WINSTON-SALEM – N.C. Department of Transportation maintenance crews are making headway this afternoon after work began Monday, Aug. 27, on a small portion of Interstate 40 between U.S. 52 and N.C. 109 where a median wall shifted over time, posing a threat to the safety of travelers through Winston-Salem.
“After assessing the median wall, our engineers determined that if an accident occurred in this area, the wall would not withstand a severe crash, posing a risk not only to drivers involved but to travelers on the opposite side of the highway,” said Division Engineer Pat Ivey. “With safety being the Department’s top priority we have to temporarily inconvenience drivers in an effort to save lives that may be threatened.”
Continual eastbound and off-peak westbound lane closures will be in effect from now until 5 p.m. on Friday, Sep. 21, weather permitting as the following takes place:
- Concrete on the damaged median is cut,
- Large pieces are removed,
- Clean up of the area takes place in preparation for construction,
- New concrete is poured, and
- New seals between median walls are poured in this area as a preventative measure.
“Historically there have been some pretty bad accidents in this area and we must shore-up this median now ahead of the closure of Business 40 this fall as well as the winter-weather season,” said Division 9 Maintenance Engineer John Rhyne.
This maintenance project complements the NC Vision Zero initiative across our state.
Vision Zero is a campaign to reach zero traffic-related fatalities through a myriad of ways including better designed and maintained roads.
“We appreciate the public’s patience as maintenance crews work to address this wear and tear related issue,” said Ivey.
While this portion of highway will not be completely closed, transportation officials advise drivers to slow down as they approach the work zone and stay alert.
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