Gov. Nathan Deal is lending is his support to building a new $140 million highway that would give trucks expanded access to the Port of Savannah.

Deal said in a statement Monday the project is a crucial investment not just for Savannah's booming seaport, but for Georgia's overall economy.

The proposal calls for building a four-lane highway covering 3.1 miles starting east of Interstate 95 and ending near the port's main gate. It would be used primarily by tractor-trailers hauling cargo to and from the Savannah port, the nation's fourth largest container port.

Georgia lawmakers have authorized selling up to $100 million in general obligation bonds to fund the project. The state Department of Transportation says construction could start by 2013.

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Yemaya Lyles (right) wipes away tears during a news conference in front of the Rockdale County Public Schools administration building on Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2023. Lyles' son, Antonio, was assaulted by a paraprofessional, who has since been fired and charged with battery. Lyles says her case against the school district has dragged on since then. (Miguel Martinez/AJC 2023)

Credit: Miguel Martinez