Georgia Gov. Authorizes Funding to Improve Highway Safety

In the name of automobile safety and traffic flow issues, Gov. Sonny Perdue announced the Georgia Department of Transportation has awarded a $192 million contract for the long-anticipated reconstruction of the Interstate 20/520 interchange in Augusta.

Area motorists can expect to see the initial phases of construction begin within the next few weeks, according to the governor’s office. The project will require approximately three years to complete.

“This is a critical project for the Augusta area,” 10th Congressional District State Transportation Board Member Bill Kuhlke Jr. said. “It is important for safety and mobility reasons right now and will be extremely important as well for future growth and development in Richmond, Columbia and neighboring counties. I’m pleased we’re getting it underway.”

The $191,935,137.53 contract was awarded to a joint venture of two companies: Scott Bridge Company, Inc., of Opelika, Ala., and United Contractors of Great Falls, S.C.

“Major projects like this were very difficult to fund before we created the Fast Forward transportation program,” Perdue said. “This is a vital connection point in Augusta that needs a major overhaul.”

Detours and lane closures will be necessary throughout construction. Georgia DOT will implement several efforts, including traditional media, changeable message sign boards in and around the project area, and a dedicated internet web site to advise motorists of current conditions.

“Our interstate system in some places is 30 years old or more and that age is beginning to show,” added Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner Harold Linnenkohl. “This is one of a number of important interstate revitalization projects throughout Georgia that have been made possible by Governor Perdue’s innovative Fast Forward Program.”

Source: Office of the Governor of Georgia