ROWAN COUNTY – Drivers in China Grove and Landis have a new option for accessing U.S. 29 from Main Street at the border of the southern Rowan County towns.
A new road, Coach Deal Drive, now extends south from South Main Street to where Bostian Road intersects U.S. 29.
The first section of Coach Deal Drive, from South Main Street across the railroad tracks to North Chapel Street, was completed in 2016. Construction on the second section, from North Chapel Street to U.S. 29, began in 2018.
The full route opened to traffic with the substantial completion of the second section on Aug. 22.
“The ability for citizens of Landis and China Grove to readily access N.C. Highway 29, the new Old Beatty Ford Road/I-85 interchange or any number of other locations more conveniently will prove to be an immense asset to our community for years to come," said Landis Interim Town Manager Leonard Barefoot.
Both the China Grove and Landis town councils voted to name the new road in honor of the late Larry Deal, coaching legend and former athletic director at South Rowan High School.
“We are extremely pleased to name the new street in memory of Coach Larry Deal," said China Grove Town Manager Ken Deal. “He was an inspiration and mentor to hundreds of students in the South Rowan area. He dedicated his life to the betterment of our community."
While the route is open to traffic, crews are expected to be on site conducting closeout work through mid-October.
Drivers are urged to obey the posted speed limit and watch out for crews working near the travel lanes along the new roadway.