At a tour of the I-85 construction site yesterday with U.S. Senator David Perdue (R-GA), Georgia DOT Commissioner Russell R. McMurry, P.E. announced that the Department is close to a final agreement with the contractor to expedite completion of the reconstruction of I-85 at Piedmont Road just south of GA 400.

C.W. Matthews Contracting Co., Inc., of Marietta, is being awarded the construction contract based upon the company’s availability, resources and expertise. C.W. Matthews provided similar response in 2001 when a tanker fire damaged I-285 over SR 400 and received high marks for efforts in that repair.

“We are pleased to award the contract to a Georgia-based company that has continued to do exceptional work for Georgia DOT and the people of Georgia over the years,” McMurry said. “In addition, at the direction of Governor Deal, we have incorporated early completion incentives into this agreement, similar to those that are often offered in the private sector.”

C.W. Matthews will be offered strong incentives to complete the project prior to June 15, 2017. If completed by May 25, the company will receive an additional $1.5 million.  If completed by May 21, they will receive $2 million and an additional $200,000 for each day completed before May 21; up to a maximum of $3.1 million.

I-85 is one of the main arteries through Metro Atlanta. Due to the significant impact the road closure has on people’s lives and businesses, Georgia DOT is focused on opening I-85 as quickly as possible, McMurry said.

“I am very impressed with how quickly Georgia DOT diagnosed the problem, completed the demolition and started construction, as well as how quickly this road will be re-opened,” Perdue said. “I’m talking with the White House, Secretary Chao and U.S. DOT. President Trump has promised $10 million in federal aid, and we’ve been assured that all federal regulatory requirements will be expedited. We are all hands on deck.”

The Department has made significant progress in less than two weeks – from demolition to removal of debris, engineering and design of the bridge, contract negotiations and now the rebuilding.  To date, progress at the construction site includes:

· All 13 columns that support the bridge structure have been poured.

· Pouring of concrete for the bridge caps (located on top of the columns) is underway.

· One third of the 61 beams needed have been cast.

Georgia DOT continues to remind motorists to plan ahead, seek alternative commuting options, allow plenty of time, be patient and always drive alert and keep calm behind the wheel.

The following resources will help motorists plan their commutes:

• Visit www.dot.ga.gov for the most up-to-date maps and information on road closures and alternate routes
• Visit www.511ga.org or dial 511 for routing information or to speak to an operator who can assist
• Visit Georgia Commute Options for additional resources and information about available cash incentives for using commute options
• Visit www.itsmarta.com for MARTA routes and schedules
• Visit www.xpressga.com for information on GRTA express routes

The Atlanta Regional Commission is providing alternate route options to commercial vehicles and large trucks to help them get through the region. These types of vehicles are also encouraged to only travel through the metro area during overnight hours and to take advantage of I-285 to bypass the city.