Project Overview
The N.C. Department of Transportation wants to improve safety on N.C. 143 west of Robbinsville from West Buffalo Creek to N.C. 143 Business. N.C. 143, a windy, two-lane road through the mountains, serves as the primary east-west corridor for Graham County.
The 4.5-mile section of N.C. 143 targeted for improvements has a crash rate that exceeds the state's average for rural two-lane roads as well as the critical crash rate. Over a three-year period, 59 accidents were reported along this section, more than half involving motorcycles. N.C. 143 connects to the Cherohala Skyway and is located near the Tail of the Dragon, two popular destinations for motorcyclists.
Proposed improvements include widening the pavement and shoulders, straightening curves, constructing turn lanes, resurfacing, and installing guardrails.