Interstate 675 (Georgia)


Interstate 675 is an auxiliary Interstate Highway in the southeast part of the Atlanta metropolitan area. It travels from I-75 in Stockbridge in the south to I-285 in the north. I-675 is also designated as the Terrell Starr Parkway and also has the unsigned internal state route designation of State Route 413.

Route description

Beginning at its southern terminus with Interstate 75, Interstate 675 is a four lane highway with a grassy median and frequently with cable barriers. Between Ellenwood Road/Forest Parkway and the route's northern terminus at Interstate 285 and Moreland Avenue, the freeway expands with three lanes in each direction.
The southern end of Interstate 675 includes reversible High occupancy/toll and express toll lanes built within the median, the South Metro Express Lanes, which opened January 28, 2017.
The entire length of I-675 is part of the National Highway System, a system of routes determined to be the most important for the nation's economy, mobility, and defense.

History

At one time, I-675 was to connect with I-485/SR 400 east of downtown Atlanta. However, this would have destroyed many neighborhoods including Inman Park. Because it was thought that the road was unnecessary due to three other existing north–south Interstates across and around the city, and due to community opposition, the highway was stopped by then-governor of Georgia Jimmy Carter in 1975. After I-485 was cancelled, it was then planned to end at once proposed I-420 near Gresham Park. However, in 1986, I-420 was cancelled for the same reason. So, its northern terminus is at I-285 instead. What would have been the interchange between this road and I-485 is now the location of the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum.
In 1982, the entire length of the highway was under construction. In 1987, it was open to traffic.

Future

As of 2010, the idea of connecting I-675 and SR 400 has been resurrected, being put on an official list of GDOT priorities. This would extend I-675 north to I-20 with a surface road, then go underground with a road tunnel. This would displace some neighborhoods and industrial areas to the south. The tunnel would protect other areas north of I-20, however there would still be ventilation buildings.

Exit list