These facilities provide a range of services, including tire replacement, lube services, light mechanical repairs, and roadside assistance, all at competitive prices. Love’s Truck Care and Speedco also serve as the exclusive warranty repair and recall service provider for Freightliner and International trucks.

With over 430 locations across the United States, Love’s Truck Care and Speedco boast more than 1,300 service bays and a fleet of 900 roadside service trucks, ensuring professional drivers and fleets receive top-notch care wherever they go.

Source: Truckers News

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TDOT has also noticed an increase in littering along the state’s roads and scenic byways during this season. They remind everyone that food waste is considered litter and attracts animals to roadways, which poses risks to both wildlife and drivers.

To combat this, TDOT has installed 80 bear-proof trash cans branded with “Nobody Trashes Tennessee” along seven of the state’s 13 scenic byways. These containers are designed to keep bears from accessing food waste, helping to protect them and maintain cleanliness.

Dan Gibbs, TWRA’s Black Bear Coordinator, emphasized the importance of keeping bears wild by not feeding them or leaving food accessible. TWRA receives over 1,200 bear conflict reports annually, mostly involving bears getting into trash.

Here are some guidelines to avoid dangerous encounters with bears:

• Never feed or approach bears.
• Store food in vehicles and away from tents while camping.
• Alter your route if you see a bear from a distance.
• Make noise to scare bears away.
• Stand your ground if approached; raise your arms to make yourself appear larger and use objects to defend yourself if necessary.
• Never run from a bear; if attacked, fight back aggressively.

For more information on bear safety, visit bearwise.org. Report any aggressive bear behavior to TWRA at tn.gov/twra/law-enforcement#accident.

Source: The Trucker

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The decision to modify the speed limits along the stretch between the Washington County line and the Virginia state line was prompted by recent comprehensive evaluations including “spot speed studies, crash analyses, and the continuity of speed zones,” according to the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT).

Gone are the existing speed differentials of 65 mph for cars and 55 mph for trucks; instead, a unified speed limit of 70 mph will be enforced for all vehicles traveling this corridor.

This decision was reached following input from various stakeholders, including feedback from the general public, law enforcement partners, and local municipalities. TDOT emphasizes that this adjustment aims to enhance overall road safety for the public.

In the coming week, TDOT crews will initiate the process of replacing signage along this route, subject to weather conditions. Motorists are advised to exercise heightened caution while navigating this area during the transition period, TDOT added.

Source: Overdrive

The post Split Speed Limit on Tennessee’s I-81 No Longer Enforceable appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Enacted in 2006, the law mandates drivers to either shift into an adjacent traffic lane when safe or decelerate when approaching emergency vehicles on the roadside. While the law doesn’t also apply to semis that are pulled over, it does encourage drivers to be more aware of vehicles pulled onto the shoulder.

In 2023, there have been 33 incidents of HELP trucks being struck while responding to emergencies, with five of these accidents occurring in November, as per a TDOT news release.

On Nov.  17, officers from the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Chattanooga Police Department, and Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office dedicated a total of 84 hours to the operation. They conducted 77 vehicle stops, issued 15 warnings, and issued nine citations for violations of the state’s Move Over Law. The hope is that everyone on the road will become more aware of vehicles on the shoulder of roadways.

“State law requires drivers to move over and slow down for emergency vehicles,” said Butch Eley, deputy governor and TDOT commissioner. “Working together with our extraordinary law enforcement partners, we can help change driver behavior and make it safer for everyone on the road. Crash responders can’t do their jobs if their lives are being put at risk.”

Tennessee imposes a maximum fine of up to $500 and a potential jail term of up to 30 days for violating the Move Over Law.

Source: The Trucker

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