SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — Savannah's East President Street is facing growing congestion... thanks to train backups at the railroad crossing. On Wednesday afternoon, officials plan to outline how they intend to fix the major transportation issue.
The busy intersection one East President Street, next to the Truman Highway flyover – is frequently blocked by trains. This has been a source of frustration for thousands of people.
Today you will have a chance to see the proposals that would eliminate this issue.
Nearly 45,000 vehicles cross the intersection every day, and nearly 500,000 trucks travel through East President Street each year. Officials anticipate the number of trucks traveling will more than double by 2032. To help stop an already congested problem… the removal of a stoplight is very likely along with the flyover.
The elimination of the crossing would involve either a bridge or tunnel for vehicles to pass over or under the railroad tracks making it safer for both drivers and pedestrians. This project is especially important for emergency response times as the crossing often blocks first responders from reaching critical areas.
Funding opportunities from federal programs to rural grants will help bring this project to life.
"I think it is a really important project. That industrial zone is not going away. That rail access... the industrial zone is important. However, as we have grown, and President Street sees more volume, and that railyard sees more volume… we are going to have to solve that issue. I think the flyover is the right approach," shared Savannah's City Manager Jay Melder.
Savannah shows no sign of slowing down in population growth, so officials are searching for long-term solutions. In their final study over 76% of respondents frequently avoid East President Street due to congestion. Nearly half said they experience delays multiple times per week.
When asked about their preference for alternatives to fix the congested road 43% favored Alternative 3 making this suggestion the most supported long-term solution.
Alternative 3 improves traffic flow on President Street and would be an estimated cost of nearly 80 million - a significantly lower cost compared to other alternatives. This would mean this plan would enhance mobility while also reducing construction expenses.
The President Street Railroad Crossing Elimination Study Public Information Open House is all part of an effort to improve safety and traffic flow in Savannah. The project would be rolled out in two stages. The first half would include reconstructing the Truman Parkway on-ramp and then building the grade-separated bridge. Importantly – traffic would continue throughout the construction... minimizing disruptions.
The open house today provides an opportunity for you to learn about the proposed plans…and ask those questions. It starts at 4 p.m. at the Whitney Complex on Laura Avenue.
If you want to provide input, click here.
To learn more about the study, and the alternative route options click here.