A new state construction project is working to widen a local stretch of Interstate 40. The highway will expand from two lanes to three lanes in each direction in the coming weeks.
The North Carolina Local Government Commission approved $300 million in Grant Anticipation Revenue Vehicle or “GARVEE” bonds. This is money given to projects in anticipation of future federal money.
Of the $300 million statewide, $55 million is dedicated to the project to widen Interstate 40 from Highway 15-501 through west of Interstate 85 in Orange County.
In addition to adding one lane in each direction, the project includes temporary pavement markings and overhead lane use signs on the westbound section of I-40. This is to remove the existing left lane drop near 15-501 in Durham County.
Project managers said the widening should improve traffic flow along the corridor and relieve congestion during rush hour.
Dale Folwell, the North Carolina State Treasurer, spoke with 97.9 The Hill about the project. He said he hopes North Carolinians are patient while the project occurs.
“It’s going to be fussy for a while,” Folwell said. “While this construction is taking place we ask all of your listeners to just to be patient with that. More importantly, I just hope that you know when this gets done that it’s done. Your listeners know that an accomplishment is only an accomplishment for as long as it lasts.”
Folwell said he hopes this project will have a long-lasting impact on Orange County and be as least disruptive as possible to road users and as safe as possible for construction workers.
He said there is not a set timeline yet on the project because of ongoing worker shortages the state is experiencing.
“The employment crisis is not only affecting state and local government,” said Folwell, “the employment crisis is also affecting road contractors and their ability to get people to actually do the work. So this is something that could possibly slow it down.”
Construction could begin in a few weeks, according to the state government. The project spans 11 miles, which thousands of drivers travel on each week.
Photo via AARoads, Alex Nitzman and Brent Ivy.
Chapelboro.com does not charge subscription fees. You can support local journalism and our mission to serve the community. Contribute today – every single dollar matters.
The post Orange County Section of I-40 To Add 2 Lanes; Construction Begins in Weeks appeared first on Chapelboro.com.