Nearly $4.7 billion in additional state transportation funding over three years. That is a substantial investment. But for anyone sitting in traffic on State Route 316, the more immediate question is probably this: When will it help me?

Georgia Department of Transportation (DOT) Commissioner Russell McMurry brought answers to the Gwinnett Chamber’s Nov. 4 On Topic luncheon, presented by Northside Hospital. A few familiar faces to the DOT were also in attendance, including former member of the board Rudy Bowen and current District 4 member Steve Henson.

From express lanes to intersection improvements, McMurry’s update connected major investments to the roads Gwinnett businesses and their employees travel every day. He outlined the $4.6 billion State Route 400 express lanes project, financed through future toll revenue, and plans for I-285 East Express Lanes. The latter’s first phase carries an anticipated $8.9 billion construction cost, with private financing backed by toll collections and a proposed $23.6 billion concession payment to the state. Yes, billion!

For Gwinnett commuters, a particularly relevant feature is the planned connection between the I-85 express lanes and I-285. McMurry also discussed transit provisions, including future transit on State Route 400 and improvements that help buses move through congested intersections.

Closer to home, State Route 316 commanded attention. The amended fiscal year 2026 budget includes $185 million for interchange conversions along the corridor. McMurry outlined work addressing its remaining 12 intersections, with the broader program targeted for completion by 2031. The $53 million Hi Hope Road interchange is expected to finish in May 2029. An approximately $80 million project extending from Cedars Road toward Sugarloaf Parkway is scheduled for completion that September. Additional funding has also advanced construction at Williams Farm, near Rowen, by one year and the Drowning Creek Road overpass by two fiscal years. For businesses planning an expansion, making deliveries or hiring employees who travel that corridor, those years matter.

Other updates included a $31 million widening project on State Route 124 between U.S. 78 and Ronald Reagan Parkway, planned for fiscal year 2029; improvements around Hamilton Mill Road and State Route 124; and widening projects on State Routes 211 and 20. At Jimmy Carter Boulevard and Buford Highway, a $10.5 million project will add through lanes and dual left-turn lanes. Anyone who has waited through another signal there understands the appeal.

The business connection is straightforward: Employees need dependable commutes. Customers need access. Products need to reach their destinations. Construction takes patience. But getting these projects funded – and, in several cases, moving them forward sooner – helps Gwinnett prepare for the growth already heading our way. Learn more on the Georgia DOT website.