Motorists Can Expect Major Changes to I-20 This Spring

Weather permitting, the Georgia DOT will begin a major resurfacing and interchange reconstruction project on I-20 starting Friday, April 8.

Georgia DOT contractors will resurface all eastbound and westbound lanes on I-20. The resurfacing project is 15 miles long from Sweetwater Creek - just after Thornton Road (exit 44) - to Hill Street (exit 56 B).

Signing and striping modification will be included in the contract that are expected to improve safety and increase operating efficiency at I-20 eastbound at the I-285 northbound and southbound exits.

“Delineators will separate traffic exiting onto I-285 from traffic continuing east on I-20,” said Kathy Zahul, Metro District Engineer. “The new configuration will require motorists to make a lane decision earlier, thus reducing late weaving maneuvers and enhancing safety.”

The Georgia DOT awarded the project to C.W. Matthews Contracting Company, Incorporated and E.R. Snell Contractor, Incorporated for $39.9 million. The project is expected to be complete by December 2016.

“Interstate 20 is one of the major thoroughfares that connect the City of Atlanta to east and west metropolitan neighborhoods,” said Stacey Key, State Transportation Board member. “It is important that this roadway is well maintained for the truckers, citizens, and tourists traveling to and from Atlanta.”

Work on I-20 will require lane closures on weeknights, weekends, and some daytime shoulder closures. On the weekends, motorists should expect multiple lane closures. Crews and heavy equipment working in the road are expected to create delays. Further details on lane closures will be provided later.

Motorists traveling in the area are reminded to reduce their speeds while traveling through the work zone. Motorists are also encouraged to wear seatbelts, eliminate distractions behind the wheel, and plan their routes before getting on the road by calling 511 for real-time information on work status and traffic conditions.