The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) announced lane closures on Austell Road on Friday and Sunday overnights.  It’s for an ongoing project that will ultimately resurface the road from Veterans Memorial Highway near the Mableton/Austell city limits, to South Cobb Drive near Fair Oaks.

The GDOT press release described the scope and schedule of the work as follows:

“Contractors for the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) will install single lane closures on State Route 5/Austell Road (SR 5) this weekend as resurfacing activities continue on the roadway from SR 8/Veterans Memorial Highway to SR 280/South Cobb Drive in Cobb County. 

“Resurfacing improves the condition of the roadway and provides a smoother ride for drivers.  

“Weather and on-site conditions permitting, one alternating right or left lane will be closed on SR 5 the project area beginning 9 p.m. on Friday, October 20 and Sunday, October 21 until 6 a.m. the following mornings. 

“These lane closures will help ensure the safety of drivers and workers as crews continue milling, inlay and resurfacing operations on the roadway.  

“This $7 million resurfacing project is scheduled for completion in spring 2024.” 

Recommended safety precautions

The GDOT recommends the following safety precautions for drivers approaching the work zone:

As always, motorists traveling in the area are reminded to reduce their speeds in the work zone. Motorists are also encouraged to wear seatbelts, eliminate distractions behind the wheel, and plan their routes before getting on the road by calling 511 for real-time information on work status and traffic conditions.

About the Georgia Department of Transportation

The GDOT describes itself as follows:

“Georgia Department of Transportation plans, constructs and maintains Georgia’s state and federal highways. We’re involved in bridge, waterway, public transit, rail, general aviation, bike and pedestrian programs. 

“And we help local governments maintain their roads. Georgia DOT and its nearly 4,000 employees are committed to delivering a transportation system focused on innovation, safety, sustainability and mobility. 

“The Department’s vision is to boost Georgia’s competitiveness through leadership in transportation.”

The GDOT’s governing body is the 14-member State Transportation Board. The board is chosen by the state legislative delegations of each of the 14 congressional districts in Georgia. The board members serve five-year terms.

The board is currently chaired by Emily Dunn from the 9th Congressional District.

The State Transportation Board chooses the commissioner, currently Russell R. McMurry.