The Georgia Department of Transportation announced on April 10 that construction activities for the I-16/I-75 Interchange Improvement Project will continue in Macon-Bibb from April 10 through April 17, weather permitting. Lane closures and new traffic patterns are scheduled as part of ongoing efforts to upgrade the interchange.
The project is significant because it aims to improve safety and mobility for local commuters, businesses, regional travelers, and commercial freight moving through Georgia. The $620 million megaproject involves widening and reconstructing both interstates and their interchange, with completion expected by 2030.
According to the department’s release, nightly right lane closures and pacing operations will occur on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and I-16 eastbound from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m. Additionally, long-term traffic shifts are being implemented: southbound I-75 drivers heading to I-16 eastbound will use newly constructed left lanes but lose direct access to the Spring Street exit ramp; they must detour via Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard instead. Northbound I-75 drivers can continue using the Spring Street exit as usual. These changes allow crews to construct pedestrian bridges over the Ocmulgee River.
Other ongoing work includes bridge construction at multiple locations, demolition of old ramps, installation of retaining walls along both directions of I-75, drainage improvements throughout the area, sidewalk repairs with ADA-compliant ramps, new street lighting on I-75, sound walls installation along northbound and southbound lanes, and evaluations for remaining work items near Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard.
The Georgia Department of Transportation delivers transportation solutions that support economic development across Georgia according to its official website. The agency employs about 4,000 staff members with an operating budget exceeding $4.5 billion according to its official website. Its responsibilities include developing state roadways while supporting rail transit programs according to its official website, operating under oversight from the State Transportation Board according to its official website, serving residents statewide through an extensive transportation network according to its official website, collaborating with local governments and federal agencies on infrastructure projects according to its official website, and overseeing one of the nation’s largest state transportation systems including roads, bridges, railways and more according to its official website.
Motorists are advised that dates may change due to weather or other factors; delays should be expected in affected areas. Drivers should exercise caution when traveling through work zones by reducing speed as needed. Real-time updates about project status or traffic conditions can be accessed by calling 511 or visiting www.511ga.org.
