SMITHFIELD – A bridge on N.C. 210 west of Smithfield will be replaced starting this summer.
Built during the Great Depression, the bridge spanning Middle Creek is nearing the end of its lifespan. Although the bridge has been maintained for safety, it has become functionally obsolete and structurally deficient, which means it requires extensive maintenance and has an antiquated design.
The N.C. Department of Transportation awarded the $3.2 million construction contract to Wilson-based S.T. Wooten Corp. last week.
The contractor is expected to institute the road closure in June in order to demolish the bridge and replace it with a modern structure. The closure will last about 13 months. Before the closure, NCDOT will post the road's status at DriveNC.gov, where people can search under Johnston County.