As many in Oconee are aware, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) released 3 proposed bypass routes south of Watkinsville to connect Highway 15 with Highway 441. The plans were released in an Open House meeting on April 16 and public comment was open until May 11. These plans have generated a lot of public conversation and it is important to remember that no decision has been made.
There are two opportunities for the public to get first-hand updates on the project and provide feedback. Please help spread the word.
A stakeholder meeting has been scheduled for August 20 at 2:30pm. Attendees are local elected leaders including county commissioners, city council & mayor, and myself. At the request of the Oconee County Board of Commissioners, the meeting is virtual. Also, at the request of the Save South Oconee group, a public link has been created to allow members of the public to view the meeting, although public viewers will not be permitted to speak or ask questions during the meeting in the interest of time.
I am grateful that the meeting will be held in a manner that is transparent and visible to Oconee county citizens, the most important stakeholders.
This is the public link. It will be usable at 2:30pm on Thursday, August 20, 2026.
In addition to news of the stakeholder meeting, GDOT has re-opened the project website for public comment. It will remain open through August 27, 2026. Oconee residents are encouraged to provide feedback to GDOT. Local feedback is a vitally important part to any decisions that will be made on this project.
