AUGUSTA, Ga. – Delays Prolong Interstate 20 Bridge Project
For nearly half a decade, Interstate 20 bridge over the Savannah River has been a scene of construction chaos marked by orange cones, a barrage of red tail lights, cranes, and detours. The ongoing phase of construction, congestion, and irritation has become a new normal for commuters navigating between state lines.
“It’s definitely been a longer road than we anticipated,” admitted Georgia Department of Transportation spokesman Kyle Collins. Initially set for completion in January, the project faced subsequent delays pushing the deadline to September.
The Current Standing of the I-20 Bridge Project
The current focus of the project lies on replacement and expansion. The vast $73 million project aims to replace the existing four lanes with six, offering better traffic management and smoother connectivity over the Savannah River and Augusta Canal.
“We have also planned to add an extra lane and extra-wide shoulders on the inside and outside, extending to 12 feet,” elaborated Collins. Despite the extensive length of the project, sections of the new infrastructure have already been delivered during the recent stage shifts, marking significant progress in the endeavor.
Challenges and Delays in the Project
The project faced multiple delays due to unforeseen circumstances such as the COVID-19 pandemic, supply chain difficulties, contract issues, and erratic weather. This series of setbacks led to the project extending far beyond the initial completion date.
“Construction is challenging, especially with live traffic. While it’d be ideal to have everything closed down for speedy construction under perfect weather conditions, field realities are far from this,” explained Collins. To ensure accountability, the Georgia Department of Transportation is working with the contract partner and negotiating possible financial penalties for the delay.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the I-20 Project
In the upcoming months, the focus will primarily be on the South Carolina side to complete final touches on the medium barrier and the roadway. “That is the big push in the next few weeks – to open up all three lanes to traffic in both directions,” indicated Collins.
While the official end date for the extensive project is tentatively set for late September or early October, some minor works such as road signs, cleanup, and corrective work striping will continue thereafter. Hence, commuters can expect all six lanes to be open by fall, marking the end of the protracted construction phase on the I-20 bridge.
