Georgia Department of Transportation

07/22/2026 | Press release | Archived content

I-285/I-20 West Interchange July 2026 Newsletter

July 2026

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Thank you to everyone who joined us for the June Community Meeting. The gathering provided an opportunity for residents, stakeholders, and community partners to connect, learn about ongoing construction, and share valuable feedback.

Attendees heard updates on both the I-285/I-20 West Interchange and the I-285 Westside Rebuild projects, discussed priorities for the months ahead, and engaged in meaningful conversations about issues impacting the community. We appreciate the active participation and look forward to continuing these conversations as we work together to improve the interstates and strengthen our community.

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Reshaping the Skyline: A Year of Heavy Lifting at the I-285/I-20 Interchange

In July, construction advanced on the I-285/I-20 West Interchange project, with crews making steady progress on three new ramps, bridge concrete pours for the new I-20 westbound to I-285 southbound, and the I-285 northbound to I-20 westbound ramps.

While that work continues, the Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) will implement a series of overnight lane closures throughout July.

These scheduled closures are strategically timed from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. to minimize disruptions to daytime traffic.

Georgia DOT advises motorists to reduce their speed, remain extra attentive within active work zones, and plan their route ahead of time. Real-time project updates and full detour maps are always available via official Georgia DOT social channels.

The Dream Team: Behind the scenes of the I-285/I-20 West Interchange Project

With the world's biggest sporting event in Atlanta this summer, the city has once again stepped into the global spotlight. But long before the first whistle blew, another massive team has been working behind the scenes to transform Atlanta's infrastructure.

The I-285/I-20 West Interchange project is actively reconstructing one of the country's most critical freight bottlenecks. From the first sketch to the final layer of asphalt, achieving a project of this scale requires a vast "team of teams.". Here is a sneak peek at the massive roster involved in the reconstruction of the I-285/I-20 West Interchange.

Specialized Engineering Teams

These teams work together to design a safer and more efficient interchange by improving road layouts, replacing outdated exits, and building strong bridges that can handle heavy traffic. They also create drainage systems to manage stormwater and add advanced technology that tracks traffic conditions and provides real-time updates to drivers.

Field Crew

These teams work together to manage and carry out construction by coordinating daily operations, directing traffic safely around work zones, and operating heavy equipment to shape and build the interchange. They also handle rock excavation and paving, transforming raw ground into finished roadways built to handle long-term, high-volume traffic.

Inspection & Safety Team

These teams work together to test materials and inspect structures so that every part of the interchange meets strict quality and design standards. They check concrete and asphalt quality and verify that reinforcement in bridges is placed correctly before construction moves forward.

Project Support and Communications Teams

These teams work together to manage the project's budget, workforce, documentation, and communication so everything runs smoothly behind the scenes. They track funding and payments, support and protect workers, keep records organized and compliant, and keep the public and local community informed throughout construction.

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Navigating the Summer Crunch: Summer Vacations

With large events and summer break trips, we are experiencing heavier traffic from both out-of-state and international travelers. Here are some of Georgia DOT's common tips to remember before hitting the roads.

  • Plan Ahead with 511 Georgia: Check the 511GA app or website before leaving the house to see real-time lane closures, traffic pacing schedules, and active delays around the West Interchange.

  • Drop Your Speed the Moment Cones Appear: Obey speed signage to keep you, other motorists, and our crew members safe.

  • Keep Your Cool: Do not try to outpace the work zone. Be respectful to other motorists and keep a good distance between you and the vehicle in front of you.

S4

Spring Brings Opportunity at the I-285/I-20 West Interchange

The Workforce Development team is actively recruiting residents for career opportunities that go beyond seasonal jobs. Additional openings are being advertised across multiple trades, skilled labor, and project support roles.

Those interested in learning more about current and upcoming job openings are encouraged to reach out to Workforce Development Manager Ricardo Linton at [email protected] or visit the I-285/I-20 West Interchange career page for regular updates.

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Separate from the I-285/I-20 West Interchange, the I-285 Westside Rebuild project is managed by Georgia DOT's District 7, Metro Atlanta. The projects are replacing the existing pavement that is in poor overall condition along I-285's west side.

I-285 Westside Rebuild Project Website

Website:

https://0013918-gdot.hub.arcgis.com/

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Georgia Department of Transportation Project Office

4200 Shirley Drive, Atlanta, GA 30336

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Georgia Department of Transportation published this content on July 22, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on July 28, 2026 at 11:42 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]