Construction began last Tuesday by the Georgia Department of Transportation on the widening and reconstruction of additional lanes on SR 74 funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in Fayette County.

The project consists of 3,386 miles of widening and reconstruction for additional lanes on SR 74 beginning at SR 85 and extending to Cooper Circle (County Road 597). This project also includes the realignment of Rockaway Road, Padgett Road and the construction of a bridge and approaches over Flat Creek.

The estimated construction cost is $16,906,824. Dec. 31, 2011 is the projected completion date for the project.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act is a national effort to create jobs and transform America’s economy to compete in the 21st century. Nationwide, some $48 billion in stimulus investments are being made in transportation infrastructure, including highways, public transit, high speed rail and aviation.

Georgia DOT has created a web page, www.dot.ga.gov/gastimulus, devoted to stimulus activities to provide specific program information and promote transparency of the process.

All selected American Recovery and Reinvestment Act stimulus projects are fully funded by the federal government; no state or local matching funds are required.

The Georgia Department of Transportation is committed to providing a safe, seamless and sustainable transportation system that supports Georgia’s economy and is sensitive to both its citizens and its environment. Additional transportation revenues are imperative to grow and sustain Georgia’s economic vitality and quality of life through the 21st century.