I-85 Widening, Phase III Project Opens Additional Lane

Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) contractors have opened an additional lane on Interstate 85 northbound from mile marker (MM) 137 to MM 143, as part of the I-85 Widening, Phase III project (PI # 0015245). This opening marks a significant milestone, ahead of the final completion anticipated in Q4 2024.

The 13-mile project is widening I-85 northbound and southbound from two to three lanes from US 129 to US 441. Construction is also replacing and widening four mainline bridges in two locations. This builds upon the widening completed as part of the previous I-85 Widening, Phase 1 and Phase 2 projects. These projects are part of the long-range plan to widen I-85 to the South Carolina state line increasing capacity and improving traffic flow through the corridor.

“Together with our construction partners, the Department is excited to deliver another segment of improvements along I-85 creating a safer, more efficient roadway for motorists. We are excited to celebrate this milestone and build upon this progress to complete the project coming up,” said Georgia DOT Project Manager Alicia Ashburn.

Coming up, crews will finalize the additional lane on I-85 southbound and anticipate opening the third lane the following week. Work replacing the mainline bridges is ongoing.

The anticipated opening of the southbound lane is weather dependent, and Georgia DOT will provide updates via social media channels. Motorists are advised to drive cautiously through the active work zone obeying the posted speed limits.

ADVISORY: The exact time may change due to weather conditions. Before heading out, get real-time information on work status and traffic conditions. Call 511, visit 511ga.org, or download the Georgia 511 app.

The information in this media release was accurate at the time of publication. Additional project information is available at I-85 Widening, Phase III Design-Build Project.