ATLANTA - Atlanta plans to temporarily suspend all non-emergency construction activity to help ease the congestion brought about by the Interstate 85 collapse.
Mayor Kasim Reed issued an executive order on Monday suspending routine road work during the reconstruction of the overpass between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. The order applies to the so-called Impact Mitigation Corridor, which extends from downtown Atlanta to the northern city limits, east to Moreland Avenue and west to US-41/Northside Drive.
WATCH: City cracks down on shortcut drivers
The city said it will not accept new construction permits before April 17.
“Temporarily suspending construction activities during reconstruction of Interstate 85 makes sense and is the right decision to help ease traffic congestion,” Mayor Reed was quoted as saying in a release sent to FOX 5 News. “While our partners at GDOT do the essential work of rebuilding the I-85 bridge, we are taking multiple measures to ensure people can make it to work or school on time, and can enjoy their time in our city.
In addition, the city has put up signs in certain neighborhoods noting that it is illegal to use as thru ways while the I-85 repairs are being made.
The city continues to encourage people to consider tele-commuting or taking transit, such as MARTA and the Atlanta Streetcar, whenever possible.