Beaufort - The N.C. Department of Transportation is currently replacing the
existing bascule bridge on U.S. 70 over Gallants Channel in Beaufort with a
65-foot fixed-span bridge—the height of a six story building.
Once completed in early 2019, the new Gallants Channel Bridge is
expected to significantly improve traffic in the area. The project also involves
widening U.S. 70 to four lanes with a median on a new location, and building a
bridge on Turner Street.
The improvements will improve traffic flow on U.S. 70 by will
eliminating traffic delays due to bridge openings. The $66.4 million
construction project began March 25, 2014, and is scheduled for completion in
early 2019.
Traffic was placed on the new bridge in a two-lane pattern January
27, 2018. Turner Street is slated to open in late April, providing an added
benefit to Beaufort area drivers. Demolition of the old Gallants Channel
Drawbridge will begin September 15, 2018 and will be completed March 30,
2019.