The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) expects construction of a connecting route for Highway 382 and 515 to finish by this July.
Right now, the total highway extension project is approximately 50 percent complete and its completion date is July 15, noted Joe Schulman, communications officer for GDOT District 6.
“The contractor is still excavating and placing crushed gravel for a temporary traffic shift on Old Highway 5. They’ve also been installing drainage structures and grading. The rain and winter weather have slowed the process,” he added.
It’s hoped that Gilmer County’s second roundabout, which will go in just south of where 382 and Old 5 intersect, will improve traffic flow while providing a safer way to navigate the heavily-traveled intersection.
Those who live in the area or use the two-lane roads should be aware those temporary traffic shifts (lane reductions) are expected to start on Old 5 within the next two to three weeks, the GDOT district office advised.
Other traffic shifts are expected to be done near the Dollar General store on 382.
“These shifts must take place to allow for construction of the roundabout,” Schulman noted.