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Regional Boards => Southeast => Topic started by: wdcrft63 on February 25, 2023, 06:30:38 PM

Title: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on February 25, 2023, 06:30:38 PM
Folks, how about a thread for North Carolina's longest interstate? In the Triangle area we have two major widening/reconstruction projects, one from I-440 to NC 42 including the giant interchange with Toll 540 and Future I-42 and another from I-85 to US 15/501. Reconstruction of the interchange with I-440/US 1/US 64 is probably coming later in the decade. Farther west the I-77 interchange does have its own thread. Scattered across the state are bridge replacement, interchange improvement, and repaving projects. Posts on these projects are hard to keep up with in the main North Carolina thread. We have good coverage of construction on the state's new interstates I-42, I-87, I-587, I-73/74, and even I-685. I'd like to see similar concentrated attention to the state's backbone interstate.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wriddle082 on February 25, 2023, 07:03:34 PM
Yes!  I'd like to see updates regarding the Pigeon River bridge reconstruction going on between the Fines Creek and Maggie Valley exits out in the Smokies.  It seems like one direction of the other will have massive delays at any given time.  If you're going westbound on I-40 through Asheville you will see electronic signs estimating the travel times so you can decide whether to stay on 40 or divert to US 25/70.  But if you're coming up I-26 westbound from Hendersonville or point further southeast, you don't get those travel time signs.  Lately I've just been taking US 25/70 from Weaverville to Newport, TN anyway, and it's mostly a pleasant drive.  Only real slowdowns are in Hot Springs and Newport, but they don't seem nearly as serious as the slowdowns leading up to the construction zone lane drops.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: ARMOURERERIC on February 25, 2023, 08:43:15 PM
I'm a regular for exits 71 to I-77, can keep you up to date
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: architect77 on February 27, 2023, 05:11:40 PM
I-40 is being widened to 6 lanes from the Durham Freeway ? to the merge with I-85. It's a fairly long construction zone.

One or two interchanges are being rebuilt near RDU on I-40.

The 1990's rebuilding of I-40/I-85 duplex took an agonizing 8-9 years. It has held up well, and was one of my favorite stretches until I-85 was widened from Lexington to North Charlotte which is beautiful, wide, concrete-paved and more generously proportioned than the 85/40 duplex through Burlington.

The I-85/I-40 duplex between Greensboro and Durham now feels cramped and too crowned (pavement) comparated to I-85 North of Charlotte.

South of Greensboro, which was once the widest and best section of I-85, is now the crummiest, with deteriorating pavement and only 3 lanes wide. The many bypasses around Greensboro are not included in this though, and they are new and nice.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: sprjus4 on February 27, 2023, 05:39:40 PM
Quote from: architect77 on February 27, 2023, 05:11:40 PM
I-40 is being widened to 6 lanes from the Durham Freeway ? to the merge with I-85. It's a fairly long construction zone.
The project starts at US-15/US-501 near Chapel Hill where I-40 currently reduces from 6 lanes to 4 lanes. The project will widen that "gap"  between I-85 and US-15/US-501 to 6 lanes.

Quote
South of Greensboro, which was once the widest and best section of I-85, is now the crummiest, with deteriorating pavement and only 3 lanes wide. The many bypasses around Greensboro are not included in this though, and they are new and nice.
I drove this segment of I-85 recently driving between Greensboro and Charlotte, and the segment seemed to handle fine traffic wise. Traffic was easily flowing over 80 mph and was relatively smooth. A significant portion was recently resurfaced as well.

Due to recent widening between Lexington and Concord, I-85 drops from 8 lanes to 6 lanes heading north, but it's at a major interstate split with I-285 and traffic heading towards Winston-Salem, so it seems to handle well.

After dealing with notorious congestion on parts of I-64 between Williamsburg and Richmond, I-81 in general, I-95 south of DC, etc. in the past, this portion of I-85 was a perfect design the whole way between Charlotte and Greensboro. In addition, unlike a lot of North Carolina's rural interstates that are reluctant to be posted above 65 mph, especially in the central part of the state, the whole segment between Kannapolis and Greensboro is posted at 70 mph.

