Work Begins On $12.3 Million Covered Bridge Road Project

ARCHER LODGE, N.C. – Construction began Tuesday on a $12.3 million project to widen a section of Covered Bridge Road in the Archer Lodge area.

The N.C. Department of Transportation project will widen approximately 1.5 miles of Covered Bridge Road, from west of Helena Lane to east of Buffalo Road.

The roadway will eventually be widened to three lanes, including an open center lane.

Crews are beginning with utility relocation, primarily moving water lines along the left side of Covered Bridge Road for motorists traveling eastbound.

Although the utility work is beginning on the left side, contractors are expected to start the roadway widening on the right side for eastbound traffic.

Covered Bridge Road is expected to remain open to two-way traffic through most of the construction period, but motorists should expect periodic lane closures and brief traffic stops as crews move equipment and work near the roadway.

Access to homes and businesses along Covered Bridge Road will be maintained during construction.

Lane closures may take place overnight or on weekends. Weekday lane closures are also possible, although contractors will not be permitted to close or narrow travel lanes during the morning and afternoon commuting periods.

Drivers traveling through the construction zone are being urged to slow down, watch for workers and equipment and follow posted traffic signs.

Motorists should also allow additional travel time when work is underway.

The project is expected to take about two years, with completion scheduled for summer 2028.