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Residents warn I‑285 expansion threatens homes; commissioners say GDOT eminent‑domain process limits county control but will re‑engage
Summary
Clarkston-area residents said a proposed I‑285 expansion shifted from a one‑lane to a four‑lane plan and now could require yard takings and removal of apartment complexes; Commissioner Johnson said the county lacks unilateral power to stop GDOT eminent‑domain actions but will advocate and pursue negotiated approaches before exercising eminent‑domain authority.
A group of residents raised concerns that the I‑285 expansion proposal — originally a one‑lane plan — has grown and may now require taking backyards and apartment complexes through eminent domain, potentially displacing households including immigrants and refugees. They asked county commissioners to intervene and advocate to GDOT to avoid or limit takings.
Commissioner Johnson said the county has been engaged with GDOT but does not currently have unilateral control over state road projects or eminent‑domain uses by GDOT or Georgia Power. She said the commission can advocate and, in some cases, use eminent domain itself, but prefers negotiation and alternatives to displacement. Johnson promised to re‑engage GDOT and include updates in future newsletters while clarifying that legal constraints limit county options.
Why it matters: Road expansions that require right‑of‑way acquisitions can displace residents and affect affordable housing; residents want sustained communication and advocacy from county officials while understanding the limits of county authority over state transportation projects.
