The Georgia Department of Transportation is seeking input from citizens in east-central Georgia on the draft Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) during the public comment period open through Aug. 15.
Every three years, Georgia DOT works closely with the citizens of Georgia, local governments, and interested stakeholders to develop the STIP—a four-year plan outlining transportation and capital improvements across the state. The STIP includes federally funded projects statewide, except for those within Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) boundaries—generally areas with big cities. Projects are chosen through a process that considers state and federal priorities, available funding, technical analysis, and input from local governments, regional partners, and the public.
Georgia DOT is inviting the public to attend an in-person public information open house meeting and provide feedback. In Southwest Georgia, the meeting will be held Monday, July 27 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Margaret Jones Public Library located at 205 E. Pope St., Sylvester, GA 31791.
Additionally, the official STIP website offers a comprehensive and user-friendly platform where visitors can review the draft STIP at any time, including if they are unable to attend an in-person meeting. Using an interactive mapping tool, users can easily locate projects in their communities, review detailed project descriptions, funding sources, and anticipated timelines. The site also includes an online survey, allowing residents to submit comments and questions directly.
The STIP public involvement process invites citizens and stakeholders to help shape how tax dollars are invested for the 2027–2030 cycle. Designed to be transparent and inclusive, it encourages community participation throughout planning and decision-making stages.
For those who prefer to review information offline and/or are unable to attend an in-person event, citizens can schedule a visit by calling the district office during regular business hours, Monday through Friday. District staff can provide printed materials, answer questions, and offer personalized support to help residents better understand the STIP projects affecting their area.
The GDOT Southwest District contact information is as follows:
710 W. 2nd St.
Tifton, GA 31794
(229) 391-5430
Public input helps Georgia DOT identify the priorities that matter most to your community and guides how the STIP allocates resources and schedules projects. Questions and comments regarding the STIP may also be sent to the Georgia DOT Planning Office at STIPCoordinator@dot.ga.gov.
