CONYERS, Ga. – Rockdale County is celebrating a major grant the Georgia Department of Transportation has awarded to the County to continue landscaping improvements along entrance and exit ramps on Interstate 20 within the county.

In addition to landscaping improvements, the funds will also be used to repair or replace chain-link fencing along the interstate that has over time been damaged by things such as car crashes and falling trees.

The $600,000 grant does not require any match funds.

The County has worked for several years to try to have GDOT repair the fencing along Interstate 20. This grant award will allow the County to complete both of these projects.

“I’m excited we’re bringing more resources into our community to improve the feel of an area that usually has no décor or specific identity,” Chairman & CEO Richard Oden said.

“We’re grateful to have been selected for this considering how tough grant dollars are to come by these days.”
He said the landscaping project will make Rockdale stand out and look distinctive as both visitors and residents travel through the county on Interstate 20.

The multi-phased project will span from Sigman Road to Salem Road. The County and City of Conyers, with GDOT’s assistance, have already completed similar landscaping work at the Route 138 and the West Avenue ramps.

“This is a very substantial grant, and it is the first time this particular funding source has been awarded to the County,” Rockdale Department of Transportation Director Miguel Valentin said.

“We’ll be able to implement aesthetic and safety improvements as part of the same project.”