Today, the City of Port Wentworth is launching a public information campaign to prepare residents, business owners, drivers, and regional partners for upcoming changes along Coastal Highway in downtown Port Wentworth to improve safety and support revitalization. The ban of semi-truck traffic from the downtown corridor of Coastal Highway will be fully enforced beginning July 1, 2026 with the public information campaign running through May and June as truck drivers adapt to taking designated alternate routes.

This campaign supports the City’s broader effort to improve public safety, reduce heavy truck congestion, and transform downtown into a more walkable, business-friendly destination for residents and visitors. Last year, the Georgia Department of Transportation approved Port Wentworth’s request to assume local jurisdiction over the downtown portion of State Route 25 from Grange Road to Bonnybridge Road. This is a major step in redirecting through-truck traffic away from the city center and converting the corridor from a truck-dominated thoroughfare into a pedestrian-focused main street.

“This is an important step forward in further improving safety and quality of life in our downtown,” said City Manager Steve Davis. “Reducing semi-truck traffic through this corridor has been a priority for our community. We recognize this shift will require coordination with our trucking and logistics partners, which is why we are taking a thoughtful, phased approach focused on communication and collaboration. Our goal is to ensure a smooth transition while positioning Port Wentworth for long-term economic growth and a more vibrant downtown.”

From May 1 through May 30, the City of Port Wentworth will focus on public education, flyer distribution, text alerts, signage installation, and community outreach to ensure drivers—especially truck operators—are aware of the upcoming changes. During that same period, the City plans to move forward with proposed ordinance and speed limit changes and may host public town hall meetings to share information and answer questions.

From June 1 through June 30, the City will continue its outreach campaign and begin a formal warning period for truck traffic that has not transitioned to designated alternative routes. The City will also continue coordination with the Georgia Ports Authority, Jasper County, South Carolina, Garden City, and transportation partners to strengthen route awareness and directional signage on key approaches to downtown.

Beginning July 1, full enforcement will begin, restricting semi-truck traffic from the downtown corridor.

Residents, business owners, truck drivers, and logistics partners are encouraged to review official notices, follow posted signage, and stay informed through the City’s website and official communication channels.

For more information about the City of Port Wentworth, visit portwentworthga.gov.