Atlanta: Traffic Nightmare as Downtown Freeway Closes for Repairs

Atlanta: Traffic Nightmare as Downtown Freeway Closes for RepairsAtlanta: Traffic Nightmare as Downtown Freeway Closes for Repairs Atlanta commuters are bracing for a major traffic nightmare this weekend as a critical section of the Downtown Connector freeway closes for extensive repairs. Starting at 9 p.m. Friday, June 17th, the southbound lanes of the Connector between the I-75/85 merge and Courtland Street will be shut down for the entire weekend. This vital stretch of highway carries an average of 150,000 vehicles per day. The closure is necessary to replace a deteriorating bridge over Georgia Tech’s campus. The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) estimates the repairs will take 55 hours, meaning the southbound lanes are scheduled to reopen by 4 a.m. Monday, June 20th. GDOT officials warn that the closure will have a ripple effect throughout Atlanta’s transportation network. Commuters are strongly encouraged to use alternate routes, such as I-20, I-285, or MARTA, Atlanta’s public transit system. “This is going to be a significant disruption,” said GDOT Commissioner Russell McMurry. “We’re urging the public to plan ahead, allow extra time for their commutes, and consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services.” Local businesses in the affected area are also preparing for the impact of the closure. Restaurants, shops, and offices are adjusting their hours and staffing to accommodate the reduced traffic flow. “We’re expecting a slowdown, but we’re doing everything we can to stay open and serve our customers,” said Laura Johnson, manager of a coffee shop near the freeway. “We just hope people will be patient and understanding.” The closure of the Downtown Connector is part of a larger GDOT project to improve the freeway’s infrastructure. Similar repairs are planned for the northbound lanes of the Connector in the coming months. Commuters are advised to check GDOT’s website or social media accounts for real-time traffic updates and alternate route recommendations during the weekend closure.