Utility Issue Delays Work On U.S. 301 Bridge Replacement Over Neuse River

SMITHFIELD, N.C. — Construction on the U.S. 301 bridge replacement over the Neuse River south of Smithfield has been delayed for several weeks due to an unanticipated utility issue, according to the N.C. Department of Transportation.

Work on the project is currently paused while crews wait on materials needed to install a temporary waterline. The delay stems from the discovery of an existing waterline in close proximity to planned construction activity.

Andrew Barksdale, a public relations officer with the N.C. Department of Transportation, said the issue arose after work had already started.

“After work had begun and the existing waterline was exposed, it was determined a temporary waterline needed to be installed so as not to impact the pipe while shoring is completed,” Barksdale said.

Shoring provides temporary support to bridge structures and excavation areas during construction.

The installation of the temporary waterline is necessary before crews can continue work on the new bridge. Barksdale said the delay was not anticipated.

Officials expect construction to resume within the next few weeks once materials arrive and the temporary line is in place.

The project involves removing and replacing the aging U.S. 301 bridge spanning the Neuse River. The current bridge, originally built in 1926 and widened in 1951, is nearing the end of its useful life.

Under the project plan, traffic will remain open during the estimated three-year construction period. Crews are building new lanes on the west side of the existing bridge before shifting traffic and demolishing the old structure.

The NCDOT awarded a contract in 2025 for $9.4 million for the new bridge. 

Once completed, the new bridge will feature one lane in each direction with a center turn lane, consistent with the existing U.S. 301 traffic pattern on both sides of the river.