Emergency Bridge Repair Over I-85 in Jackson County Causing Massive Detour for Motorists

Bridge repair over I-85 Northbound in Jackson County is expected to cause some major traffic tie ups and headaches for motorists through today.

On Thursday, the Georgia Department of Transportation announced they have closed I-85 northbound at Exit 129 for emergency bridge deck repairs.

This closure is required to repair the concrete surface over the CSX Railroad.
Contractors working on the I-85 Phase 2 widening project noticed damaged concrete and immediately notified Georgia DOT officials and closed an outside lane earlier today

Work is underway with crews active around the clock to repair the bridge deck. One lane was re-opened Thursday afternoon.

Both lanes of I-85 northbound are anticipated to reopen late Friday, March 18, weather permitting.

Georgia DOT Project Manager Butch Welch said during the closure, motorists should exit I-85 northbound at Exit 129, turning right onto State Route (SR) 53, then travel approximately 0.3 miles and turn left onto SR 124/Lewis Braselton Boulevard.

Then continue along SR 124 for approximately 9.9 miles. At the roundabout, take the third exit onto SR 11/Winder Hwy.

Motorists will then travel approximately 1.5 miles to US 129/Jefferson Bypass. Motorists should then turn left onto US 129/Jefferson Bypass and continue for approximately five miles. Motorists will then turn right to merge onto I-85 northbound.

Motorists are advised to exercise caution and travel safely through the detour, following posted speed limits on local roads.