Widening project expected to be completed by December
Drivers will encounter a new traffic pattern this weekend where crews are completing a $13.2 million project to widen and extend Booker Dairy Road on Smithfield’s northeast side.
A contractor for the N.C. Department of Transportation is widening the two-lane road into four lanes with a raised median from Buffalo Road to U.S. 301. About half of the existing route is being improved, while the remaining portion will be constructed east of the existing roadway.
The new roadway will run roughly parallel to the old portion and connect with Ava Gardner Avenue at the Walmart on Highway 301. The total length of the project is 2.1 miles.
A T-intersection has been built where the new roadway and the existing portion that will not be widened converge.
Beginning on Friday evening (Nov. 1st), crews will perform pavement work and add striping before shifting drivers to the new intersection, which will get a traffic signal as part of this project.
Drivers will encounter flagging operations until the new traffic pattern is completed by Saturday afternoon. They should expect delays and be alert and drive cautiously though the work zone.
If it rains Friday night, the work and new traffic pattern may take effect Saturday evening through Sunday afternoon instead.
The project is expected to be completed by December with all four lanes open.