If you want to talk about deteriorating, NCDOT could show some love to the US-52 freeway north of Winston-Salem... a lot of the highway north of where I-74 will tie in is a bumpy ride in both lanes for a good 15-20 miles... along with the ancient bridges on that portion and decent traffic volumes, perhaps it's time to modernize that stretch.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Dirt Roads on February 27, 2023, 06:04:47 PM
Quote from: architect77 on February 27, 2023, 05:11:40 PM
I-40 is being widened to 6 lanes from the Durham Freeway ? to the merge with I-85. It's a fairly long construction zone.

Quote from: sprjus4 on February 27, 2023, 05:39:40 PM
The project starts at US-15/US-501 near Chapel Hill where I-40 currently reduces from 6 lanes to 4 lanes. The project will widen that "gap"  between I-85 and US-15/US-501 to 6 lanes.

Construction on I-40 really cranked up this month, starting at The Split just west of Hillsborough.  Last week, there were accidents in the "construction zone" that caused major delays on at least 4 different days, plus at least another one today.  The phrase "construction zone" is being used loosely, because all of the real construction with lane shifts is west of Exit 263 (New Hope Church Road), whereas many of the accidents have been east of Exit 263 (barrels placed but no tangible work).  By the way, everyone around here is enamored with the fluorescent green pop-up lighting towers used for nighttime work.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: nerdom on February 27, 2023, 06:29:57 PM
IMO. After the current constructions are wrapped up on I-40, the next focus, as far as 40 is concerned, should be between Statesville and Hickory. Ultimately, 40 should be 6+ lanes all the way to Canton. Monster undertaking. Western 40, 95 and 42. should be priorities going forward as loop roads are finishing, 85 is done minus small stretches near borders, and toll roads can clean up the rest of what's left in the metros. Something also needs to be done with 40/College Rd in Wilmington. Somehow, they need to get 40 to at least New Centre but Monkey Junction would be ideal. Just don't ask me how. lol.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: ARMOURERERIC on February 27, 2023, 09:36:26 PM
When I moved here in 2016, exits 104 and 105 were wrapping up.  About 3 years ago, exits 100, 103, 107, 116, 118 and 119 were imminent, but have been put on hold.  They badly need aux lanes between 105, 104 and 103.  The final design for exit 103 is even more out dated and inadequate  with the additional expansion on the WPCC campus.  I have seen no designs for exits 106, and frankly it should go.  4 lanes work west of exit 100 for now, but 6 lanes from 77 to exit 100 are needed and even 8 lanes from 121 to 132.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on February 27, 2023, 10:08:08 PM
Quote from: nerdom on February 27, 2023, 06:29:57 PM
IMO. After the current constructions are wrapped up on I-40, the next focus, as far as 40 is concerned, should be between Statesville and Hickory. Ultimately, 40 should be 6+ lanes all the way to Canton. Monster undertaking. Western 40, 95 and 42. should be priorities going forward as loop roads are finishing, 85 is done minus small stretches near borders, and toll roads can clean up the rest of what's left in the metros. Something also needs to be done with 40/College Rd in Wilmington. Somehow, they need to get 40 to at least New Centre but Monkey Junction would be ideal. Just don't ask me how. lol.
Statesville to Conover opened in 1960, so it is one of the very oldest sections of I-40 in NC. Some of us are old enough to remember the freeway's end at NC 16 in Conover and how welcome the Hickory bypass section was when it finally opened.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: cowboy_wilhelm on February 27, 2023, 10:34:29 PM
West of I-77, there are several feasibility studies and traffic forecasts out there for various projects along I-40. Many were submitted as part of P6.0, but haven't made it into the STIP yet. Funding is another issue (the submitted widening projects in the viewer added up to an estimated $1.6 billion, which are several years out-dated). The 2024-2033 STIP should be approved this spring....

The first section of the Hickory widening (I-5991A) is in the STIP, but has a post-year let date. Same goes for the stretch between Winston and Greensboro, which is split into three sections (I-5981 A, B & C).

I will also echo what was mentioned about some of these sections of I-40 being the oldest in the state. Well beyond due for upgrades....

