SR 17 Widening

FAST FACTS

GDOT Project #: 222260
Type: Reconstruction, Rehabilitation
Project Length: 13.1 miles
Affected Counties: Wilkes
Condemning Authority: GDOT
Estimated Affected Parcels: 179
Estimated Cost: $78,309,325
Right-of-Way Funds: $9,768,000

Description

One piece of a multipart project seeking to redevelop State Route 17, this leg seeks to widen the current two lane undivided roadway into a four-lane divided highway. The project begins at the North Washington Bypass and will end just north of County Route 113, known as Vinson Road and Norman Road.

A median will be added, and will vary widely in width and design – from as little as a 4-foot flush median to a 32-foot depressed one. Within the City of Tignall, the road would taper to two travel lanes with a 14-foot center turn lane.

The right of way width, presently 100 feet, would vary along the length of the project. All intersections with substandard skew angles are to be redeveloped and brought into specification with current GDOT policy. The project includes a new northbound bridge over Rock Creek, with a new southbound bridge replacing the existing bridge as part of another project.

Business and Homeowner Concerns

For many people, SR 17 is their primary commuting path as well as being an important freight artery. In addition to many undeveloped properties, there are other property owners along the project path who may be affected, including businesses and several churches. Be aware that GDOT will be taking pieces of these properties – perhaps significant and damaging portions – to accommodate the additional right of way. These takings and the planned median could severely damage the value and usability of some properties, especially regarding access, parking, and possible non-conformance with county rules once GDOT takes its piece.

Instead of outright taking property, GDOT may instead decide it needs a temporary or permanent easement: the right to use your land how they please. The construction process may result in inverse condemnation. Homeowners and businesses may be eligible for relocation expenses if they must move, and businesses may seek compensation for loss of income. Churches, especially, should be wary of the value GDOT places on their property, and the offer it makes for that property.

What to Do if Your Property Is Affected

The government must compensate you for any property it takes. In fact, nearly $10 million in funding has been set aside for property owners, but that does not mean GDOT wants to spend that much. Like any buyer, it wants your property for the lowest possible price. You’re not required to accept their initial offer, and you probably shouldn’t!

In our experience, no matter what GDOT offers for it, your property is likely worth significantly more. You have to fight for maximum compensation – and that fight starts now!

Remember: the initial offer is just the beginning – as long as you do not accept it. Let us help you fight for more. Call 1-888-391-1339 or contact us as soon as possible for a complimentary case evaluation.

We do not take an attorney’s fee unless we increase the government’s offer, and our fee only comes from the increased amount – our no fee guarantee. The initial offer is entirely yours regardless of what you do next or what we may be able to obtain. Further, we front the costs of fighting your case and if we’re unable to increase the government’s offer to you, you don’t pay them. We do. That is how confident we are that we can assist you.

News and Publications

The News-Reporter Finally official: Expansion of SR 17 complete to Thomson

The News-Reporter Comments invited on plans to widen Elberton Highway

Project Maps

Estimated Project Schedule

Right of Way Acquisition – 2024

Start Construction – 2027

End Construction – TBD

Affected Parcels

An estimated 179 parcels of property will be affected by the SR 17 widening project in Wilkes County. Property owners may lose significant amounts of land, representing significant financial value and usability. For homeowners and commercial property owners in the path of the project, it is critical to understand that the government’s initial offer is just that – initial. We do not recommend you accept the initial offer.

Get a free case
evaluation today.

There are only a handful of attorneys in GA who practice eminent domain exclusively. And even fewer with DOT experience. That’s why it’s always worth it to get a free case evaluation.

Here’s how it works:

1) Tell us about your situation.

2) We research your property as needed, using DOT maps, our own technology, and experience to see the exact effects.

3) We let you know what we think a fair offer would be. This evaluation is free, and there’s no
pressure or obligation to hire us after.

But please don’t wait to act. Waiting can hurt your case, and the cost is the same: free.

1-888-391-1339

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