Expansion project construction on Westover Boulevard underway. Here’s what that means for Albany drivers.

ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is working on an expansion project on Westover Boulevard.

What is the project?

A $21 million contract was awarded to extend Westover Boulevard, one of Albany’s most driven roads. The extension will connect Westover to Ledo Road.

The project will also construct the Good Life City’s first roundabout, which will be near the Albany Mall. There will also be two new bridges on U.S. 82/State Route 520/Liberty Expressway.

Experts say that the roundabout will help traffic, as well as promote safety in the area of the Albany Mall where there is a high flow of traffic.

Right now, construction is focused on creating a detour road for drivers along U.S. Highway 82 to continue the expansion plan.

A preliminary study along the Nottingham Way corridor within the project limits showed that between 2007-2009, there were over 2,000 crashes per 100 million vehicle miles — something a roundabout can help with.

“Statistics show that they can reduce crashes that may result in a fatality or serious injury by 78-82%. That’s huge,” Gina Snider, GDOT district communications officer, said.

When WALB News 10 first reported on the expansion back in 2022, some people commented on Facebook saying “Waste of time and money not to mention it’s unnecessary,” and “Albany drivers aren’t ready for that.”

Some residents said the addition of a roundabout can solve high-traffic issues in the area.

“It’ll help people that want to get into Lee County or into Albany you know a lot easier,” said Mark Turnipseed, an Albany resident.

Robert Sanchez, another Albany resident, said it will create safer travel for pedestrians and drivers.

“There’s more space on the road for less crashes,” he said.

How do you navigate a roundabout?

• When approaching the roundabout, slow down and observe speed limits.
• You will need to stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk, which is the law.
• When entering a roundabout, yield to traffic already in the circle. Look left and then enter the roundabout when it is safe.
• Drive counterclockwise and follow all signs.
• When inside the roundabout, do not stop as you have the right of way.

🚘 RELATED: Want to learn more about roundabouts? The Georgia Department of Transportation has you covered. 🚘

The project is on track to finish in the winter of 2024.

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