The Georgia Department of Transportation announced recently that it had substantially completed the I-285/I-20 East Interchange project to reconstruct what had previously been ranked as one of the worst bottlenecks in the country.
The project, located in DeKalb County, included eight bridges and more than 11 lane-miles of improvements. Using the Design-Build-Binance (DBF) model, the developer, East Interchange Builders, was able to reconstruct the interchange in three years. A key component of the Major Mobility Improvement Program to provide improved mobility in key freight and passenger corridors across the state, the East Interchange Project began construction in late 2023.
“This is another step in our commitment to Georgia drivers,” GDOT P3 Division Director Tim Matthews, said. “This project is a prime example of how strategic investments and coordination with our local stakeholders and municipalities can provide improvements for all Georgians. As we continue progressing the MMIP, projects like this are bringing tangible benefits to motorists in terms of safety and efficiency and moving Georgia infrastructure forward.”
Officials said DeKalb County is one of the most populous counties in Georgia, and the I-285 corridor is one of the most heavily traveled freight and passenger corridors in Metro Atlanta. At the start of construction, peak travel time average speeds in and around the interchange were as low as 26.1 miles per hour. Earlier this year, those times had improved to 55.7 miles per hour.
“Reconstructing this corridor has been a top priority for the Department,” GDOT Project Manager Beau Quarles said. “We’re thrilled to announce the completion of this project and a successful partnership with the East Interchange Builders. We’re confident that the additional lanes and safer, more efficient design will help address the concerns of the public and the growth of the region. We appreciate the patience of motorists, residents and stakeholders throughout construction and are proud to reach this important milestone.”
The new interchange includes two new overpass bridges, four mainline bridges on I-20 and I-285, and two flyover bridge ramps at the interchange. The improvements are in addition to the new and replacement noise walls, auxiliary lanes, and connecting lanes throughout the corridor. Officials said the improvements have already increased safety and efficiency in the area.