Georgia announces record funding for local transportation projects

Governor Brian P. Kemp, along with the State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA) Board of Directors, has announced a significant allocation of $26.5 million in Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (GTIB) loans and grants to support 13 transportation infrastructure projects across the state. This funding round is facilitated by a $46 million budget enhancement in the AFY 2025 state budget.

Governor Kemp emphasized the importance of these investments, stating, "Thanks to conservative budgeting and strategic funding of our priorities, Georgia is not only the No. 1 state for business we're also the best state for reliable infrastructure." He added that this year's investment reaffirms Georgia's commitment to creating opportunities throughout the state, particularly in rural areas.

Among the notable projects receiving funds is the Mount Vernon Roadway Connectivity project, which will benefit from a $1.4 million GTIB grant aimed at repairing roads damaged by Hurricane Helene and paving a dirt road to improve safety.

The largest single investment in this round is a $4.9 million loan to Cumberland CID for developing Segment C of the Cumberland Sweep—a path designed to enhance transportation for office workers, residents, and visitors by connecting existing infrastructure around I-285.

Barrow County received significant funding as well: a $2.4 million loan paired with a $1 million grant for constructing a new roundabout on State Route 53 at Mulberry Road, expected to reduce collisions and improve freight movement.

Jannine Miller, Executive Director of SRTA, highlighted that "Rural communities made up 38% of GTIB applications this year," indicating widespread interest in improving local transportation networks across Georgia.

Since its inception in 2010, GTIB has awarded over $242 million in grants and loans towards projects valued at more than $1.2 billion statewide. The program evaluates applications based on criteria such as economic value and feasibility before awarding funds aimed at capital improvements.

Applications were accepted from mid-November 2024 until January 14, 2025. Detailed descriptions of awardees and their respective funding amounts are available through SRTA's official channels.

For further information about GTIB initiatives or SRTA’s role within Georgia’s transportation framework, interested parties can visit www.srta.ga.gov/gtib.