GDOT begins paving I-85 in Atlanta as work continues on new bridge
The Georgia Department of Transportation is taking advantage of Atlanta's recent traffic apocalypse to repave a stretch of I-85 that's partly closed anyway.
The highway has been closed between I-75 and Ga. 400 since a fire destroyed a portion of the highway March 30. GDOT has vowed to reopen the stretch of I-85 by June 15, and has offered the contractor $3.1 million in incentives to get the work done even faster.
But in the meantime, it will begin paving a 6.6-mile stretch of I-85 from I-75 to Clairmont Road.
“Georgia DOT recognizes the inconveniences faced by motorists due to the closing of the I-85 at Piedmont Road area,” GDOT Commissioner Russell R. McMurry said. “We have carefully thought this through and determined that getting a jump on this essential resurfacing is an opportunity to limit the public’s stress and inconvenience, while also using our time and resources sensibly.”
The $22.9 million resurfacing project is expected to continue through next February. GDOT says there will be no daytime lane closures on weekdays for the resurfacing. Night work will begin tonight on northbound lanes and Sunday for southbound lanes.
About the Author
David Wickert writes about the state budget, finance and voting issues. Previously, he covered local government and politics in Gwinnett and Fulton counties. Before moving to Atlanta, he worked at newspapers in Illinois, Tennessee, Virginia and Washington.
