DEMOREST – The Georgia Department of Transportation is taking an online approach to gathering public input regarding a proposed roundabout at the intersection of Ga. 105 (Cannon Bridge Road) and Ga. 115 in Habersham County.
“In keeping with Gov. Brian Kemp’s directive to keep state government agencies functioning as Georgia combats the COVID-19 pandemic, Georgia DOT is moving forward by placing project information and coordination into a web-based platform so that there will be no need for direct face-to-face contact,” a postcard sent to residents near the intersection reads.
Located between Clarkesville and Cleveland, the project’s purpose is to address the operational performance of the intersection and reduce potential for collisions there.
The intersection is an all-way stop, controlled with stop signs and overhead flashing beacons. All approaches are single-lane, but the eastbound and southbound approaches also have channelized right-turn lanes controlled by yield signs.
“We are currently in preliminary design of this project and have posted this website to gather information from the public as well as share information that we have gathered,” a letter from GDOT State Environmental Administrator Eric Duff reads.
“The elliptical roundabout would consist of a 20-foot travel lane with an 18-foot wide truck apron,” the open house handout states. “Curb and gutter would be installed along the outside of the roundabout with a mountable curb along the inside of the truck apron. Additional right-of-way would be needed.”
After the public input, revisions may occur to the proposed plan initially brought to the public, or the no build alternative will be selected. If no major changes are proposed, the project would advance to right-of-way acquisition and move into final design.
After any necessary right-of-way acquisition occurs, project design would be finalized, and the project would advance to construction.
The comment card included on the public information website asks whether the person completing it is for, against or would conditionally be in favor of the roundabout project and allows room for comments.
The comment period is open until July 31.
The conceptual drawing, handout and a comment card are available online at http:/www.dot.ga.gov/AboutGDOT/PublicOutreach.
The modern, single-lane roundabout conversion is project No. 0013861.
