Fayette County has approved a draft contract with the Georgia Department of Transportation to move ahead with a study regarding development along Ga. Hwy. 74 south of Interstate 85.

The Fayette commissioners unanimously approved the draft on Feb. 9 after receiving written confirmation from Fairburn Mayor Mario Avery that the city would continue to abide by the initial objectives of the Gateway Coalition, which seeks to reduce traffic congestion and improve the visual appeal of the area. The study will cost about $390,000, of which Fayette will pay $78,000 from transportation SPLOST funds. The remaining funding will come from federal grants.