Selma Prepares For Two Major Road Projects In 2027

SELMA — Two N.C. Department of Transportation projects scheduled to begin in 2027 could bring significant traffic changes to Selma, including a roundabout on Buffalo Road and a temporary closure of River Road.

The Selma Town Council discussed both projects during its October meeting.

The larger project is the planned widening of Buffalo Road from U.S. 70 to Old Beulah Road.

The NCDOT will widen approximately 1.3 miles of Buffalo Road to three lanes, including a center turn lane.

The project will also include a large roundabout at the U.S. 70 interchange and changes to the westbound U.S. 70 entrance ramp and nearby roads.

Construction is estimated at approximately $25 million. NCDOT currently plans to advertise the project for construction bids in February 2027, with work expected to begin during the summer.

Town officials discussed the potential traffic impacts, particularly around the U.S. 70 interchange where Buffalo Road carries local traffic along with a significant amount of commercial truck traffic.

River Road Project
A second project will replace an aging culvert beneath River Road between Thompson Drive and River Oak Drive.

That projected $925,000 project is also scheduled to begin in summer 2027 and is expected to take approximately six months.

River Road is expected to be closed at the culvert during construction. NCDOT’s proposed detour would use West Oak Street and Buffalo Road.

The timing raised concerns because Buffalo Road itself could be under construction at the same time River Road traffic is being redirected onto it.

The River Road project will also have minor impacts near Brack Wilson Park, although access to properties along River Road is expected to be maintained.

Before either road project begins, several Town-owned utilities must be moved out of the construction areas.

The Town Council approved agreements with NCDOT during its October meeting allowing those utility relocations to move forward.

The construction schedule remain subject to change as NCDOT completes final design, utility and contracting work.