GRANITE FALLS — Local motorists and visitors now have a safer way to drive through Granite Falls.
N.C. Department of Transportation officials recently opened a new
roundabout at the intersection of Duke Street and Hunter’s Creek Lane. Officials also opened a new road from that intersection to U.S. 321A at Short Street, and closed the Duke Street at U.S. 321A where it crosses railroad tracks.
The roundabout decreases the possibility of dangerous T-bone crashes and increases traffic flow in the neighborhood west of U.S. 321A. The new road and signalized intersection creates a safer route from drivers to cross the highway through Granite Falls.
Placing traffic in this new pattern signals the upcoming completion of the $3.4 million project to improve safety and increase mobility in town.
Crews for the contractor, Vannoy & Sons, are still working on the final significant tasks in the projects, including new curb and gutter. The final layer of asphalt and lane markings will be placed after March 15, and before crews start the final punch-list.
“We’re delighted to have traffic using the new route and we will certainly see the benefits in the long run,” Division 11 Resident Engineer Ivan Dishman said. “This is a big project for the town of Granite Falls and we’re happy to have the finish line in sight."