The Georgia Department of Transportation announced on May 22 that contractors will temporarily close interstate lanes as part of the I-285/I-20 West Interchange project in Fulton and Cobb counties. The closures, which are weather permitting, are scheduled to begin Tuesday, May 26 and continue through Saturday, May 30 during nighttime hours.
The lane closures are necessary for reconstruction and widening work at the interchange. The project includes rebuilding several system-to-system ramps and adding collector-distributor or connecting lanes, as well as auxiliary lanes along I-20 west and I-285 north of the interchange. Motorists should expect alternating single and double lane closures on both northbound and southbound directions of I-285 from Cascade Road to Bolton Road, US 78/Donald Lee Hollowell Parkway to SR 139/MLK Jr. Drive, and other nearby locations. Pacing operations will also occur on certain days between SR 280/South Cobb Drive to the I-20 Interchange.
Overnight ramp closures with detours are planned for various routes including I-20 westbound to I-285 northbound, I-285 northbound to I-20 westbound, and others. Each detour is scheduled so that no more than one ramp at the interchange is closed at a time. The department said holiday work restrictions will be in effect from noon Friday, May 22 until Tuesday night, May 26; no roadwork restricting traffic will take place during this period.
The Georgia Department of Transportation delivers transportation solutions that support economic development across Georgia; it employs about 4,000 staff members with an operating budget over $4.5 billion; it focuses on developing state roadways while supporting rail, transit and other programs; it operates under the State Transportation Board; serves the entire state through its network; and works with local governments as well as federal agencies—all according to the official website.
Motorists are advised by Georgia DOT officials to expect delays during these times: “Motorists are advised to expect delays, exercise caution, and reduce their speed while traveling through work zones, stay alert, and watch for workers.” Real-time information about traffic conditions can be found by calling 511 or visiting www.511ga.org.
