Drivers heading through the I-20 and I-285 interchange on Atlanta’s west side should brace for significant slowdowns as construction ramps up in the area.
The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has begun a new phase of its long-term improvement project focused on relieving traffic congestion at what’s been labeled one of the most problematic interchanges in the country. Crews are now preparing the ground for utility installation, and that means both blasting and traffic pacing are now part of the daily routine near Bolton Road.
According to GDOT, Traffic pacing will occur on I-285 southbound starting at Bolton Road from 10:30 a.m. to noon, Monday through Thursday, and is expected to continue through the end of summer.
Drivers should expect delays during those midday hours and keep in mind that these slowdowns are in addition to the evening construction that has already been affecting both I-20 and I-285. Lane closures and heavier congestion are expected to remain a challenge for the duration of the summer.
Controlled blasts are planned to safely clear space and allow progress on the next stages of the project. GDOT officials have advised that these operations are necessary to lay the groundwork for upcoming structural changes to the interchange.
Anyone commuting through the area—especially commercial drivers—may want to consider alternate routes or plan for extra time during peak construction hours.
Source: The Trucker
