Work On Benson Bridge And Roundabout Continues To Progress

BENSON, N.C. – Construction on the new roundabout and bridge overhaul on N.C. 50 at Interstate 95 continues to make significant progress as the N.C. Department of Transportation aims to reopen the interchange on Sunday night, July 12.

In recent weeks, contract crews have finished installing sidewalks, completed the new bridge surface and placed the metal rail along the bridge. Additional curb and gutter sections have also been constructed, marking another productive stretch since the department last updated the public on the project on June 18.

Even with that visible progress, several tasks remain to be completed this week, including placing the final layer of asphalt and installing the final pavement markings. If there are heavy rain showers, the asphalt paving has the potential to be delayed.

“We’ve made a lot of headway over the past few weeks, and crews have been working efficiently to keep this project moving and on schedule,” said Project Manager Randy Wise, an NCDOT consultant.

On May 28, the contractor closed the bridge and restricted access around it for a 45 day period.

After the bridge and new roundabout open to traffic Sunday night, weather permitting, crews will still be doing some minor work around this interchange in the coming weeks, so drivers should be alert when traveling in the work zone.

NCDOT and the contractor are scheduling the closure of the northbound I-95 entrance ramp at Exit 79 to align the ramp to the new roundabout. This closure will be announced when the date is determined.

These improvements are part of the I-95 widening and modernization project underway between Exits 71 and 81.