G-DOT proposes new interstate project to drivers

DEKALB COUNTY, Ga — The Georgia Department of Transportation proposed a project that will make the transition between I-285 and Georgia 400 easier for drivers.

GDOT held the first of three public meetings Tuesday that  gave drivers a preview of proposed projects on the busy interstate exchange. Tens of thousands of cars move through the interchange daily and GDOT told Channel 2’s Mike Petchenik that it’s the busiest interchange in the area.  The proposal also included alternate ways for people to exit off of each highway to prevent congestion.

On 400, that would include flyover bridges to and from 285. On 285, that would include special collector and distributor exits to keep traffic flowing on the highway itself.

"The interchange at 285 and 400 is beyond capacity at this point," GDOT spokeswoman Natalie Dale said.

That's why Dale says the department plans to overhaul the interchange.

"We have to come up with a solution at this point to really unlock this section of 285," Dale said.

Drivers say they’re optimistic about the changes.

“I think it’s going to disrupt traffic for a while, but hopefully it will be a long term benefit. I just wanted to see what was going on,” Allen Karlebach said.

“If they can make it safer for us, that’s fine. A disruption for us, but we’ll put up with it,” commuter JoAnn Karlebach said.

GDOT officials are holding two more meetings Thursday. They want all feedback back by Sept. 5.

WSBTV