GDOT shuts down I-85 NB lanes for emergency repairs in Jackson County

The Georgia Department of Transportation has shut down lanes of Interstate 85 in Jackson County to make emergency bridge repairs.

The northbound lanes were closed Wednesday afternoon near exit 129 in Braselton.

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The closure is required to repair the concrete surface over the CSX Railroad. GDOT said their contractors working on the I-85 widening project noticed the bridge was damaged and notified the department.

One lane is expected to re-open Thursday afternoon. Officials said they hope to open the second lane late Friday weather permitting.

“Although this temporary detour will be a short-term inconvenience, Georgia DOT is working to protect motorists traveling this vital corridor,” said Georgia DOT Project Manager Butch Welch. “We’re grateful to the contractor for their quick, proactive actions to inform the Department and get to work repairing the bridge. We look forward to reopening the roadway as soon as possible.”

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Drivers can exit onto Ga. 53 and head toward Ga. 124 and Lewis Braselton Boulevard. After drivers turn left, they can drive for 9.9 miles to the roundabout and turn on Winder Highway to the Jefferson Bypass.

Once drivers are on the Jefferson Bypass, the detour continues for five miles back onto I-85 northbound.

GDOT urges drivers to prepare for the delays and watch out for workers in the construction zone.

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