After a delay in the relocation of utilities, the Johnny Mize Bridge in Demorest is scheduled for completion in the spring of 2026 amid continued roadwork, according to Georgia’s Department of Transportation.
Work to replace the bridge, located just past the downtown area on Historic Highway 441, began in October of 2023 and has continued to cause traffic delays along that stretch.
“Progress of the new bridge has begun with the drilling of new caissons for bent 3,” GDOT spokesperson Nathan Johnston said in an email. “All new construction is still to be completed entailing the new bridge, roadway and side roads…I do not see any further delays at this point.”
Water lines, sewer lines and other utilities had to be removed and relocated as part of the project.
In April of last year, GDOT awarded Vertical Earth of Cumming a $6.8 million contract to rebuild the .284-mile bridge there over Hazel Creek.
The cost of the project has not changed, according to Johnston.
