Raleigh — Although a public information meeting regarding proposals to improve traffic flow at the Airport Boulevard interchange for Interstate 40 in Morrisville has already been held, there is still time to learn about the options and offer your opinion on them.
Two alternatives are under consideration. One is a diverging diamond interchange, which would be among the first of that type in the Triangle. The other is a partial cloverleaf interchange which is similar to what is currently in place. In both cases, the 47-year-old bridge that goes over I-40 would be replaced by a wider structure.
A diverging diamond interchange is intended to improve the flow of a high volume of traffic through an intersection or interchange without needing additional traffic signals or lanes, and it creates easier access for interstates. There are more than a dozen of them already handling traffic around the state with more planned, including on the upcoming I-440 widening project.
The partial cloverleaf alternative would add a loop ramp on the northwest corner of the interchange for drivers on I-40 West who want to go south on the boulevard. The current setup has those motorists using a typical interstate exit ramp, then turning left at a traffic light at the end of the ramp. That often creates a backup down the ramp during commute times.
Both options include bike and pedestrian improvements.
Construction on whichever alternative is selected could begin in 2019.
Interested parties who couldn't attend the Jan. 30 public meeting can review the proposal maps at the public meetings section of the NCDOT website. They can also give their input on the project through February 14 by contacting NCDOT Project Manager Bob Deaton at rdeaton@ncdot.gov or (919) 707-6017.
Contact: Steve Abbott
(919) 707-2600
swabbott@ncdot.gov