Gwinnett County is moving forward with multiple projects aiming to improve infrastructure, community safety, and quality of life. Detailing actions from the Board of Commissioners' August 6 meeting, as reported in a recent press release.
A notable development is the upcoming interchange at I-985 and Thompson Mill Road, designed to ease traffic in an area that sees over 90,000 vehicles per day. The project was approved with a partnership outlined between the county and the Georgia Department of Transportation, alongside a $2 million contribution from the Atlanta Regional Commission and a local match of $500,000 from SPLOST. Thomas & Hutton Engineering Co. landed a $4.25 million contract for engineering and construction documents, a cost split between SPLOST and GDOT funds.
Infrastructure improvements continue with roads like Camp Branch Road and South Lee Street are set to be resurfaced, funded by a $10.5 million contract shared among three companies. The project backed by a GDOT Local Maintenance Improvement Grant and SPLOST funds, will also tackle issues such as pavement patching and the adjustment of water valves.
On the recreational front, the county is extending the Loop Trail with plans to connect more pathways, creating alternatives for non-vehicular movement. A $1.3 million contract awarded to KCI Technologies, Inc. will fund the design of a new multi-use path. The initiative, funded 80% by GDOT and 20% by SPLOST, will enhance connectivity to locales like the Gwinnett Place Mall redevelopment site, and the Gas South District.
In an effort to combat the pressing opioid crisis, the Gwinnett Medical Examiner’s Office is deploying a $24,720 grant from the Georgia Department of Public Health. This will support forensic toxicology testing in suspected overdose cases, a move aimed at gathering more comprehensive data for researchers.
Education has not been left by the wayside as Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services are investing in a new mobile fire safety trailer. The realistic setup allows for the simulation of common household fire scenarios, vital for teaching fire and life safety skills. North America Fire Equipment Co., Inc. will provide the trailer at $238,639, an initiative that has already impacted over 6,000 children to date.
Lastly, the region's commitment to aiding seniors and individuals with disabilities is reinforced through a $201,600 homemaking services contract. This provides support for daily household tasks, aiming to maintain independence and quality of life, a commitment sealed by Southern Home Care Services, Inc. and At Home Atlanta, LLC.
