GASTONIA – The N.C. Department of Transportation is holding a public meeting next week to gather input on a proposed project to improve traffic flow on U.S. 74 (Wilkinson Boulevard) between Wesleyan Drive and Alberta Avenue, and to replace the existing bridge over the south fork of the Catawba River.
Under the proposal, this section of Wilkinson Boulevard would be widened from four to six lanes. The existing bridge would be replaced with a six-lane structure, including a sidewalk on one side and a multi-use path on the other.
The U.S. 74 project was originally submitted for funding consideration by the Gaston-Cleveland-Lincoln Metropolitan Planning Organization. Bridge replacements are programmed through a separate ranking system.
A public meeting will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, at McAdenville Wesleyan Church, 300 Wesleyan Drive. People may attend the meeting at any time, as no formal presentation will be made.
Local residents who cannot attend the meeting may submit comments in writing or by phone through April 18. All comments received will be reviewed and considered for the final design.
To send comments or learn more, contact NCDOT Project Engineer Thad Duncan at 980-552-4227. You may also submit comments to P.O. Box 47, Shelby, N.C., 28151-0047.
NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled persons who wish to participate in this meeting. Anyone requiring special services should contact Matthew LeShure at 919-707-6087 as early as possible so arrangements can be made.
People who do not speak English, or 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.