SMITHFIELD – The pair of rest areas along Interstate 95 in Johnston County will be renovated under a $1.4 million contract awarded by the N.C. Department of Transportation.
The interior of both buildings on the northbound and southbound sides of the highway will get face-lifts. All major fixtures, such as lighting, sinks, toilets and urinals will be replaced, and a more energy-efficient heating and cooling system will be installed.
The contractor, Calvin Davenport Inc. of Rocky Mount, will renovate one rest area at a time, starting with the northbound location on Aug. 1. The work will require the rest area to close to the public for about four months. When finished, the contractor will similarly close and renovate the southbound rest area.
Drivers will be able to visit other I-95 rest areas in Cumberland, Nash and Northampton counties.
The department, which operates 59 rest areas, typically renovates or reconstructs, if necessary, the buildings every 20 to 25 years.