Project Details
State Route 42, known locally as North Henry Boulevard, serves as a crucial transportation artery in the southern suburbs of Metro Atlanta, particularly between Stockbridge, GA, in Henry County, and Interstate 675, in Clayton County. Spanning approximately 2.5 miles, this segment of SR 42 is integral to local commuting, regional connectivity, and ongoing local development. The importance of SR 42 extends beyond its immediate vicinity. The road connects to I-75 and I-675, through SR 138, facilitating access to key commercial and employment centers in the Atlanta metropolitan area.
Recognizing its significance, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) initiated a major widening project for SR 42, between SR 138, and I-675. Awarded to CWM in September 2023, this project will widen the roadway from the current layout of two lanes, to four lanes, incorporate a center median, and include pedestrian and cyclist lanes. This project also involves the construction of a new bridge over Panther Creek, replacing the existing box culvert. To complete a project like this, CWM is tasked with the total removal of 22,000+ Square Yards of existing asphalt, 145,000 cubic yards of mass excavation, 117,000+ Square Yards of sub grade preparation, 84,000+ Tons of new graded aggregate base stone, installation of 26,000+ Linear Feet of reinforced concrete drainage pipe, and 54,000+ Tons of new asphalt.
Henry and Clayton counties are among the fastest-growing counties in Georgia, with tens of thousands of residents commuting daily to and from Atlanta. Because of this, SR 42 is a key alternate route running parallel to I-75 and is often used by local traffic, freight movement, and emergency detours when interstates are congested. Widening to four lanes will help absorb increasing traffic volumes, especially as housing developments and logistical hubs expand south of Atlanta.
Once this project is complete, it will be another example of GDOT, and C.W. Matthews working together to continue Georgia's economic growth by:
1. Enhancing Freight and Logistical Movement throughout the State
• Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (the world’s busiest)
• The Port of Savannah (the fastest-growing container port in the U.S.)
• Major trucking corridors like I-75 and I-285.
• SR 42 connects directly to I-675, which in turn links to I-285, providing a vital bypass for freight moving between I-75 and Atlanta’s logistics hubs.
• Reduce travel time and delivery costs for goods.
• Improve freight reliability, critical for just-in-time logistics and manufacturing.
2. Support Economic Development and Residential & Commercial Expansion
• The southern crescent of Metro Atlanta, especially cities like Stockbridge and McDonough, is booming with new housing, distribution centers, and commercial developments.
• Infrastructure like the SR 42 widening is necessary to attract and retain employers, who require reliable transportation for workers and goods.
• Improved access to interstates also boosts property values and tax revenues, further fueling local government investments in education, safety, and services.
3. Sustainability and Multimodal Transportation - The project includes:
• Sidewalks and multi-use paths, promoting walking, cycling, and alternative commuting.
• Modern stormwater systems and bridge replacements, which are vital for climate resilience.
This aligns with Georgia’s goal to balance growth with environmental stewardship, making the state more livable and attractive to young professionals and families.
4. Bolstering Georgia’s Role as an Economic Powerhouse - Georgia is the 8th-largest state economy in the U.S., with strong sectors in:
• Logistics and warehousing
• Film and entertainment.
• Aerospace and manufacturing
• Technology and Finance
Between Henry + Clayton County
