The Georgia Department of Transportation announced on March 26 that a new SR 400 Incident Response Unit will start operating along the SR 400 Express Lanes Project corridor in April. The unit is being introduced as construction progresses on the express lanes, covering a 16-mile stretch to enhance roadway safety and improve traffic flow.
The launch of the SR 400 Incident Response Unit (IRU) aims to provide dedicated incident response coverage, working alongside Georgia DOT’s existing Highway Emergency Response Operators (HERO) program. This initiative is intended to support motorists and first responders during both construction and future operations of the new lanes.
Alan Davis, Permit and Operations Division Director at Georgia DOT, said, “Through this innovative partnership, we’re adding specialized resources to support our HERO operators to keep traffic moving along this corridor. The SR 400 Incident Response Unit reflects our shared commitment to proactive operations, faster incident response, and reliable travel on one of Georgia’s busiest corridors. Working alongside HERO, this unit will help ensure incidents are resolved quickly, enhancing public safety and improving traffic flow throughout construction and into the future.”
Javier Gutierrez, CEO of SR 400 Peach Partners, said that maintaining safe travel during construction remains a top priority: “The SR 400 Incident Response Unit adds designated resources that will work alongside HERO operators to quickly respond to incidents and help keep traffic moving along this critical corridor.” The IRU will operate around the clock—24 hours a day, seven days a week—to assist motorists with breakdowns or debris removal while supporting emergency responders.
A dedicated Traffic Management Center for SR 400 will monitor conditions continuously for faster detection and coordinated responses. The IRU forms part of Peach Partners’ private-sector obligation under its long-term agreement with Georgia DOT to design, build, finance, operate, and maintain the express lanes over an approximately 55-year period.
The SR 400 Express Lanes Project involves constructing tolled express lanes in both directions between North Springs MARTA Station in Fulton County and north of McFarland Parkway in Forsyth County. Heavy construction is scheduled to begin in April with completion anticipated by 2031; updates are available through official channels including “511ga.org” or by calling “511.” Motorists needing assistance should continue using these services for real-time information.
