Gwinnett's 2nd diverging diamond interchange approved

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — The Gwinnett County Department of Transportation said a Snellville company will begin building the second diverging diamond interchange in Spring 2013.
 
The new traffic pattern will be on the bridge at Jimmy Carter Boulevard and Interstate 85.
 
"The Gwinnett Department of Transportation worked closely with the community improvement districts in these areas to design the diverging diamonds. We are pleased to partner with both groups to make mobility and livability improvements," Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairman Charlotte Nash said.
 
Gwinnett DOT said the new flow of traffic will switch drivers to the left side allowing a smoother left turn onto the interstate. The project will also include a new pedestrian walkway in the median, widening of the road, new sidewalks and new traffic signals.
 
The Board of Commissioners approved Tuesday the nearly $6 million contract with E.R. Snell Contractor, Inc. The Snellville company was the lowest of the three bidders for the contract.
 
Transportation Director Kim Conroy said, "The diverging diamond interchange is a cost-effective solution to relieve traffic congestion. As with the Pleasant Hill Road project, we estimate this interchange improvement will extend the useful life of the existing bridge by about 10 years with no widening needed."
 
Gwinnett DOT said the project should take about a year to complete.
 
Gwinnett County's first diverging diamond interchange is still under construction at Pleasant Hill Road.

WSBTV