News Summary
Macon, Georgia, has announced a significant road closure on Bass Road due to bridge construction expected to last for six months. The project aims to upgrade an existing bridge over the Norfolk Southern train tracks, expanding its width from 26 to 43 feet. Traffic detours are in place to minimize disruption, and local residents remain optimistic about the long-term benefits of enhanced infrastructure. The project is estimated to cost around $11 million and will create a better traffic flow in the area.
Major Road Closure in Macon for Bridge Construction
A section of Bass Road in Macon, Georgia, has officially shut down, impacting motorists for the next six months as construction on a much-anticipated bridge project gets underway. The closure specifically affects the stretch of Bass Road leading towards Zebulon Road and is set to last for an extensive period of 180 days.
Construction Begins with Heightened Expectations
The main focus of the construction is a bridge that spans over the Norfolk Southern train tracks. Significant improvements are on the horizon, as the existing bridge, which was deemed poor and below the state’s standard assessments, will undergo an expansion and elevation process. The width of the bridge is to be increased dramatically from 26 feet to 43 feet, which will not only elevate it above the tracks but also enhance the overall traffic flow in the area.
Initially, the bridge closure was slated to commence on February 17; however, complications with contractors postponed this timeline. After further discussions, the closure was reset to start on a Tuesday morning, ensuring that work can commence effectively from day one and reduce the risks of extending the pre-established closure timeline.
Efficient Traffic Management During the Closure
In light of the upcoming construction, detour routes have been devised for drivers needing access to Zebulon Road. Local residents are reassured that they will still have access to their homes from their respective sides of the closure. Commuters will be redirected to travel via Rivoli Drive and Forsyth Road as part of the detour strategy. This initiative aims to ensure that daily activities and businesses in the area experience minimal disruption during the six-month construction period.
Cost and Scope of the Construction Project
The expected expenditure for the entire construction project is around $11 million. This extensive undertaking will cover a total length of approximately 2,000 feet (0.38 miles), which includes around 880 feet of roadway leading to and from the bridge on both sides. Additionally, the project will feature enhancements including a paving of an additional four-foot shoulder throughout the construction limits and an expanded eight-foot shoulder specifically on the bridge itself.
Community Optimism and Infrastructure Goals
Local residents have welcomed the project with optimism, anticipating that once finished, it will not only enhance traffic flow but also draw more customers to nearby businesses. As the transformation unfolds, GDOT’s commitment to raising the bridge to satisfy minimum height requirements over the railroad aligns seamlessly with broader infrastructure initiatives aimed at improving the region’s road systems.
During this construction period, residents and commuters are advised to plan their travel times accordingly, allowing for potential delays as roadwork progresses. While the closure may pose temporary challenges, the long-term benefits of improved infrastructure are sure to create lasting positive impact on the community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- 13WMAZ: Bass Road Bridge Project Officially Begins
- Wikipedia: Bridge Construction
- 41 NBC: Construction in Macon Closes Bridge
- Google Search: Bass Road Bridge Project
- 13WMAZ: Macon Residents Happy about Bass Road Bridge Project
- Google Scholar: Bass Road Bridge
- 13WMAZ: Bass Road Construction Road Closures Pushed Back
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Bridge
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
