Transportation Improvements and Construction Contracts in Georgia

Road resurfacing and bridge construction projects improving transportation in Georgia.

News Summary

The Georgia Department of Transportation has allocated $173.9 million for statewide transportation upgrades, including major resurfacing and bridge construction projects. Key initiatives consist of significant contracts for I-285 resurfacing and new bridge construction over multiple creeks in Bibb County. Public hearings have been held to discuss future funding, which could lead to $450 million in additional allocations over the next decade. These enhancements aim to improve road safety and traffic flow throughout the region.

Transportation Improvements on the Horizon in Georgia

The transportation scene in Georgia is set for significant upgrades as the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has awarded a staggering $173.9 million in contracts for statewide projects. With a total of 54 construction contracts now in play, many roadways across the region, particularly in southwest Georgia, will undergo essential enhancements aimed at improving road safety and traffic flow.

Major Projects in the Works

The highlights of the GDOT awards include a standout contract valued at $19.5 million for the resurfacing of 3.56 miles on I-285/State Route 407 in Clayton and Fulton counties. This specific project stretches from the west end of the airport tunnel to U.S. 29/State Route 14, a stretch of road that serves as a crucial artery for daily commuters.

Among these awarded contracts, 24 resurfacing projects constitute 54% of the total funding, which amounts to $93.5 million. A notable project under this category involves 16.49 miles of milling, plant mix resurfacing, and shoulder rehabilitation on State Road 112, commencing at the Worth County line and extending east of Baker Place. The completion of State Road 112 work is anticipated to wrap up by December 15, 2020, with a budget of $3.6 million awarded to The Scruggs Company from Hahira.

Bridge Construction on the Rise

In addition to road resurfacing, the second-largest contract—equally priced at $19.5 million—is directed toward constructing a mile-long bridge spanning U.S. 41/State Route 11/State Route 49 over multiple creeks in Bibb County. This bridge project consumes 12% of the total awarded funds, equating to $20.3 million.

Moreover, approximately $21 million will be focused on replacing outdated bridges, including those on Ellenton Omega Road in Colquitt County. The existing structures, built in 1936 and renovated in 1959, will be raised by three feet to ensure adequate clearance over the flood elevation established for a 100-year event. This particular endeavor has been awarded to Southern Concrete Construction Co. Inc., with a targeted completion by summer 2026.

Resurfacing Projects Across the Region

More resurfacing initiatives are lined up, notably on State Route 122 in Thomas County and State Route 91 in Dougherty County. Together, these projects cover a cumulative distance of 21 miles. Reames and Son Construction Co. Inc. secured a contract worth $5 million for the State Route 122 resurfacing, while Griffin Grading & Concrete LLC will undertake the $4.5 million contract for State Route 91—both expected to be finished by spring 2025.

Long-Term Impacts

A further $19.2 million has been earmarked for resurfacing I-75 through Turner and Crisp counties, covering about 14 miles of critical roadway last updated in 2003. This plan also includes rehabilitating the Loch Laurel Road bridge over I-75, set for completion by July 31, 2018. In Terrell County, two structurally deficient bridges at Chenubee Creek are scheduled for replacement by March 31, 2019.

Public Engagement and Future Funding

In an effort to keep the community informed, GDOT representatives recently held a public hearing to discuss regional transportation projects. Proposed plans could see an additional $450 million allocated over the next decade, dependent on voter approval. Of this projected funding, 25% will be distributed to counties based on a formula, while 75% will support a prioritized list of projects submitted by local officials.

As the dust settles on the awarded contracts, details regarding schedules, lane closures, and detours will be released ahead of the construction activities. For a complete breakdown of statewide projects under GDOT, interested parties can access the details online at www.dot.ga.gov.