• Fall 2017 – Winter 2020 - Conceptual & Preliminary Design


  • Summer 2020 - FHWA Environmental Approval


  • Summer 2022 - Right-of-Way Acquisition


  • Summer 2027 - Plans Available for Construction


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ROME-CARTERSVILLE DEVELOPMENT CORRIDOR

What is the environmental process and why is it needed?

​The Rome-Cartersville Development Corridor (RCDC) will connect US 411 and I-75 in Bartow County, assisting commuters who work or live in Atlanta and surrounding areas.

During the RCDC project, GDOT’s environmental team has been busy conducting surveys within two broad alternative corridors that were introduced to the CAC in November 2015. Prior to starting in the field, we mailed more than 300 letters to alert property owners and introduce the RCDC project. While we conducted desktop research on many topics required in the environmental process, our primary focus has been on the extensive field surveys including the following: database then supported effective planning by the engineering team to refine the broad corridors into two preliminary alternatives. 

  • Wetlands, streams, open waters (more than 70)
  • Habitat including protected plants and animals 
  • Aquatic species 
  • Bats and migratory birds 
  • Cultural resources 


Using the survey results, the team created a database of the resources and constraints with Geographical Information System (GIS) and other software. This database then supported effective planning by the engineering team to refine the broad corridors into Alternative 2B. Ongoing environmental studies will continue to support the design. 

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  • Complete environmental data collection with agency review


  • Complete conceptual design with survey data


  • Prepare Environmental Assessment and Interchange Modification/Justification Report at I-75, both for FHWA approval


  • Prepare preliminary, right-of-way, and final plans


  • Conduct right-of-way plans


  • Initiate construction


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