Neuse River Bridge Project Requires U.S. 301 Lane Closures

Traffic will take turns crossing the bridge

SMITHFIELD, N.C. – Drivers should expect weekday delays on U.S. 301 when crossing the Neuse River over the next few weeks. They should seek alternate routes, if possible.

The state highway contractor replacing the two-lane bridge outside Smithfield began closing one lane on May 14 to safely install a temporary water line. Flagging crews are guiding traffic through the work zone in one direction at a time between Wal Pat Road and Packing Plant Road.

The contractor will be using these lane closures weekdays from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. through May 22. At other times, the bridge will be fully opened with one lane available in each direction.

S.T. Wooten began replacing the bridge last year. The existing structure was built in 1926 and widened in 1951. The new bridge is being constructed alongside the current one.

The $9.4 million project is expected to be completed by fall 2028