Q: I’ve recently noticed large emblems of highway number signs have been placed over the pavement in various locations on the Downtown Connector. How much does each emblem cost and who decides to install them?
— John Lovell, Newnan
A: The interstate number shields on the pavement on the Downtown Connector are part of a sign upgrade project that also includes replacing reflective sheeting and upgrading the sign panels to Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) standards. The cost of the entire project is $5.8 million, Georgia Department of Transportation spokeswoman Natalie Dale told Q&A on the News in an email. "This effort included adding these shields to enhance traffic mobility through the connector," Dale wrote. "The shields were strategically placed to encourage less weaving and lane changing by indicating what lane you should remain in to continue on 75 (or) 85 and what lanes you should use if you are planning to exit to downtown (and) Midtown."
Q: Was Paula Deen’s last cookbook published? If so, who published it?
— Jimmie Johnson, Cumming
A: Ballantine Books canceled the publication of "Paula Deen's New Testament: 250 Favorite Recipes, All Lightened Up" in June. It was the No. 1 seller on Amazon (pre-sales) when it was canceled, even though it wasn't due to be released until October. The Food Network and several corporations, including Sears, Target and Wal-Mart, ended their relationships with Deen last summer after it was learned she had used racial slurs in the past.
Andy Johnston wrote this column. Do you have a question about the news? We’ll try to get the answer. Call 404-222-2002 or email q&a@ajc.com (include name, phone and city).
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