Major Road Closure in Macon for Bridge Construction

Construction of the bridge in Macon, Georgia over railway tracks

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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.