ARCHER LODGE –– Construction work began Tuesday on the Covered Bridge Road widening project, marking the start of a two-year effort to improve safety and mobility along this growing corridor.
Contract crews will begin relocating primarily water lines along the left side of Covered Bridge Road as drivers travel eastbound. This early utility work is the first step in preparing the 1.5-mile section to be widened to three lanes, including an open center lane.
Although the utility work will be on the left side, the contractor will start the widening by improving the right side as drivers travel eastward.
For most of the construction period, Covered Bridge Road will remain in its normal two-lane, two-way traffic pattern. However, drivers should be prepared for daily lane closures and brief traffic stoppages as crews move equipment and complete work within the roadway. During these closures, access will be maintained for homes and business driveways along Covered Bridge Road.
Lane closures may occur overnight or on weekends. They also can occur on weekdays, but the contractor is restricted from closing or narrowing a travel lane during the morning and afternoon commutes.
The N.C. Department of Transportation reminds drivers to use caution when traveling through this area, and to:
- Slow down
- Obey all posted work zone signs
- Watch for crews and equipment working close to the travel lanes
Motorists should plan ahead for possible delays and allow extra travel time when moving through this corridor.
Construction on the $12.3 million project on Covered Bridge Road stretching from west of Helena Lane to east of Buffalo Road is expected to be completed the summer of 2028.