Monroe County awarded $5 million for major road projects

It allow for major projects including a Buc-ee’s, a technology campus data center, and a Oglethorpe Power natural gas plant.

FORSYTH, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Monroe County Board of Commissioners along with Georgia State Senator John Kennedy announced Thursday, Monroe County will receive $5 million to help with road resurfacing.

Governor Brian Kemp directed the funds be used to widen and resurface of Rumble Road, that will allow for major projects including a Buc-ee’s, a technology campus data center, and a Oglethorpe Power natural gas plant.

Senator John F. Kennedy says this is a smart expenditure of state funds.

“It’s right on I-75 that has a lot of traffic that takes care of so many things in Georgia,” he said. “This is going to allow the county to have some really smart development of this area and having infrastructure put in place really will save money over the long haul, and that will be good not just for Monroe but for Georgia.”

He explained how the projects will help grow the local economy.

“Whatever industries or business that want to come to this area, the county can have it prepared so it can be more thoughtful and smarter about those businesses that want to come to this area,” said Senator Kennedy. “As well as it will help the citizens when it comes to traffic flows and traffic delays.”

Monroe County Commissioner Al Turner, says this money is a win-win for the community.

“Because the roads weren’t built for as much traffic that’s going to be coming down,” exclaimed Commissioner Turner. “So, with the money we got from the state, it’s going to help widen it and make it a lot safer for school children and people going to and from work.”

Senator Kennedy says Monroe County is the perfect place to invest the money.

“It’s just affirmation that the state uses smart dollars and places them right here in Monroe County,” explained Senator Kennedy. “So, I think it’s a shot in the arm, and it’s a good thumbs up for many people outside this area, that yes these are smart dollars to invest in this area we call home.”

He adds the new projects coming to Monroe County will bring in more high paying jobs.

The funding was made available through the Georgia Department of Transportation’s State Road and Tollway Authority.