ATLANTA — The Georgia Department of transportation has announced a ceremonial groundbreaking for phase two of a widening project on Interstate 85.
Observing social distancing guidelines, the groundbreaking event was marked with a video produced by GDOT, which can be viewed online at https://youtu.be/RipBY6JwCmY.
The project will widen I-85 from two to three lanes in both directions from Ga. Highway 53 to just north of U.S. Highway 129, extending the widening already completed on I-85 earlier this year in the first phase of the project.
The widening project is part of the Major Mobility Investment Program, the largest investment in roadway mobility improvements in state history.
“I’m excited to see what this project, as well as the entire MMIP, brings to benefit our region and the state of Georgia,” said State Transportation Board Vice Chairman Emily Dunn, who represents the 9th Congressional District. “At the end of the day, we all share a common duty to the people of Georgia, and we look forward to improving the quality of our transportation system for years to come.”
The project will include replacement of one overpass bridge and six mainline bridges along I-85 through the Jackson County area. Construction officially began in October with paving and heavier construction are expected to start in early 2021. The project’s estimated completion is 2023.
“It’s great that we are able to add this capacity with the I-85 Widening, Phase 2 project,” said State Planning Director Jannine Miller. “The improvements this project will bring will provide more certainty and reliability in the delivery of cargo and will allow those in the freight industry to perform their jobs more efficiently.”
— Staff Reports
