Extension Project to Improve Congestion and Connect US31E Northeast of Downtown Gallatin

Nashville, TN – November 3, 2009 -- Gresham, Smith and Partners, a leading multi-disciplinary design and consulting firm to the built environment, announces it has been selected by the City of Gallatin, Tennessee to provide transportation planning, environmental and design services for a 1.69 mile widening and extension of Albert Gallatin Avenue/Hatten Track Road in Gallatin.  Transportation services include the preparation of a Transportation Planning Report identifying possible extension corridors, the environmental assessment of those alternatives and ultimately the actual roadway and bridge design of the selected alignment.  The construction of the new roadway will aid in alleviating congestion in downtown Gallatin by providing a northern Bypass to allow SR 109 traffic to connect with US 31E northeast of downtown Gallatin.  GS&P will coordinate with TDOT’s Local Programs Office during the development of the project as the project is funded with Federal Surface Transportation Program funds administered through TDOT.

The proposed improvement includes the widening of existing Albert Gallatin Avenue from SR 174 (Dobbins Pike) to North Blythe Avenue and then the construction of a new roadway from North Blythe Avenue to SR 109.  The project will include the replacement of the existing bridge over the CSX railroad and the layout of a future interchange at the SR 109 connection.

"By extending Albert Gallatin Avenue/Hatten Track Road we hope to improve congestion issues and divert traffic from downtown Gallatin, especially in the afternoon peak hours while also providing improved access to the residents of the Hatten Track neighborhood," stated Gallatin Mayor Jo Ann Graves.  "GS&P will work closely with our city staff to develop a new roadway alignment that will enhance safety and mobility for motorists traveling this route and will make certain that the design complies with all provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)."

 GS&P will prepare a package of information for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) which will result in instruction from FHWA to the City on the level of documentation needed to comply with NEPA. Environmental screening will be used to indentify any environmental constraints that must be considered in developing the project. Screening will rely heavily on field survey, online data services and local program input as well as field observations. Constraints identified through screening will include proposed development, wetlands, hazardous materials, floodplains, historic properties, cemeteries, minority or disadvantaged populations, and community facilities.

 "We look forward to working with the City of Gallatin on this project," stated Bill Moore, P.E., senior vice president of Transportation, Gresham, Smith and Partners. "Our team will work with the City of Gallatin and TDOT to meet their needs by providing environmentally and aesthetically-friendly designs that are focused on cost efficiency and constructability."

This contract is being led by Gresham, Smith and Partners with subconsultant support from Long Engineering, Inc., Third Rock Consultants, LLC, and TRC.

 Gresham, Smith and Partners recently completed two successful projects in Gallatin, including the construction of Harris Lane (Greenlea Blvd) and modifications for the US 31E/SR 109 interchange. The firm is currently finishing environmental and design services for the City on Big Station Camp Blvd at US 31E (Nashville Pike), which is expected to go to contract soon.  

About GS&P:
Gresham, Smith and Partners provides design and consulting solutions for the built environment that contribute to the success of national and international clients.  For more than 40 years, GS&P has focused on enhancing quality of life and sustainability within communities.  GS&P consists of industry-leading professionals practicing architecture and engineering design as well as scientists and highly specialized planning and strategic consultants in Aviation, Corporate and Urban Design, Environmental Compliance, Healthcare, Industrial, Land Planning, Transportation and Water Services.  GS&P consistently ranks among the top architecture and engineering firms in the United States.  For more information regarding GS&P, visit www.gspnet.com.