o Roundabouts would require significantly more property impacts.
o Roundabouts are more expensive to construct. Project is partially funded through a federal safety program, so funding is limited.
o Future growth considerations: Traffic signals can more easily be modified to handle increased volumes as compared to a single-lane roundabout.
o All intersection signals will have both options. If the left-turning vehicle queues are not cleared during the flashing yellow arrow phase, a green arrow (protected left) phase will follow.
o This dual option improves traffic flow and safety.
o All signals will be coordinated through radio communication to improve the flow of traffic through the arrow.
o The Fire Station emergency signal will only stop Covered Bridge Road traffic when it is activated by emergency personnel from inside the Fire Station.
o The sources are the Federal HSIP (Highway Safety Improvement Program) & State Trust Fund, which is funded in part from the fuel tax, DMV fees, highway use tax and sales tax)
o Covered Bridge Road widening is part of the approved Johnston County Comprehensive Transportation Plan.
o NCDOT held a public meeting about this project (W-5704E) in 2018.
o 2020 – 12,000 vehicles per day on average
o 2046 – Projected to carry about 20,000 vehicles per day
o Yes, future traffic projections are used by NCDOT to determine the appropriate roadway design. The planned three-lane section to be built is expected to accommodate the projected 20-year traffic growth.
o Significant history of crashes with injuries: 16 crashes in 10 years.
o Poor intersection geometry.
o This safety improvement was made after NCDOT discussed the crash history with the Town of Archer Lodge in the summer of 2025
The Contractor can begin roadway work on September 1, 2026. Roadway construction is set to be substantially completed by June 30, 2028.
Contractor shall not close or narrow lanes of traffic during the following time periods:
Monday to Friday: 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Standard Holiday restrictions included
No road closures are expected during construction. All work should be completed utilizing flagging operations.
Access to residences and businesses will be maintained at all times.