Haywood County widening TF (https://connect.ncdot.gov/projects/planning/Traffic%20Forecasts/I-6054%20Haywood%20TF/I-6054A%20Haywood%202019%20TF.pdf)
Buncombe/Buncombe County widening TF (https://connect.ncdot.gov/projects/planning/Traffic%20Forecasts/I-6054%20Haywood%20TF/I-6054BC%20Buncombe%20Haywood%202019%20TF.pdf)
Catawba County widening TF (https://connect.ncdot.gov/projects/planning/Traffic%20Forecasts/I-5991%20Catawba%20TF/I-5991%20Catawba%202018%20TF.PDF)
FS-1512A widening from US-321 to I-77 (https://connect.ncdot.gov/projects/planning/FeasibilityStudiesDocuments/FS-1512A_Feasibility-Study_Report_2017.pdf)
Winston-Greensboro widening TF (https://connect.ncdot.gov/projects/planning/Traffic%20Forecasts/I-5980%20I-5981%20Forsyth%20Guilford%20TF/I-5980%20I-5981%20Guilford%20Forsyth%202019%20TF.pdf)

(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52716610829_bdae311ca4_c.jpg) (https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52716610829_d62b368059_k.jpg)




Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on February 28, 2023, 08:09:52 PM
Thanks for this. Looks like we have three priorities for widening: Clyde to Black Mountain, Morganton to I-77, and Winston-Salem to Greensboro.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: ARMOURERERIC on February 28, 2023, 08:46:41 PM
Before NCDots money woes, there had been scheduled public hearings on 6 laning I240 east to NC9.

Saw a good 2 to 3 dozen survey stakes all over exit 119 coming home tonite.  Not seeing anything on the NCDot letting pages.  Would have figured this interchange would be lower priority.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on March 07, 2023, 06:05:14 PM
NCDOT announces some ramp closures at the Clayton exit on I-40. The EB exit will be closed tonight. Over the coming weekend the WB exit and the WB entrance ramps will be closed. This is all in preparation for upcoming lane shifts in the construction project.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: ARMOURERERIC on March 07, 2023, 07:18:22 PM
At what point does NCDot need to recalculate based on 2050 instead of 2040
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: 74/171FAN on March 07, 2023, 08:40:58 PM
I did not know that there was an unnecessary I-40/I-240 concurrency.   :-D

Obviously that was just a typo, but I would think NCDOT would have higher priorities out there than a 6-lane I-40 heading east of Asheville. (such as maybe an improved section west to the US 74 split)
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on March 10, 2023, 06:22:34 PM
NCDOT announces overnight closures related to two bridge removal projects. The Airport Boulevard bridge over I-40 (Exit 284) will be removed over the next two weeks and work leading to replacement of the I-40 WB bridge over Old NC 86 near Hillsborough (Exit 261) will begin. https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on March 10, 2023, 08:43:09 PM
And on Tuesday NCDOT will hold a public meeting to present its plans to widen I-40 on the south side of Raleigh between Lake Wheeler Road and the I-440/US 1 interchange and to upgrade that interchange, adding two flyover ramps. The announcement has maps.
https://www.ncdot.gov/news/public-meetings/Pages/I-5701-I-5703-2023-03-02.aspx
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wriddle082 on March 10, 2023, 08:56:04 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on March 10, 2023, 06:22:34 PM
NCDOT announces overnight closures related to two bridge removal projects. The Airport Boulevard bridge over I-40 (Exit 284) will be removed over the next two weeks and work leading to replacement of the I-40 WB bridge over Old NC 86 near Hillsborough (Exit 261) will begin. https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/

It's too bad that the NC 86 bridge wasn't built long enough to accommodate extra lanes underneath.  That section of 40 dates back to the late 80's I believe.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: dfilpus on March 11, 2023, 11:27:36 AM
Quote from: wriddle082 on March 10, 2023, 08:56:04 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on March 10, 2023, 06:22:34 PM
NCDOT announces overnight closures related to two bridge removal projects. The Airport Boulevard bridge over I-40 (Exit 284) will be removed over the next two weeks and work leading to replacement of the I-40 WB bridge over Old NC 86 near Hillsborough (Exit 261) will begin. https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/

It's too bad that the NC 86 bridge wasn't built long enough to accommodate extra lanes underneath.  That section of 40 dates back to the late 80's I believe.

