Atlanta's Already Congested Highways Might Get Worse After Collapse

Three people are facing charges after a fire caused a chunk of Interstate 85 in Atlanta to collapse. 

Investigators say the trio, all believed to be homeless, started the fire intentionally on Thursday.

Thirty-nine-year-old Basil Eleby was charged with first-degree arson. The other two — Barry Thomas and Sophia Brauer — have been charged with criminal tresspass.

Officials say that section of highway might be down for a few months — which is bad news for Atlanta.

It's one of the most congested cities in the U.S., and more than 250,000 people drive I-85 daily. 

Traffic's Costing You More Than You Think, Especially In These Cities

Traffic's Costing You More Than You Think, Especially In These Cities

Between gas, time wasted and higher prices for consumers, the cost of stop-and-go traffic adds up.

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There's probably going to be even more people in Atlanta this week. The Masters golf tournament starts Thursday in Augusta, and Atlanta has the closest international airport.

Alternative highways already saw a 50 percent increase in traffic the day after the fire, and major streets saw a 25 percent increase.

State officials have detour plans in place for commuters, but they're still warning drivers to expect significant delays.