CORE MPO, in cooperation with Effingham County, is undertaking the SR 26/US 80 Scoping Study Phase II (PI No. 0020786). The study will include analyses of land use, community, capacity, and safety along the corridor from its western terminus at the Effingham County/Bryan County line (Ogeechee River) to its eastern terminus at the Effingham County/Chatham County line.

This study will:

• Utilize data to evaluate the operation and safety of the corridor with strong consideration given to access management improvements;
• Consider freight, commuter, and local traffic as well as pedestrian/bicyclist travelers;
• Provide recommendations for the alignment of the planned Hi-Lo Trail; and
• Account for current and future land use patterns and anticipated continued growth, including from the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA).

The goal of the study will be to identify and prioritize short-term, mid-term, and long-term improvements in a prioritized list of recommendations to facilitate the planning and programming of projects through the Metropolitan Transportation Process (MTP).