SYLVA – Ideas are starting to take shape for improvements to Dillard Road between Highlands and the Georgia state line.
The N.C. Department of Transportation is evaluating the idea of upgrading N.C. 106 (Dillard Road) to a three-lane highway between Main Street and Highlands Plaza. The proposal would also improve the existing two lanes between Highland Plaza and the state line. Construction would start in 2027.
The agency is so early in the planning process that funding has not been secured. The project, supported by the Southwestern Rural Planning Organization, the Town of Highlands and Macon County, needs to score higher in the transportation project selection process than other proposed projects in a 10-county area.
Local leaders from the city and county and the NCDOT have decided to hold a public meeting from 4-7 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 30, at Highlands Community Building, 71 Poplar Street to answer questions and receive comments about the proposal.
Project information and materials, including maps, can be viewed as they become available online.
The public may visit at any time to meet with NCDOT representatives as there will not be a formal presentation. Comments will be accepted at the meeting, or via phone, email or mail until Sept. 14. All comments will be considered as the project develops.
Contact J. Scott Miller III, NCDOT Division 14 Project Manager at 828-586-2141 or 253 Webster Road, Sylva, NC 28779 for additional information or to submit comments.
NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled persons who wish to participate in the meeting. Anyone requiring special services should contact Caitlyn Ridge, Environmental Analysis Unit Public Involvement Officer at 919-707-6091 as early as possible to make arrangements.
Persons who speak Spanish and have a limited ability to read, speak or understand English may receive interpretive services upon request prior to the meeting by calling 1-800-481-6494.