KNOXVILLE (WVLT) – We are less than 90 days away from the start of a major interstate construction project in the region.

Starting on May 1st, a portion of I-40 through downtown Knoxville will be closed for more than a year.

The project marks the final phase of SmartFix40.

When construction begins, I-40 from Hall of Fame Drive, to the bridges just west of James White Parkway will be closed for 14 months.

"The major part of the project is to really reconstruct the section of I-40, and we'll do that with a full closure of I-40," said Travis Brickey, a TDOT spokesman.

Experts say the final phase will be the most difficult.

"We'll build nine bridges and 13 retaining walls, three sound walls, and a plethora of city streets,” said Brickey.

Though its only a short section of road, it will likely take some time getting use to getting around.

The exits will not be closed, but traffic traveling through Knoxville will be diverted onto I-640.

“It will be a little bit harder and we’ll have to make a few detours,” said Bill Tucker who often travels I-40. “I mean, it's already congested around that area anyway."

"It's all the extra gas and time that it would take," said Brandon O’Neal, who is concerned over the closure hitting him in the wallet.

Even if it is an inconvenience, TDOT officials believe it's the best solution.

"We're saving over two years of construction by basically just closing it, getting in, and getting out,” Brickey said.

In the end, TDOT expects the project to result in much smoother travel.

"We may have to take different roads and stuff, but I guess we'll get used to it," said Tucker

"It's always good in the end, but you have got to get to the end," said O’Neal.

The closure begins May 1st and is expected to be complete by the end of June 2009.

Even though none of the exits will close, Brickey said there will be some modifications made so that traffic can reach the interstate.