January 2026
Inside this Newsletter:
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Work along the State Route (SR) 316 corridor continues to move forward, with multiple areas of visible progress throughout Barrow County.
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Earthwork activities remain active across the project limits as crews continue shaping the roadway and preparing areas for future paving. Construction of the new frontage roads near Craft Road and McCarty Road, as well as improvements at Barber Creek Road and Bethlehem Road, are advancing steadily as grading operations approach completion in several locations.
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In addition, crews have completed base construction, the foundational layer beneath the pavement, in multiple areas, including sections of the frontage and access roads. With this critical work in place, these areas are nearing readiness for paving once inspections are complete.
Drainage installation is also progressing along SR 316. Crews remain active near the new Bethlehem Road roundabout and throughout the corridor, installing stormwater systems designed to support long-term stormwater management and roadway performance. Box culvert construction along SR 316 continues, with work expected to carry into the early part of the year.
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Bridge construction remains a key focus of the project. At Bethlehem Road, beams are in place, and the metal decking that will support the future concrete deck has been completed. At Barber Creek Road, work continues on the metal bridge decking as crews prepare for the upcoming deck pour and barrier wall construction.
Erosion control and maintenance efforts continue across the corridor. Crews are actively monitoring and maintaining silt fencing, orange safety fencing, temporary mulch, and construction entrances to protect nearby waterways and maintain orderly work zones. Existing traffic control measures remain in place to promote safety for both drivers and construction personnel.
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Paving operations are expected to begin with the temporary widening areas on SR 316, representing another step toward establishing the future travel lanes. Crews will be placing graded aggregate base (GAB) along Craft Frontage Road in preparation for the placement of asphalt in the early part of the year.
Bridge crews at Bethlehem Road and Barber Creek Road will continue advancing the new structures by completing subdeck walls and preparing for decking and barrier walls. Culvert construction will continue at the last extension, allowing for additional grading operations to either continue or commence along SR 316.
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Start the New Year with Safe Driving on SR 316
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As SR 316 improvements continue into 2026, drivers may encounter new lane configurations or alignment shifts that help keep construction progressing. Staying alert to these changes ensures a smoother and safer trip for everyone traveling the corridor.
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By staying attentive and patient during holiday travel, drivers can help keep families and construction crews safe as improvements along SR 316 continue.
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Travel Tips for SR 316:
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Watch for Changing Conditions: Early in the year, temperatures can drop quickly, especially overnight. Be alert for frost, wet pavement, or unexpected patches of black ice on bridges and overpasses.
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Watch for New Patterns: Lane shifts and updated signage may appear throughout the year. Stay attentive to message boards and roadway markings.
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Slow Down Through Shifts: Reduced speeds help you stay centered when lanes narrow or curves adjust.
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Keep Your Distance: Extra space between vehicles gives you more time to react to potential slowdowns near work zones.
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By staying aware and patient during your daily travel, we can all work together to keep SR 316 safe for fellow drivers and the construction crews working hard to improve the corridor.
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View of SR 316 at Barber Creek Road bridge construction.
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View of SR 316 at Bethlehem Road bridge construction.
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Did you know that modern interchanges are designed to reduce conflict points-the spots where vehicles cross paths-by more than 50% compared to traditional intersections?
That's a key reason Georgia DOT is converting these two intersections into grade-separated interchanges. Fewer conflict points mean smoother traffic flow and a safer trip for everyone.
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