WILSON – Starting Tuesday morning, the N.C. Department of Transportation plans to close the N.C. 42 (Herring Avenue) bridge over U.S. 301 for approximately 120 days to begin an extensive rehabilitation of the 64-year-old structure.
The closure is necessary so contract crews can safely repair the bridge deck and supports and upgrade key components that have deteriorated over time and require more maintenance. These improvements will enhance the bridge's long-term safety and extend its service life.
As part of this work, the bridge's clearance over the highway will be elevated by about nine inches to help avoid future strikes from passing trucks. In addition, grooves will be added to the surface to increase traction for safety and help water drain off the bridge.
These two detours, depending on the direction of travel, will be utilized:
- For westbound travelers, signs will direct drivers onto Varnell Road, then Weaver Road, and onto U.S. 301 to return to N.C. 42 past the bridge.
- For eastbound traffic, drivers will take Ward Boulevard to U.S. 301 at Lipscomb Road, then follow 301 up to the N.C. 42 bridge and exit to continue eastbound.
Motorists should plan for longer commutes and use caution when traveling near the area.