Contractors began installing the Restricted Crossing U-Turn Intersection (RCUT) at GA 365 and Mt. Zion Road in Alto this week. The intersection design will prevent vehicles from crossing over the highway. Side street traffic on Mt. Zion will now have to turn right and make a U-turn at a dedicated downstream median opening.
Contractors worked Tuesday near a bank with five crosses, marking the intersection’s deadly history. Seven people, including three small children, have died at this crossover since 2021.
The state transportation department approved the RCUT under pressure from state and local officials after a wreck in July claimed five lives.
The Georgia Department of Transportation contracted with Vertical Earth LLC to install the RCUT. Vertical Earth is the same company that installed the new retaining wall on Highway 441 in Demorest.
Traffic delays are expected to continue as work on the RCUT progresses. The Georgia DOT urges drivers to watch for construction crews and obey the posted speed limit.
