Gov. Nathan Deal previewed findings by an independent, nationally recognized transportation firm, which conclude that new infrastructure investments statewide will improve safety, reduce congestion and have a positive economic impact on Georgia. The final study, performed by Cambridge Systematics and scheduled for release later this month, analyzed the potential impact of 11 planned projects throughout the state over the next decade.

“These results are a testament to the positive impact this investment will have on Georgians in the near future and in the long-term. This report confirms what we’ve been saying all along—that these projects will move the needle when it comes to driver and freight mobility,” said Deal. “As Georgia’s economy and population continues to grow, we will now boast a transportation system that keeps pace.

“Members of the General Assembly demonstrated courage and foresight in addressing this critical need with passage of the Transportation Funding Act of 2015. Their action, along with the expertise and efforts of Georgia Department of Transportation Commissioner Russell McMurry and GDOT Planning Director Jay Roberts, will improve the quality of life for all Georgians. Together, we will continue to ensure that Georgia remains the No. 1 place in the nation in which to do business, to raise a family and to live.”

The preliminary analysis projects significant savings in commute times once projects are completed by 2030. Of the 11 projects studied, findings include:

• I‑85 North Widening from Hamilton Mill Road to SR 211. Project reflects an additional general-purpose lane from the end of the current managed lanes at Hamilton Mill to SR 211. The project results in a total of 13 additional lane miles. Expected percentage of reduction in delay – 56 percent

• I‑85 North Widening from SR 211 to U.S. 129. Project reflects an additional general-purpose lane from SR 211 to U.S. 129. The project results in a total of 20 additional lane miles. Expected percentage of reduction in delay – 69 percent

• I‑75 Truck Lanes from SR 155 (McDonough) to I‑475. Project reflects addition of two truck lanes in northbound direction for a total of 76 additional lane miles. Expected percentage of reduction in delay – 40 percent

• I‑16 Widening from I‑516 to I‑95. Project reflects one general-purpose lane from I‑516 to I‑95, widened to the inside. The project results in a total of 12 additional lane miles. Expected percentage of reduction in delay – 32 percent

“I’m very excited about being able to advance these key major mobility improvement projects,” said McMurry. “They will bring significant improvements to the citizens of Georgia through the innovation of the design, build, finance model while ensuring our existing infrastructure is maintained in a state of good repair. I’m grateful to the State Transportation Board, the Georgia General Assembly and Gov. Deal for their leadership in advancing transportation infrastructure for Georgia.”

The complete project list and preliminary study results can be found here.

“Our commitment has always been to take care of our existing infrastructure,” said Roberts. “Through new, innovative funding methods, we have found a way to not only take care of our existing needs but also advance these 11 major projects. These 11 projects will significantly reduce congestion in this state.”