01/29/2005

Local officials support request for U.S. 78 funds

SNELLVILLE: Several officials, who represent the Hwy 78 area, have joined with Congressman John Linder seeking federal funding to improve the 7-mile corridor from the DeKalb County line to the City of Snellville. Congressman Linder is requesting federal funding for U.S. 78 in the reauthorization of the highway bill this year. In a series of letters in support of that funding, State, County, and City officials weighed in on behalf of the improvement project planned for the Hwy 78 corridor.

State Transportation Board Member Garland Pinholster said, “This project is vital to the Highway 78 corridor and will compliment efforts already underway by the Georgia Department of Transportation.” Commission Chairman Charles Bannister wrote, “The citizens of Gwinnett County would be well served by mobility improvements and safety enhancements along this corridor. Please accept this letter as my affirmation and endorsement of the Highway 78 Community Improvement District’s efforts to revitalize and enhance the U.S. 78 corridor.” District 3 Commissioner Mike Beaudreau added, “South Gwinnett and Highway 78 are at a critical stage. The requested project for inclusion within the reauthorization bill will provide installation of Intelligent Transportation Systems, infrastructure for inter-parcel access, pedestrian access, lighting, and beautification and thereby benefit the over 60,000 citizens that travel this roadway daily.”

Mayor Jerry Oberholtzer of Snellville noted the collaborative effort currently underway saying, “The City of Snellville’s City Center project, Gwinnett County’s Revitalization Task Force, and the Hwy 78 Community Improvement District are all attempts to improve the quality of life for local residents and insure a prosperous future for our businesses. These enhancements are not only critical for the long-term viability of Hwy 78, but also the success of Snellville’s Town Center.” Jimmy Norton, Chairman of the Snellville Downtown Development Authority wrote, “Hwy 78 is critical to the sustained business viability of the entire south Gwinnett area. An estimated $17 million in funding is needed and federal dollars will be matched with state, local, and private contributions to enhance the Highway 78 corridor. 

Joan Miller, President of the 100+ member Snellville Commerce Club indicated the tremendous importance of this project saying, “In many instances, our members have invested their life savings in starting businesses, providing jobs, and seeking the American dream. The long term economic vitality of U.S. 78 is crucial to our survival and our ability to continue operating the economic engine that provides the desirable quality of life we all seek in south Gwinnett County.” Finally, Kenny King, Chairman of the Hwy 78 CID voiced support stating, “As the volume of traffic on U.S. 78 has increased over the past twenty years, in excess of 60,000 cars daily, safety and mobility on the corridor have drastically decreased. The business community along the Highway 78 corridor sees these improvements as a necessary step in improving safety and mobility in Gwinnett County. 

Many other officials representing the Hwy 78 area in south Gwinnett County have voiced support for the efforts underway including numerous State Senators and Representatives, County Commissioners, and City Council Members. The Georgia Department of Transportation is working closely with the businesses, Hwy 78 CID, and Gwinnett County DOT to implement the U.S. 78 safety improvements in the manner that best meets the needs of the community.

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