RALEIGH – The following are highlights from this week at the N.C. Department of Transportation. The stories below are also featured in NCDOT Now, the department's weekly newscast.
Traffic Signal Flash Mode Change
The North Carolina Department of Transportation is improving safety at intersections when a traffic signal malfunctions.
The department has started modifying traffic signals so they will flash red in every direction when there is an equipment failure or something else that disrupts their normal operation. Currently, a malfunctioning signal flashes yellow on the main corridor and red on smaller roads.
As drivers approach an intersection that is malfunctioning, when this change takes place, the red flashing display signifies a need to stop.
In the next year, over 9,000 traffic signals across the state will be modified.
NASCAR in North Wilkesboro
The 2024 NASCAR All-Star Race will take place this Sunday night at the North Wilkesboro Speedway. NCDOT encourages race fans to be patient if traveling to attend the race this weekend.
Overhead and portable message signs will be used to alert motorists of problem areas and suggest alternative routes to avoid congestion.
The department also advises motorists to check for real-time traffic information by visiting
DriveNC.gov from mobile devices.
Bridge Dedications
The Drexel Road bridge over I-40 in Burke County has been dedicated to the late Jason Hensley, a Triple Community volunteer firefighter killed in 2017 when he was hit by a vehicle while clearing storm debris.
Friends, family, officials with Burke County and members of the fire department gathered to pay tribute to Hensley at a ceremony last week.
Also, a 6-mile stretch of I-40 in Johnston County now bears the name of well-known country singer, Jimmy Capps. Capps was born in Fayetteville and raised in Benson; he died in 2020 at the age of 81.
For more information about NCDOT Now, contact the NCDOT Communications Office at (919) 707-2660. Additional news stories from throughout the week can be found on
NCDOT.gov.