Two Projects to See New Funding – Comment Now Until April 14

Two Henry County projects would see new funding under a proposed amendment to the transportation improvement program (TIP). The Atlanta Regional Commission is accepting public comments on TIP amendment 7 until April 14.

Residents can visit the ARC website to learn more how to submit their comments. ARC accepts comments via email.

TIP Amendment 7

Rock Quarry Road widening

Most notably, the ARC is recommending the Rock Quarry Road widening project receive over $13 million in new funding. This would be new federal dollars allocated for the project.

The Rock Quarry Road widening is on track to accept construction bids this summer. The last piece of right of way, owned by Henry County Water Authority, gained HCWA board approval in March to sell it to the county. County staff also completed the final field plan review last month. The most recent cost estimate for construction is about $30 million dollars.

The ARC previously budgeted $7 million dollars towards project construction. Henry County set aside $27 million dollars in transportation SPLOST for the road work. The new $13 million dollars in federal funds will reduce the local cost-share.

The new federal funds will free up T-SPLOST dollars. Other T-SPLOST dollars, such as the Jonesboro Road widening or McDonough Parkway extension, can then receive them.

Once the county accepts construction bids and the board awards a contract, then the build time is estimated at two years.

SR 42 Bridge Replacement

Secondly, another Henry County project would see new funding. TIP amendment 7 proposes to allocate an additional $10 million towards the state route 42 bridge replacement. This project is located between McDonough and Locust Grove at the railroad overpass. It is south of Harris Drive.

Recent cost estimates have this project costing close to $15 million dollars. The additional funding will keep the project on schedule for a 2025 start. The state previously moved the project to 2029 because of higher costs.

The current bridge there now dates back to 1938. The project will build a new bridge to the west of the current location. Building a new bridge next to the current one will allow the state to maintain traffic flow on state route 42 during construction. The estimated build time is one year.

The ARC board will consider adoption of TIP amendment 7 in May.

Featured image shows Rock Quarry Road at Hospital Drive. Google Streetview photo.