I-85 at West Point
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On March 7, 2007, the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) issued approval of the environmental document for the West Point 85 Interchange project. This was a major milestone that set into motion the final design and construction of the project, which includes a new interchange to I-85 near milepost 6, approximately 5 miles of new frontage and access roads, two new bridges, improvements to Webb Road and new signals at various locations. Currently, construction is scheduled for completion by December 2008.
Project Background
In 2006, Kia Motors selected West Point as the location for its first U.S. manufacturing plant. The Georgia Department of Economic Development purchased a 2,200-acre site along the western side of I-85 that will house the plant and community training center. Though the property is situated near the interstate, access to and from the property is limited and requires the use of SR 18, which connects to I-85 at Exit 2. In addition, the existing rural roads connecting the site to the interstate cannot accommodate the expected increase in the volume of truck and vehicle traffic from the new manufacturing plant.
To accommodate these additional traffic and access needs, the Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT) is constructing the West Point 85 Interchange project. This project includes the design and construction of a new interchange to I-85 near milepost 6, approximately 5 miles of new frontage and access roads, two new bridges, improvements to Webb Road, and new signals at various locations. This project will also improve access to I-85 from rural West Point communities on both sides of I-85 and offer connectivity across I-85.