Georgia DOT is advancing the I-285 Eastside Express Lanes project, a proposed 13-mile corridor that would add two barrier-separated express lanes in each direction between Henderson Road and I-20 in DeKalb County. The project aims to improve mobility on one of the state’s busiest road segments, which carries more than 200,000 vehicles each weekday.

The express lanes would be built next to existing general-purpose lanes. Georgia DOT plans at-grade and elevated sections. The general-purpose lane count will remain unchanged. The project is part of the state’s Major Mobility Investment Program and aligns with the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Regional Transportation Plan.

Georgia DOT will deliver the project as a revenue-risk public-private partnership. The private partner will design, build, finance, operate, and maintain the express lanes in exchange for future toll revenue. The revised P3 approach shifts financial obligations from the state to the private sector and expands the scope of the I-285 Eastside and Westside corridors.

The project cost is estimated at $7.6 billion. Georgia DOT has applied for a $2.5 billion TIFIA loan through the Build America Bureau. Procurement for the first phase is underway. The department expects proposals in spring 2026 and plans to select a bidder in late summer.

Three shortlisted teams are competing for the first phase:

  • 285 East Peach Partners (ACS Infrastructure, Meridiam, Acciona)
  • East Perimeter Partners (Plenary, Sacyr, Shikun & Binui)
  • Top End Mobility Group (Cintra, Transurban, Star America)

Georgia DOT will structure later phases under progressive or project development agreements. The team that wins the first phase will likely have the first option to participate in future phases.

Georgia DOT continues environmental studies, agency coordination, and refinement of design alternatives. The department is hosting Public Information Open Houses in October and November 2025 to present the preliminary concept and collect public comments. Feedback will inform the project’s environmental documentation.