Drivers concerned I-40 near Exit 87 is unsafe

JACKSON, Tenn. — Jackson drivers share concerns over Exit 87 congestion after a recent three-vehicle wreck.

A WBBJ 7 Eyewitness News viewer reached out to us after seeing the footage from a Wednesday afternoon crash.

He said he was concerned the area is a constant hazard to drivers, something Jackson driver Larry Evans agrees with.

“It’s hard to get on the interstate there,” Evans said.

Nichole Lawrence with the Tennessee Department of Transportation said the area near the ramp and mile marker 87 doesn’t have a significant history of wrecks.

TDOT said they are in the early planning stages of a project that could help eliminate congestion in the area. Once funded, the project would widen portions of the interstate near Exit 87.

Drivers we spoke with said blind spots seem to be an issue near the ramp.

“When you’re getting on and off an exit anywhere along the interstate or any interchange, just make sure that you slow down enough that you’re merging,” Lawrence said.

She said coming to a complete stop is not recommended when traveling with traffic at a high rate of speed.

State officials said busier roadways tend to come with the summer months.

If you have a concern over a state road, you can leave a comment with TDOT.