Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp announced on June 6th the approval of a $16.9 million funding and loan from the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (GTIB) to support transportation infrastructure projects in the state. This round of funding includes the fourth-highest loan amount in GTIB’s history.
Governor Kemp stated, “The unprecedented economic growth in our state is partly due to our reliable transportation infrastructure network, which serves the hardworking people of Georgia and the employers who hire them.” He emphasized the importance of responsibly funding the state’s infrastructure needs to continue attracting talent, opportunities, and maintain Georgia’s status as a leading business state. This investment is expected to bring significant progress to more communities for generations to come.
The approved funding includes $5.6 million in loans and $1 million in grants totaling $6.6 million to Peach County, located south of Macon. This marks the largest investment in the history of GTIB, reflecting continued efforts to support investments in rural areas of the state. The funds from GTIB will greatly accelerate the paving of dirt roads in Peach County, providing access to over 1,000 acres of developable land and enhancing connectivity.
Additionally, Watkinsville, south of Athens, received funding to support the improvement project for the pedestrian walkway on Simonton Bridge Road in the city. The project’s cost exceeds the city’s annual operating budget of $3 million. Without the state government funding, it was estimated to take 5 to 7 years to complete the project. With the help of GTIB funds, the city is expected to finish the project in a shorter timeframe and at approximately half the cost.
Since its establishment in 2010, GTIB has allocated $216 million in funding and loans to various construction projects, totaling over $1.1 billion in investment. This highlights the significant impact GTIB has had on improving Georgia’s infrastructure and supporting community development over the years.