State bonds initiative to fund North Carolina highway project

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North Carolina Department of Transportation officials said efforts to widen 1.5 miles of U.S. 70 in Guilford County would be funded via the Build NC Bonds initiative.

The work is slated between Mt. Hope Church/McLeansville Road and Birch Creek Road east of Greensboro. The project would reduce congestion and improve safety in response to growing traffic volumes along the highway.

The scope calls for widening to five lanes, including a shared center turn lane and intersections enhanced at Mt. Hope Church Road, Debanne Road, Pine Tree Drive, Spruce Tree Drive, Birch Creek Road, and Sun Lake Drive.

Build NC Bonds will help pay for the $11.1 million project that was recently awarded to the Thompson Arthur division of APAC Atlantic Inc., authorities noted, indicating the project represents one of four segments encompassing a broader project to widen U.S. 70 between Penry Road and Rock Creek Dairy Road. The section between Penry and Willowlake roads is already complete, and the eastern sections are being considered for future funding.

North Carolina DOT officials anticipate construction between Mt. Hope Church/McLeansville Road and Birch Creek Road east of Greensboro beginning as early as July 1, with substantial completion by November 2021.