GDOT Issues Atlanta Traffic Warnings for National Championship Game

Are You Ready for Some Football? Get Ready for Very Heavy Traffic through Monday in Metro Atlanta

ATLANTA, GA – The Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) urges  Atlanta-area residents and college football fans traveling from near and far to use alternative commute options to avoid traffic congestion this weekend and Monday.

As Atlanta gears up for a number of events leading up to Monday’s College Football National Championship Game between the University of Georgia and the University of Alabama at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Downtown Atlanta, several additional factors anticipated to impact driving this weekend and work commutes on Monday are predictions of winter precipitation overnight Sunday into Monday morning and an expected visit to the game by President Trump.

As a result, traffic will likely be heavier than normal in metro Atlanta for the next three days.On Monday commuters who work in Downtown or Midtown Atlanta are advised to telework if possible or take transit or carpool. Additionally, officials have announced early closures for state and local government offices in metro Atlanta on Monday.

MARTA will offer additional rail service beginning at 5 a.m. Monday until 2 a.m. Tuesday. Rail service will operate on a weekday schedule on Sunday with trains arriving more frequently. On Monday, all rail lines will provide service with more frequency and additional trains will be added as needed. Commuters are also urged to use GRTA Xpress Bus Serviceto get into and around the city.

Georgia DOT plans to restrict most construction lane closures Monday through 5 a.m.Tuesday. The department has dedicated a team of traffic engineers to monitor and respond to the additional traffic by utilizing advanced traffic signal software to make real-time signal adjustments to help facilitate the flow of traffic and accommodate pedestrians around the event venue.

“We anticipate Monday evening’s commute will be a challenging traffic event,” said Andrew Heath, state traffic engineer. “Because the majority of fans of both teams playing in the national championship are within driving distance of Atlanta, we expect a large influx of vehicles on the roads as fans will likely be driving here to attend events or the game. If you must drive into the city – particularly on Monday – plan ahead by calling 511 for traffic information. Expect delays and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.”

The following resources can assist motorists with planning their commutes:

• Call 511 to speak with an operator who can assist
• Visit www.itsmarta.com for MARTA routes and schedules
• Visit www.grta.org for information on GRTA Xpress routes

Georgia DOT advises motorists to never get out of the car on a freeway in the event of a crash or breakdown, unless your life is in imminent danger. If possible, pull off the road, turn on your hazard lights and stay seat-belted in the vehicle with the doors locked. For HERO assistance on interstates or state routes in metro Atlanta or CHAMP assistance on highways elsewhere in the state, call 511, a free phone service that provides real-time statewide information about Georgia’s interstates and state routes, including traffic conditions.

Georgia Department of Transportation is committed to providing a safe, seamless and sustainable transportation system that supports Georgia’s economy and is sensitive to both its citizens and its environment. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.