Additional safety measures required at Jefferson County intersection
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Wrens, Ga. - The Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) is preparing to close the median of State Route 540/The Fall Line Freeway at State Route 296 to add additional safety measures to the intersection.
Since installing a Reduced Conflict U-Turn (RCUT) at the intersection in July, Georgia DOT crews have observed drivers illegally navigating the intersection. Some drivers are disobeying posted "right turn only" signage on SR 296. Instead, they turn left, driving the wrong way down SR 540 to access SR 296 from the left-turn lane on SR 540. Because this illegal behavior creates a safety risk, Georgia DOT has determined additional measures are needed.
On Monday, August 26 and Tuesday, August 27, crews are scheduled to close the median to replace the existing concrete median with a new "tough curb system." Crews will also add new delineators down the length of the left turn lane on SR 540, making it more difficult for drivers to access SR 296 by illegally going the wrong way down SR 540. Additional "wrong way" and "do not enter" signs will also be added.
In addition, we have observed drivers making illegal U-Turns through the grass median instead of driving a few hundred feet further down the road to the designated paved area where you can legally make a safe U-Turn. In response, crews will be adding additional delineators to the grass median.
While work takes place, drivers on SR 540 can still access SR 296 by making a safe U-Turn using pavement installed a short distance away from the intersection.
As always, Georgia DOT strongly encourages all drivers to obey Georgia traffic law, which includes obeying posted traffic signs.
Advisory: Work schedule is subject to change depending on weather conditions. Drivers are advised to expect delays, exercise caution, and reduce their speed while traveling through work zones, stay alert, and watch for workers. Before heading out, get real-time information on work status and traffic conditions. Call 511, visit 511ga.org, or download the Georgia 511 app.
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