News Summary
Liberty County is experiencing major traffic changes due to I-95 South construction, impacting local travel routes and affecting military exercises at Fort Stewart. Simultaneously, a new Publix shopping center is being developed, promising economic growth and creating jobs. Additionally, a $27.7 million highway bypass initiative aims to alleviate congestion along Highway 84, while Wawa plans to expand across Georgia. Local officials are prioritizing infrastructure improvements to manage increasing traffic volumes projected to rise significantly by 2035.
Traffic Diversions and Construction Activities Impacting Liberty County
Traffic in Liberty County is facing significant changes as construction on I-95 South at the Ogeechee River bridge mandates diversions to GA Highways 119 and 144. This alteration not only influences regular traffic patterns but also directs drivers through active military training areas at Fort Stewart.
During this period, the 3rd Infantry Division is conducting field training exercises, which are scheduled to continue until the end of the month. With the presence of soldiers and the movement of tanks and tactical vehicles, increased military traffic is anticipated on the roadways, making cautious driving essential for both military personnel and civilians.
New Publix Shopping Center Promises Economic Growth
In an exciting development for local residents, the groundbreaking of a new Publix shopping center took place alongside Highway 84 in Flemington, marking a significant addition to the community. Covering approximately 9.7 acres, the new store will encompass 46,791 square feet of retail space, with an extra 11,060 square feet allocated for additional retail activities. The center’s anticipated completion is slated for about nine months.
Local leaders are optimistic, with various county officials expressing pride in welcoming a business that is expected to benefit the entire county. The establishment aims to address the needs of Hinesville’s growing population, contributing to a more vibrant local economy.
Addressing Traffic Challenges with Infrastructure Improvements
In conjunction with the Publix development, a new traffic signal is set to be installed at the intersection of Highway 84 and Flemington Village Boulevard. Funded by a special purpose local option sales tax, the traffic light, which carries a cost of $300,000, is deemed crucial for managing congestion as regional traffic increases.
Following delays primarily due to infrastructure upgrades, including the installation of the traffic light, construction for the shopping center is now moving forward. Officials have confirmed that hiring for the construction is expected to commence soon, ramping up local employment opportunities.
Major Highway Bypass Initiative Announced
In a related note, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has announced a $27.7 million investment for the construction of a new bypass along Highway 84. This bypass will extend from the intersection of Highway 84 with Highway 119 and connect with current Highway 119 east of Walthourville.
The planned construction, projected to take two years, will feature two 12-foot lanes alongside 10-foot shoulders. Given a study’s indication that rerouting regional traffic away from the central section of Highway 84 is critical due to forecasted increases in traffic volume, this initiative is seen as a vital step towards enhancing travel efficiency.
Wawa’s Expansion in Georgia Continues
Additionally, Wawa, the popular convenience store chain, has unveiled plans to build six new locations across Georgia, with exciting new stores set to open by fall. Among the upcoming projects are locations planned for Hinesville and Pooler, with an overall goal of establishing 26 new stores in southern and coastal Georgia in the upcoming five to eight years.
Future Traffic Projections and Challenges
A study dating back to 2010 emphasized that approximately 40% of traffic on Highway 84 is considered regional, underscoring a pressing need for better traffic management. Projections indicate that traffic volumes on Highway 84 could increase by an astonishing 64% by 2035. A significant portion of this traffic comprises tractor-trailers heading towards Savannah’s bustling port, showcasing the ongoing challenge faced by local infrastructure.
With state leadership prioritizing investments in infrastructure improvements, these efforts are critical in accommodating the community’s anticipated growth and ensuring a reliable transportation network for all. Local officials continue to work diligently towards a brighter and more traffic-efficient future for Liberty County and beyond.
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Additional Resources
- Coastal Courier: New Publix Shopping Center
- Wikipedia: Publix
- WTOC: Traffic Light Delays Construction
- Google Search: Traffic Light Construction Delays
- Coastal Courier: 84 Bypass Project Funding
- Google Scholar: 84 Bypass Project
- CSP Daily News: Wawa Store Openings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wawa
- Coastal Courier: Hinesville Planning Growth
- Google News: Hinesville Urban Planning
