DEMOREST, Ga. — The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) announced that a traffic shift is scheduled for Monday, October 6, as crews move into the next phase of work on the Hazel Creek Bridge replacement project.
As part of this second phase of construction, traffic will be diverted to the east side of the bridge. This allows crews to demolish the remaining portion of the existing structure and continue building the new bridge.
Traffic shift
The $6.8 million project will replace the aging Hazel Creek Bridge with a modern structure designed to improve safety and traffic flow. Once complete, the new bridge will feature:
- two 12-foot travel lanes
- a 14-foot center turn lane
- 5.5-foot sidewalks for pedestrians
The roadway leading to the bridge will also be upgraded with:
- two 12-foot travel lanes
- A 14-foot center turn lane
- A 12-foot shoulder with curb and gutter, a grass strip, and a 5-foot sidewalk
The improvements cover approximately a quarter mile (0.26 miles) and are designed for a posted speed of 35 mph.
During construction, GDOT will keep traffic moving through the area, but motorists should be prepared for lane shifts beginning Monday, October 6. Drivers are urged to slow down and use caution in the work zone.
Phase 2 construction
Vertical Earth of Cumming was awarded the project in April 2023. That same year, in October, crews began relocating sewer and utility lines to prepare for construction.
The project is slightly behind schedule, primarily due to the weather. This first phase was expected to be completed in June.
According to GDOT, the second phase will include setting a temporary barrier, demolishing the last portion of the old bridge, and building out the remaining sections of the new bridge.
“GDOT thanks the public for its patience as we continue this important project to support growth and provide safer, more reliable travel for motorists in Habersham County,” the agency said in a statement.
The new bridge is expected to be completed by next spring.
