The Georgia Department of Transportation announced on May 11 that construction activities for the I-16/I-75 Interchange Improvement Project in Macon-Bibb County will continue from May 1 through May 8. The department said lane closures and traffic pacing operations are scheduled nightly from May 4 to May 8, between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., affecting Spring Street and both directions of I-16 between mile markers one and two.
This project is significant because it aims to improve safety and mobility at a major interchange used by local commuters, regional travelers, businesses, and commercial freight moving across Georgia. The $620 million megaproject involves widening and reconstructing sections of I-16, I-75, and their interchange in seven phases expected to continue through 2030.
During the upcoming week, contractors will work on relocating poles and lines along Riverside Road as part of Phase 6. They will also install erosion control devices. In Phases 4 and 5, crews plan to advance bridge superstructure construction for ramps at Spring Street as well as new bridges over Second Street. Work includes pouring bridge deck spans on new eastbound structures, constructing entrance ramps, demolishing an old ramp to eastbound I-16, building retaining walls along both directions of I-75, and installing drainage systems throughout the area.
Phases two and three focus on repairing sidewalks with Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant ramps along I-75 from Hardeman Avenue to eastbound I-16. Installation of street lighting continues alongside construction of concrete sound barriers on northbound and southbound lanes. In Phase one—from the split at I-16/I-75 to Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard—crews are evaluating remaining work items.
The Georgia Department of Transportation advises motorists that dates may change due to weather or other factors; drivers should expect delays, exercise caution in work zones, reduce speed when traveling through affected areas, check real-time status online or via phone before heading out.
The department delivers transportation solutions supporting economic development statewide with about 4,000 employees working under an operating budget exceeding $4.5 billion according to the official website. Its efforts include maintaining highways while supporting railways, public transit programs, waterways infrastructure projects—and collaborating with local governments as well as federal agencies.
