SPRINGFIELD, Ga. — Effingham drivers could soon see relief from congestion, as construction on the long-awaited Effingham Parkway enters its final stretch.
The 6.4-mile parkway from State Route 30 to Blue Jay Road is designed to ease traffic on State Route 21 and create a new corridor for residents and commuters, according to Jill Nagel, district communications officer for the Georgia Department of Transportation. The Effingham County-sponsored project also supports local economic development and improves regional mobility.
During Effingham Day at the Capitol last week, county officials met with GDOT and learned that Phase 1 — extending from the roundabout at State Route 30 and Benton Boulevard to the roundabout at Gateway Parkway, just north of Goshen Road — is scheduled for completion by May 31, 2026. The roundabout at Effingham Parkway and Gateway Parkway, being built by a private property owner, is expected to finish by May 26.
The remainder of the parkway, from Gateway Parkway to Blue Jay Road, is slated for completion by the overall contract date of July 31, 2026.
“All six bridges along the corridor have been completed,” Nagel said. Contractors are now focused on finishing the mainline roadway, including tie-ins at intersections and bridge approaches. The final asphalt surface will be placed during warmer spring weather.
Work continues on two new roundabouts at Blue Jay Road and Goshen Road, with roadway grading, central island construction, and utility relocation underway. Storm drain installation and curb and gutter work will follow. The overall project cost is $74.8 million.
County highlight benefits
“Traffic management remains one of the top priorities for the Effingham County Board of Commissioners, especially as our community continues to grow,” said Tim Callanan, Effingham County Manager. “The Effingham Parkway is a critical investment that will provide commuters with an alternative route, reduce congestion on State Route 21, and improve overall mobility across the county.”
Beth Helmly, Effingham County commissioner, highlighted the collaborative nature of the project.
“The parkway is a joint effort between Effingham County and GDOT,” she said. “The county contributed roughly $25 million toward design and right-of-way acquisition, while GDOT manages construction. Once complete, the county will maintain the roadway.”
Helmly added that the corridor will provide additional traffic options between Chatham and Effingham counties, supporting responsible growth and helping reduce congestion on other major routes.
