The Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) has announced the opening of a new ramp connecting Interstate 285 southbound to I-20 eastbound in DeKalb County. This development is part of the ongoing I-285/I-20 East Interchange project, aimed at improving safety and traffic flow in one of the nation’s most congested areas.
Weather permitting, the new ramp will be accessible overnight from Friday, May 30 into Saturday morning, May 31. If weather conditions are unfavorable, an alternate opening date is set for overnight on Saturday, May 31 into Sunday morning, June 1, 2025.
The newly constructed flyover ramp features a more gradual curve to reduce dramatic speed changes and potential crashes. “Motorists and the community have had a front row seat to the construction changes since we got started in 2023,” said Georgia DOT Project Manager Beau Quarles, P.E. He added, “We’re excited to share what we’ve been working so hard on as we open this first new flyover ramp to improve safety and the movement of vehicles through this interchange.”
The access point for the new ramp will occur just north of the existing one and will guide vehicles over the interchange to I-20 eastbound. At the end of the ramp, motorists can merge into a widened barrier-separated lane known as a collector-distributor lane. Drivers will still have options to exit onto Wesley Chapel Road or continue onto I-20 eastbound.
The flyover ramp maintains a two-lane configuration with an expanded inside shoulder. Temporary signage along I-285 alerts drivers about upcoming traffic shifts due to this new setup.
Construction schedules may change due to weather or other factors. Traffic updates will be provided through GA 511, Georgia DOT’s project website, and their social media channels. Motorists are advised to drive cautiously in work zones and stay informed about real-time traffic conditions by calling 511 or visiting http://www.511ga.org/.
