The four-way stop at Bill Gardner Parkway and Lester Mill Road has been effective at reducing accident rates, but also a constant source of frustration for many area residents. Now, Henry County has approved the bid for a temporary traffic light at the intersection.
Henry County installed the four-way stop in February 2020 following several severe accidents and one fatality. In October of that same year, the board awarded a design contract for future improvements.
Temporary Traffic Light
The county recently accepted bids to install the temporary traffic light. Bids were due before Wednesday, October 20, at 3 pm.
The board of commissioners approved the bid on November 16. Reedwick, LLC of Villa Rica, GA submitted the lowest bid. The project cost is $69,327.00. The contractor will have ninety days to complete the work following the notice to proceed.
Barring any winter weather impacts, the new signal could be operational by February 2022. It will function similar to the light at state route 20 and Turner Church Road in McDonough.
Bill Gardner Parkway widening
The new signal is temporary because of widening plans along Bill Gardner Parkway. Design for the future widening may favor a roundabout instead of a traffic light. In addition, any turning lane improvements would be part of the widening project.
In 2020, the county received federal funds to assist in the design of widening Bill Gardner Parkway. The project extends between I-75 and state route 155. It will widen the road from two to four lanes.
Earlier this year, seventeen engineering firms applied for the design contract. County staff are reviewing the firms’ proposals before the board awards a contract.
Finally, the T-SPLOST referendum included $34 million for the project. The local funds will allow Henry County to build the project sooner than waiting on more federal funds. Voters approved the new local sales tax program earlier this month.
Featured image shows Bill Gardner Parkway at Lester Mill Road. Special photo. This article was updated following bid approval in November.
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