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For Immediate Release
July 2, 2026
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I-16 Widening Project selects Matthews-McClendon JV for largest Design-Build contract in state history
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Bulloch, Bryan, Effingham and Chatham Counties - The Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) announces Matthews-McLendon Joint Venture (MMJV)/Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering (ICE), LLC as the awarded successful proposer for the I-16 Widening Project from I-95 to SR 67, PI No. 0020739 at $468.35 million. As the largest Design-Build project in Georgia's history, this transformative initiative represents a major investment in the state's transportation future and underscores Georgia DOT's commitment to delivering a safe, reliable, and efficient transportation network.
Matthews-McClendon/ICE was announced as the apparent successful proposer with the highest buildable segment achieved of 17.77 miles reached. Georgia DOT used a best value (variable scope) procurement method for the Design-Build project, which evaluated both a responsive technical proposal and price proposal. The Matthews-McClendon/ICE team will construct the first segment of the project from the I-16/I-95 interchange to mile marker 139.65, in Bryan County.
Three qualified proposer teams were shortlisted in January 2026, and responsive proposals were submitted from two proposer teams which were opened on June 26, 2026, in a virtual bid opening event. This was only the Department's third time using a Best Value procurement method with a variable scope, which allowed flexibility to get the most from the industry for such a large undertaking. Using innovation in contracting allows Georgia DOT to stretch available funding and ultimately deliver more to the traveling public.
The I-16 Widening Project includes the expansion of I-16 east and westbound from two to three lanes, existing pavement improvements, and enhanced design to improve safety and long-term roadway performance. Along the project limits, six bridges will be replaced, and six will be widened in the following locations:
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Ogeechee River (EB and WB will be replaced)
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Little Ogeechee River (EB and WB will be widened)
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Ogeechee River Overflow 1 (EB and WB will be widened)
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Ogeechee River Overflow 2 (EB and WB will be widened)
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Ogeechee River Overflow 3 (EB and WB will be replaced)
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and Georgia Central Railway (EB and WB will be replaced)
This first phase of the project will widen approximately 17.77 miles. The project is expected to remain within the existing interstate right-of-way to minimize impacts and reduce project costs.
As a critical corridor supporting economic development and regional mobility, the project received strong support from Gov. Brian P. Kemp and was fully funded by the state to accommodate continued growth and meet the needs of Georgia's expanding population and economy.
"The widening of I-16 is an essential step to keep pace with the rapid growth and increasing freight activity across southeast Georgia," said Rick O'Hara, Georgia DOT Project Manager. "By expanding the corridor and strengthening its infrastructure, we're improving safety and ensuring this route continues to reliably serve the communities and industries that depend on it. We look forward to working with Matthews-McClendon on delivering this important project."
Construction is anticipated in 2027. The rest of the 32-mile total project corridor will be delivered in phases with the same Design-Build approach that places design and construction under one contract to shorten schedules and reduce delays.
Additional information about Georgia DOT's Design-Build projects can be found at http://www.dot.ga.gov/PS/Innovative/DesignBuild and about the I-16 Widening project at https://i16-widening-0020168-gdot.hub.arcgis.com/.
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Georgia Department of Transportation plans, constructs, and maintains Georgia's state and federal highways. We're involved in bridge, waterway, public transit, rail, general aviation, bike, and pedestrian programs. And we help local governments maintain their roads. Georgia DOT and its nearly 4,000 employees are committed to delivering a transportation system focused on innovation, safety, sustainability, and mobility. The Department's vision is to boost Georgia's competitiveness through leadership in transportation.
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