Bass Road Bridge Reconstruction to Begin

News Summary

Macon residents should prepare for significant changes as the Bass Road bridge reconstruction project commences on February 24. The existing 26-foot bridge will be replaced with a safer 43-foot structure, improving traffic flow and ensuring adequate clearance for trains. This six-month project will lead to temporary detours along Rivoli Drive and Forsyth Road, impacting local commutes. Completion is anticipated by August, bringing long-term benefits to the community. Residents are advised to plan for potential delays during this construction period.

Major Changes Ahead: Bass Road Bridge Reconstruction Set to Begin

Attention, Macon residents! Starting Monday, February 24, the much-anticipated closure of Bass Road will kick off, paving the way for a substantial bridge reconstruction project over the Norfolk Southern Railroad. This significant construction effort will profoundly impact daily commutes, lasting around six months.

A Closer Look at the Project

The main focus of this construction is the demolition of the existing bridge, which currently spans a mere 26 feet in width. In its place, a brand new structure is set to rise, boasting an impressive width of 43 feet. This upgrade is not just about space; safety is also a top priority. The new bridge will be elevated to meet minimum clearance requirements necessary for trains traversing below.

Alongside the bridge transformation, approximately 880 feet of roadway will be added to both sides of this new construction, expanding the total project length to about 2,000 feet (or 0.38 miles). Residents living within the closure zone will still have access to their homes, but it is crucial to approach from their respective sides of the ongoing construction.

Traffic Detours in Place

Rivoli Drive and Forsyth Road to safely bypass the construction area. This detour is aimed at mitigating delays and congestion, particularly during peak traffic hours.

Weather Challenges and Construction Impact

Construction timelines are often unpredictable, and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has noted that while work will continue regardless of the weather, severe conditions can cause delays. Factors such as rain, cold temperatures, and wet conditions are notorious for complicating construction efforts. Particularly sensitive concrete work can be adversely affected by rain during the curing process, which can lead to costly setbacks.

Despite these potential weather-related challenges, the ongoing interchange project appears to be ahead of schedule. This is a positive sign amidst the turmoil of construction-related disruptions.

Community Concerns

allow extra time for travel and gear up for possible delays.

Project Completion Anticipated by August

Prepare for the Next Six Months

Check back for updates and further information about the construction timeline, as local infrastructure is about to undergo an impressive transformation along Bass Road!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Brookhaven Drivers Face Traffic Delays This Week

Additional Resources

• 41 NBC News
• Wikipedia: Construction
• 13WMAZ
• Google Search: Bass Road Construction
• 41 NBC News
• Google Scholar: Bridge Closure
• 13WMAZ
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Delays