What this tracks
This dataset maps the location and dimensions of road shoulders along interstates, state routes, and select locally maintained roads in Tennessee.
Why it matters to you
If you’re planning roadside work (like a food truck or construction), this data tells you exactly where paved shoulders exist—and how wide they are—so you can avoid fines for blocking unsafe areas. Truckers can check shoulder widths before pulling over for emergencies, and cyclists can identify safer routes with consistent shoulder space. For Shelby County drivers, it clarifies where breakdown lanes are usable versus nonexistent.
How to read this data
FEAT_DESC — The material of the shoulder, like “Asphalt Shoulder” or (if blank) unpaved.
LOC_DESC — Which side of the road the shoulder is on, such as “Right.”
WIDTH — Shoulder width in feet (sample: 10.43 means a 10-foot shoulder).
ROUTE — The road identifier, like “I0240” for Interstate 240.
Try it yourself
Look up your frequent commute route (e.g., I-40 or State Route 385) to see where shoulders are widest for emergency stops.