Road, Sidewalk Construction Nears End

The Department of Transportation has the anticipated completion date for the road widening of Hwy. 16 here in Monticello, and the addition of sidewalks to be completed by August 21, 2015.

A spokesman for the DOT said this week that it appeared that the work would continue into September, but they are moving along.

For those who have been watching the progress, and those who live along West Washington Street, it can’t happen too soon. Between traffic disruption and the unsightliness of the construction, most people can hardly wait to see the project completed.

The DOT has also announced that due to a high frequency of accidents and collisions, the current two-way stop at the intersection of State Route (SR) 212 and Bethel Church Road will be converted to a four-way stop starting Wednesday, August 5 if weather permits.

Leading up to the switch, the Georgia DOT will complete the following high priority work:

•SR 212 NB: All edge lines and center lines refurbished, rumble strips, stop signage and stop bar;

•SR 212 SB: All edge lines and centerlines refurbished, rumble strips, stop signage and stop bar;

•Bethel Church Road WB and EB: Refurbished edge lines, center line and stop bar along with installation of new signage and “All Way” plate on the bottom of stop signs;

Message boards have appeared on both approaches of SR 212 to notify the general public about the brand new all-stop condition. These boards should remain for several days after the switch, as motorists adjust.