Interchange Project Coming to Gravel Springs Road At I-85

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA — A project to clear up traffic congestion around Gravel Springs Road and Interstate 85 is in the works.

Gwinnett County commissioners have made a deal with the Georgia Department of Transportation to acquire right of way for an interchange project at Gravel Springs Road (State Route 324) and I-85.

"Having talked with community leaders throughout the area, we understand that traffic on the two lane connectors crossing the county between Buford and Dacula over I-85 are overloaded," said District 4 Commissioner John Heard. "Putting these ramps onto the interstate from the State Route 324 four-lane connector will tremendously relieve traffic at these two lane-lane crossings.

"The simple addition of these ramps will change the traffic dynamic in the entire northeast quadrant of the county."

Agents acting on behalf of Gwinnett County will acquire the right of way, and federal funds will reimburse up to nearly $6 million for eligible expenses. Total right-of-way expenses are estimated at $7.5 million for this project.

The joint venture at the State Route 324 at I-85 interchange has been in the works for some time. A combination of federal, state and local sales tax funds are being used to achieve the engineering and right-of-way phases of the project. The construction phase is to be completed with federal and state funds.

Last August, Gwinnett County accepted a $2 million state grant from the State Road and Tollway Authority to begin right-of-way acquisition. This reimbursement agreement will help further that effort.

It is expected that the Georgia DOT will oversee the construction of the project.

While the right of way is being acquired, Gresham Smith and Partners will be finalizing construction plans.

The state expects to let the project to construction by late 2018. Construction is anticipated to take 18 months, weather permitting.

Gwinnett Department of Transportation Director Alan Chapman said, "While there is an existing bridge over I-85, additional work is required to allow for the on and off-ramps. We will also add turn lanes and traffic signals at the intersection of these ramps with State Route 324."

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