Intersection Upgrades on N. Ashley and Patterson Streets

A Georgia Department of Transportation project under way in Valdosta will modernize signals and improve pedestrian safety at 12 intersections along North Ashley and North Patterson streets.

The project includes installing intersection video detection systems to improve traffic flow, upgrading all traffic signal equipment and converting the signals to mast arms instead of the current span wire. The signal heads will utilize LED lights, which use less electricity and last longer than incandescent bulbs. Pedestrian improvements will include new crosswalks, countdown signals and wheelchair ramps that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The project will bring the intersections up to current design standards.

Some of the intersections targeted in the project are in the busy Five Points area of Valdosta. The U.S. 41/state Route 7 Business/North Ashley Street intersections are East Gordon Street, East Ann Street, East College Street, East Moore Street, East Park Avenue, Rosedale Place/Bemiss Road, Cowart Avenue, Northside Drive, Smithbriar Drive and the Oak Street Extension. The intersections on SR 7 Alternate/Patterson Street are Smithbriar Drive and Northside Drive.

Work may cause intermittent traffic interruptions, but drivers shouldn't encounter any major delays during the project. Passersby may notice orange pipes that are behind the curb and sidewalk. Those mark conduits that were bored beneath the road to house the electrical wire used in the traffic signals. The pipes will be cut off and will not be visible when the project is complete. The contractor also dug holes in the striped islands at several locations to locate existing underground utilities. The holes were backfilled and marked with cones, which should be removed today. The striped islands will eventually be raised medians.

Motorists are advised to drive with extra caution when traveling near the work zones. The $1.8 million project is scheduled to be complete early next year. For more information on the project, contact GDOT District Communications Officer Nita Birmingham at 229-391-5463.