April 9, 2025

Major Construction Improvements on U.S. 64 in Dare County

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News Summary

Significant road improvements are set to begin on U.S. 64 in Dare County, focusing on enhancing safety and traffic flow. Construction starts on April 2, 2025, with a project cost of $2.4 million. Crews will be working on multiple sections, including crucial waterline repairs and new bridge construction over the Alligator River. These enhancements aim to alleviate traffic congestion and improve infrastructure, with the new bridge expected to be completed in 2029. Residents and travelers should prepare for changing traffic patterns during the construction period.

Big Improvements Coming to U.S. 64 in Dare County

Attention all travelers and residents of Dare County! Major construction activities are about to kick off on a critical stretch of U.S. 64. This essential road, often bustling with traffic, will undergo significant improvements starting **April 2, 2025**. As the clock ticks down, motorists are being urged to stay alert as they navigate through the work zones.

What to Expect from the Construction

The Raleigh-based Fred Smith Company has been contracted to revamp a five-lane section of U.S. 64, particularly focusing on the area stretching from the famous Melvin R. Daniels Bridge to the Washington Baum Bridge. Milling and resurfacing operations will be underway, aiming to enhance not just road safety, but also the overall driving experience.

This pressing undertaking is essential as it coincides with another crew’s ongoing emergency work involving crucial waterline repairs located adjacent to the Washington Baum Bridge. Furthermore, parking lot enhancements for the Daniels Bridge are also on the agenda!

Timeline Breakdown

The first phase of this ambitious construction effort is scheduled to wrap up by **April 14, 2025**. Following this, the Fred Smith Company will shift focus to work on behalf of the town of Kill Devil Hills, enabling the county’s boring contractor to finalize the waterline project.

However, don’t fear—Fred Smith crews will be back in full force to tackle the remaining section of U.S. 64 from the Washington Baum Bridge right up to the Virginia Dare Bridge. The finish line for this remaining work is anticipated to be crossed by **May 9, 2025**! Keep in mind that weather conditions could influence these work schedules.

The Bigger Picture: Ongoing Infrastructure Enhancements

This road improvement initiative is just one part of a broader, ongoing project aimed at enhancing several areas along U.S. 64 and its surrounding roads and bridges within Dare County. The N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) awarded a generous $2.4 million contract to Fred Smith Company last September to lead these crucial developments.

New Bridge Construction Over Alligator River

Alligator River. With Capitol Hill playing a role in funding uncertainties, this project stands as a beacon of hope thanks to a hefty **$110 million** grant awarded under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. However, the total price tag for this ambitious bridge initiative hovers around **$450 million**.

Crafted from concrete, drivers will soon notice contractors driving piles for the new **3.2-mile bridge**, which aims to connect Tyrrell and Dare Counties. With the existing Lindsay C. Warren Bridge being over six decades old, congestion has become a common theme due to its swing-span design. The new bridge is designed to alleviate these delays, towering **65 feet** above the channel, complete with wider travel lanes, shoulder space, and enhanced guardrails.

Future Projections and Updates

Set to debut in the **fall of 2029**, the new bridge represents a significant upgrade for local infrastructure. Demolition of the old bridge is slated to kick off in **spring 2030**, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for motorists.

While there are ongoing concerns regarding the temporary pause of federal grants, the NCDOT remains cautiously optimistic about lifting these funding restrictions. Many infrastructure projects await approval, including replacements for aging bridges and wildlife crossings—essential for maintaining safety and connectivity.

Beware of Changing Traffic Patterns

utmost caution in the work zones. With improvements on the horizon, it’s a thrilling time for residents and visitors of Dare County. Buckle up as these changes unfold!