Richmond Hill has joined the efforts of the Bryan County commissioners in determining their contribution for the interchange at Belfast Siding Road and Interstate 95.

During a regular meeting Tuesday, the City Council unanimously approved to contribute up to $200,000 toward the project. The Bryan County Board of Commissioners also approved to contribute the same amount during a called meeting Monday.

The approval from both the council and Board of Commissioners means a letter can now be sent to the Department of Transportation in attempt to get the project on Georgia’s Statewide Transportation Improvement Project (STIP) list for 2014-2017.

The interchange — which is expected will enhance the planned Belfast Commerce Centre industrial park — has been on local officials’ wish lists for some time. The action by the City Council and county board is part of an agreement with Belfast Commerce Centre landowner Rayonier for monetary contributions to the future interchange.

The resolution notes the city’s contribution, like Bryan County’s, will help with wetlands mitigation costs and that TerraPointe, the real estate arm of Rayonier, will be responsible for providing land necessary for the right-of-way needed for the interchange.
Fowler noted the important part of the resolution is the stipulation that the city will not pay its portion until TerraPointe has applied to annex the industrial and commercial property for Belfast Commerce Centre into the city.

Read more in the Feb. 9 edition of the News.