A North Georgia state lawmaker wants to know the potential impacts of the proposed Inland Port of Gainesville – known as the Blue Ridge Connector – on surrounding counties, including Hall, Forsyth, Jackson, Dawson and Lumpkin. Late last week Rep. Brent Cox, R-Dawsonville, sent a formal request to the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT), asking them to establish a study committee to look at this issue.
In his request, Cox emphasized the importance of understanding how this major logistics project will affect transportation systems and communities across North Georgia.
“Unlike our inland port in Northwest Georgia, this new site is surrounded by a much greater population density,” said Cox. “We must ensure our public that the existing infrastructure in these communities can handle the increased truck traffic and freight movement that will come with this project. Our citizens deserve a clear assessment and proactive planning to protect their roads, safety and quality of life.”
The Chair of the House Transportation Committee voiced his support of this request. “I support this initiative and commend Rep. Cox for his foresight,” said Rep. Rick Jasperse, R-Jasper. “The Gainesville Inland Port represents an exciting economic opportunity for North Georgia, but we must be deliberate in ensuring our infrastructure keeps pace with growth. This study is an important step in that direction.”
Cox said that the proposed GDOT study committee would bring together transportation officials, local leaders and industry experts to analyze freight traffic, infrastructure capacity, road safety and long-term transportation needs associated with the Gainesville Inland Port.
He also stated that the findings would help guide both state and local planning efforts to ensure that infrastructure investments align with economic growth.
“We all want to see our region thrive – but growth must be smart, coordinated and sustainable,” added Cox. “By partnering with GDOT and our local communities, we can plan for success while preserving the quality of life that makes North Georgia such a great place to live.”
