If you’re driving through Demorest, be warned. Police are strictly enforcing the 25 mph Construction Zone speed limit near the Johnny Mize Bridge.
Work is underway to replace the bridge that spans Hazel Creek and utility crews are working very close to the road.
“We realize Central Avenue is a major connector between Cornelia and Clarkesville, not just bringing people to our downtown Demorest offerings, so we want to take this opportunity to urge the public to closely observe the speed limit that is in place to protect workers, drivers, and pedestrians,” said Demorest City Manager Mark Musselwhite.
The reduced speed limit in the construction zone has been in place for a while now. It starts at Florida Street below the work on the retaining wall and extends past the bridge to Demorest City Cemetery on the north end.
Musselwhite and Demorest Police Chief Casey Chastain want to remind drivers to slow down to keep everyone safe.
“Our officers already have been pulling over speeding drivers, trying to raise awareness of the reduced speed limit,” Chastain said. “Our goal is for drivers to voluntarily cooperate with the posted speed limit, so we don’t have to write tickets, but we know everyone is in a hurry, and we’re here to help them slow down if needed.”
Georgia Department of Transportation contractors are building the new bridge. It is expected to be completed by January 2026.
