Major delays expected on interstate for six months

CALHOUN, TENNESSEE - Major delays in both directions can be expected on Interstate 75 for the next six months because of construction work. <br> <br> The interstate is a main north-south route. It connects motorists traveling between Georgia/Florida and Michigan, Ohio and Kentucky. <br> <br> The construction work is some 35 miles northeast of Chattanooga. Workers are resurfacing the Hiwassee River bridge and replacing the expansion joints. <br> <br> ``It took us 1 1/2 half hours to get through it on Monday,&#39;&#39; said Keith Coleman, a Robbins Motor truck driver who regularly hauls wide loads. <br> <br> Charleston Police Capt. James Brock said traffic on the interstate Monday was backed up to the Riceville exit, about eight miles north of the construction. <br> <br> The $809,000 contract awarded to Southern Construction, Inc., is expected to be completed by the July 4 weekend.