GDOT publishes response letter regarding road improvements around megasite

Buckle up North Bryan.

In just a few days, motorists who travel US 280 should expect changes ― that will continue over the next year.

“In the project area, traffic impacts should begin (night of Friday, April 12 to Saturday, April 13) and various temporary closures will continue as needed for the next year,” said Kyle Collins, communications and marketing strategist for the Georgia Department of Transportation.

Video: What once was a quiet road is now a standstill with morning traffic for Hyundai Metaplant

Other road improvements set to take place soon around the site include the frontage road, which is slated to open Dec. 31. No timetable was given as to when the project would begin. GDOT estimates 6,000 motorists will use the access road upon completion. A whopping 20,000 motorists are expected to use the road by 2027 and 25,000 by 2030.

But the biggest project of all is the I-16 and Cuyler Road Interchange. Construction is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2025.

GDOT is also renaming a small stretch of US 280 to Hyundai Way.

Updates: From road construction to building improvements, here's the status of 7 Bryan Co. projects

More: A life well lived: Remembering Kevin "Catfish" Jackson

GDOT recently published a response letter to residents regarding the aforementioned improvement and more.

Here are a few highlights:

Regarding stormwater runoff:

"The stormwater runoff from the proposed new roadway has been studied and would not negatively impact the surrounding homes. The project is required to ensure that the level of the flood zone would not increase. In cases where fill needs to be placed in the floodplain, the Design-Build Contractor is required to excavate an area that would replace the area that was filled. Bryan County, as the local floodplain manager, has been consulted on this approach."

Regarding the use of roundabouts:

"Studies have shown that roundabouts are a safer alternative to traffic signals and stop signs. The overall rate and severity of crashes are reduced with roundabouts because vehicles are all traveling in the same direction and at lower speeds. Roundabouts are designed to slow down traffic as vehicles approach and enter the intersection, and the tight circle of a roundabout also forces drivers to slow down. Additionally, the proposed roundabouts would be signed to help drivers navigate through and out of the roundabout."

Regarding homes on Old Cuyler Road:

"No direct impacts to any residences would occur as a result of the project. Residents along Old Cuyler Road may benefit from the new direct access to I-16 provided by the proposed interchange."

Latrice Williams is a general assignment reporter covering Bryan and Effingham County. She can be reached at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Road improvements around megasite to ramp up over the next year