March 2, 2025

Infrastructure Updates Create Traffic Challenges in Savannah, Georgia

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News Summary

Drivers in Savannah, Georgia are experiencing longer commutes due to ongoing construction on I-95 southbound. With two left lanes blocked, traffic congestion is expected to worsen until March 3rd. A larger $360 million project is also planned to widen a crucial 10-mile section of I-95. The expansion aims to enhance capacity and improve safety for the average of 64,000 vehicles using this route daily. Commuters are encouraged to stay informed about traffic conditions as further infrastructure projects loom.

Infrastructure Updates Create Traffic Challenges in Savannah, Georgia

As of Saturday, drivers traversing the roads in Savannah, Georgia are witnessing a significant change in their commute with reports of longer drive times and rising road congestion. This shift is primarily attributed to bridge work and road construction on the bustling I-95 southbound, which has been reduced to just one lane alongside the Ogeechee River. Residents and travelers alike are being urged to prepare for delays as the state’s Department of Transportation (GDOT) has confirmed ongoing construction activity that is impacting smooth traffic flow.

Current Construction Projects on I-95

Commencing Friday night, the construction on I-95 southbound before SR 144/Old Clyde Road involves the blocking of two left lanes, a situation that is contributing to the traffic situation that many drivers are now grappling with. GDOT estimates that this work is likely to continue until 5:00 a.m. on March 3rd. Updates and real-time traffic conditions can be monitored via the GDOT traffic map, ensuring that cannot only stay informed but also plan alternate routes if necessary.

Large-Scale 10-Mile Widening Project

In addition to the immediate construction impacting local traffic, the South Carolina Department of Transportation has announced an ambitious $360 million project designed specifically to widen a crucial 10-mile section of I-95. This project, which will stretch from just inside the Georgia state line to the U.S. 278 interchange in Hardeeville, is slated to kick off next year with a timeline aiming for completion by 2032. The expansion will incorporate a state-of-the-art six-lane bridge across the Savannah River, enhancing the capacity of this vital transportation corridor.

The Need for Infrastructure Improvement

This section of I-95 sees an average of 64,000 vehicles daily, thus underlining its importance for both personal and freight travel. A report from 2021 highlighted that this portion of highway is one of the worst rural interstates for freight movement, often leading to significant traffic bottlenecks for drivers traveling between Georgia and South Carolina. Notably, the two-lane conditions remain prevalent in both directions on the South Carolina side of the river, further complicating transit for both freight carriers and everyday commuters.

Support and Impact of Infrastructure Projects

Recognizing the critical need for these improvements, the Georgia Ports Authority has expressed strong backing for the widening project, citing its importance to improve both safety and efficiency for transportation. As work progresses, crews will engage in around-the-clock operations; however, it is anticipated that two lanes of traffic will be maintained during daytime hours, allowing for some continuity of commuter flow.

Future Road Maintenance and Planned Closures

In addition to projects on I-95, the upcoming 16@95 Improvement Projects will bring further lane closures on I-16 during its widening and reconstruction efforts at the I-16/I-95 Interchange. Specifically, closures are set to occur from September 9 through September 14, with both daytime and nighttime work from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., respectively. Detours will be strategically placed to guide motorists during these temporary closures.

Moreover, a long-term closure under I-16 is scheduled to take place from June 26, 2022, through May 31, 2025, which is expected to further challenge the daily commute through this frequently traveled area.

Conclusion: Remaining Vigilant on the Roads

Motorists are advised to expect delays, reduce speed, and remain alert while navigating through work zones in the vicinity of these infrastructure upgrades. Commuters can access crucial information about work status and traffic conditions through Georgia 511 or via their mobile application, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle the altered traffic environment in Savannah. As these projects unfold, their impact on daily travel will be closely monitored, with the hope that such developments will ultimately enhance the flow of traffic for years to come.