Expect some minor traffic delays on the east side of the Statesboro Bypass Wednesday as the Georgia Department of Transportation prepares to temporarily shift traffic onto the newly constructed lanes. Traffic lines were added to the new lanes just two weeks ago in anticipation of the move.

            The bypass will continue to operate as a two-way, two-lane roadway, as crews prepare to complete the resurfacing and and striping of the existing lanes. In addition, they will complete the construction of the pedestrian tunnel going under the bypass south of Brannen Street near Franklin Toyota.

            While there will be some minor delays, all intersections along the seven-mile stretch are expected to be fully operational.

            Officials from GDOT could not be reached for further details about exactly when traffic will be diverted or how long the re-surfacing process would take.

            The 6.95 mile paving project is slated to be completed by Novmeber. It was originally awarded by GDOT to Douglas Asphalt who posted a winning bid of $18,811,311. When Douglas did not comply with the terms of the contract and were found in default, Americus-based Reeves Construction Company was awarded the contract. Considered one of the largest construction companies in the state of Georgia, Reeves Construction has approximately 450 employees, 13 asphalt plants, and more than 1,100 units of construction equipment with annual sales near $125 million.

            When the construction is complete in the fall, the bypass will be fully open to traffic as a four-lane divided median roadway. For citizens inquiries on this project, please call the Statesboro Area Engineers Office at (912) 871-1103.