The state named Cavnue LLC to lead the effort, which will focus on improving safety, easing congestion, and testing connected freight systems in real-world conditions.

What This Pilot Is Designed to Do

This project marks the first time TDOT is dedicating a full initiative to smart freight technology. Instead of testing in controlled environments, the work will happen on an active freight corridor where traffic, delays, and day-to-day challenges are already part of the job.

“This project is TDOT’s first dedicated smart freight initiative, allowing the department to partner with Cavnue to test smart freight technologies in real-world conditions while the state maintains control of the roadway, data, and future decisions,” TDOT said. “In the coming months, the firm will begin project planning and design work under TDOT oversight. Upon TDOT approval, the project will advance to temporary on-road testing, followed by a final evaluation to inform future freight and infrastructure decisions.”

The goal is straightforward. Gather real data from actual operations and use it to guide long-term decisions on infrastructure and freight movement across the state.

What Will Happen on the Corridor

The pilot will roll out in phases, starting with planning and moving into live testing. Work includes:

• Detailed analysis of the corridor and existing infrastructure
• Development of how the system will operate day to day
• Installation of temporary roadside and in-cab technology
• Collection of real-time traffic and freight data
• Evaluation of safety performance and operational impact
• Ongoing coordination with stakeholders

This stretch of I-40 is already one of the busiest freight routes in Tennessee, and that traffic is only expected to increase with continued industrial growth around Blue Oval City.

“The I-40 corridor serves one of Tennessee’s busiest and most economically vital freight routes,” TDOT said. “With rapid industrial growth in West Tennessee, including major investments in and around Blue Oval City, freight volumes are expected to continue to increase in the coming years.”

Why This Matters for Freight Movement

The pilot is designed to answer some key questions about how emerging technology can actually perform under pressure. That includes whether connected systems can help reduce backups, improve response times during incidents, and make overall traffic flow more predictable.

TDOT is also looking at how these systems can work across multiple fleets, not just a single carrier or test group.

The full pilot is expected to run through 2028, covering everything from early design to a full year of performance evaluation once testing is complete.

A Step Toward Long-Term Changes

State leadership is framing this as part of a broader push to keep infrastructure aligned with how freight is evolving.

“Tennessee continues to lead the nation in building an innovative and efficient transportation network,” said Governor Bill Lee. “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.”

Transportation officials also see this as groundwork for what comes next.

“This pilot represents a forward-looking investment in Tennessee’s freight network and an important step toward preparing our infrastructure for the next generation of freight mobility,” said Will Reid, TDOT commissioner.

What Comes Next

The project is now moving into its planning and design phase, with testing to follow after state approval. More updates are expected as the work progresses.

For now, this corridor will serve as one of the first real looks at how connected freight technology performs where it matters most, out on the road with live traffic and active loads.

The post Tennessee Launches Smart Freight Corridor Pilot on I-40 Between Memphis and Blue Oval City appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The American Legion presents the honor each year to employers who go beyond words to actively support veterans transitioning into the civilian workforce.

A Workplace That Supports Veterans at Every Step

Averitt’s efforts are built on a foundation of firsthand understanding. The company’s chairman and CEO, Gary Sasser, served in the U.S. Marine Reserves and continues to champion veterans inside the organization.

“Our nation’s veterans bring a unique level of dedication, teamwork, and leadership to the workforce,” Sasser said. “We’re proud to stand beside them—not only in recognition, but through action that supports their careers and futures at Averitt.”

That support takes many forms—from hiring policies to training programs and flexible pathways for advancement. According to Averitt, nearly 15% of its current workforce consists of U.S. military veterans.

Building Career Paths from Military Experience

Veterans coming to Averitt benefit from structured transition support. The company provides CDL skills waiver assistance to applicants with military driving experience, helping streamline the certification process. They also offer dock-to-driver and driver-to-leadership programs that allow for clear professional growth within the company.

The company also extends support to spouses of service members, offering flexibility to transfer between locations and roles to accommodate active-duty relocations and family needs.

In addition to that, Averitt has a military pay differential policy: if an associate is called to active duty or training, the company provides up to 30 days of pay coverage and makes up the difference between military pay and Averitt wages when applicable.

Industry Recognition That Reflects Long-Term Action

The American Legion’s recognition adds to a growing list of acknowledgments for Averitt’s veteran programs. What sets them apart, though, is the consistency behind their promises.

Whether it’s through supportive policies, leadership that understands military service, or career programs tailored for veterans, Averitt’s approach is long-term and actionable.

For those interested in seeing what veteran employment looks like when it’s backed by a genuine commitment, Averitt’s programs provide a strong example.

To learn more about Averitt’s veteran hiring initiatives, visit averittcareers.com/military.

Image Source: Averitt
Source: The Trucker

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