Project Overview
Construction is underway to build the final phase of the N.C. 43 Connector in Craven County. Construction will join the existing portion of the connector, which was completed in 2009. The approximate length of the project is 2.4 miles.
This new section will start south of U.S. 70/U.S. 17 and continue to U.S. 17 Business (Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard). The N.C. 43 Connector will be a four-lane, median-divided road, in a new location. Vehicular access points will be limited, allowing for increased through-traffic movement, making this a partially controlled road. A signalized intersection is planned at Shadow Brook Lane and Savory Drive, along with intersection improvements at U.S. 17 Business. Interchange improvements will be constructed at U.S. 70/U.S. 17.
This project aims to support Craven County’s economic growth and handle future traffic demands by creating a new connection between U.S. 17, N.C. 43, and the U.S. 17 Bypass. The connector will provide a direct route for trucks to U.S. 70, easing congestion on Glenburnie Road.
Project Funding
This project is listed as Project R-4463A in the
N.C. Department of Transportation's State Transportation Improvement Program and is funded for $49 million.
| Project development and design | $3,250,000
|
Property acquisition
| $8,000,000
|
| Construction costs | $38,000,000
|
|
Total cost |
$49,000,000 |
*Estimated costs subject to change
Project Timeline
Environmental assessment approved
| 2005
|
Right of way acquisition begins
| 2019
|
Utility relocation began
| 2023
|
Construction began
| September 2025
|
*Future dates subject to change