The bridge in the post above is the OLD NC 86 bridge pair, which carriers 1-40 over Old NC 86. The current bridge is not wide enough to accommodate the widened I-40. The NC 86 interchange is being rebuilt, but the bridge there is long enough. The west bound exit ramps are being reconfigured.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wriddle082 on March 11, 2023, 11:53:21 AM
^ Ok I didn't realize that Exit 261, which is marked as just "Hillsborough"  IIRC, is actually for Old NC 86.  And a few years ago, I did some cell site work in that area!
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Dirt Roads on March 11, 2023, 12:08:53 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on March 10, 2023, 06:22:34 PM
NCDOT announces overnight closures related to two bridge removal projects. The Airport Boulevard bridge over I-40 (Exit 284) will be removed over the next two weeks and work leading to replacement of the I-40 WB bridge over Old NC 86 near Hillsborough (Exit 261) will begin. https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/

Quote from: wriddle082 on March 10, 2023, 08:56:04 PM
It's too bad that the NC 86 bridge wasn't built long enough to accommodate extra lanes underneath.  That section of 40 dates back to the late 80's I believe.

Quote from: dfilpus on March 11, 2023, 11:27:36 AM
The bridge in the post above is the OLD NC 86 bridge pair, which carriers 1-40 over Old NC 86. The current bridge is not wide enough to accommodate the widened I-40. The NC 86 interchange is being rebuilt, but the bridge there is long enough. The west bound exit ramps are being reconfigured.

But indeed, it looks like the I-40 widening won't fit underneath the existing overpass for NC-86 (Airport Road/Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd).  The NC-86 overpass is on a skew, such that the use of standard length steel stringers over the freeway necessitated an extra trestle-column support next to the abutments.  There's plenty of room for the I-40 widening beneath New Hope Church Road (formerly New Hope Trace), the next exit up, which has slopebanks on either side.

I haven't seen any discussion about how/when the NC-86 bridge replacement will occur.  I'm surprised that it wasn't the first phase of the project, since it will be the longest duration of any major task on the entire project.  The whole project phasing (starting at Hillsborough and working [southward] is curious to me, since the major congestion (almost daily now, including weekends) is at Orange/Durham border.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Strider on March 11, 2023, 12:57:39 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on March 10, 2023, 08:43:09 PM
And on Tuesday NCDOT will hold a public meeting to present its plans to widen I-40 on the south side of Raleigh between Lake Wheeler Road and the I-440/US 1 interchange and to upgrade that interchange, adding two flyover ramps. The announcement has maps.
https://www.ncdot.gov/news/public-meetings/Pages/I-5701-I-5703-2023-03-02.aspx


It is kinda messed up that they're still having traffic take a loop ramp to go east on I-440. Should have at least a flyover from I-40 East to I-440 East.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: elsmere241 on March 11, 2023, 01:13:29 PM
With most of the traffic taking Wade Avenue to get to 440, it probably isn't that important.  A flyover from Wade eastbound to 440 eastbound might be useful though.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wriddle082 on March 11, 2023, 03:43:19 PM
Quote from: elsmere241 on March 11, 2023, 01:13:29 PM
With most of the traffic taking Wade Avenue to get to 440, it probably isn't that important.  A flyover from Wade eastbound to 440 eastbound might be useful though.

Also a flyover from I-40 W to US 1 S/US 64 W.  And make it wide, like at least two lanes, or even three.  And do it CA-style and make it all out of concrete box beam (which I think is the correct term, or like most of the bridges in the 85/285 Tom Moreland Interchange).  This needs to not only function well, but IMO look good too.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on March 11, 2023, 06:16:55 PM
Quote from: wriddle082 on March 11, 2023, 03:43:19 PM
Quote from: elsmere241 on March 11, 2023, 01:13:29 PM
With most of the traffic taking Wade Avenue to get to 440, it probably isn't that important.  A flyover from Wade eastbound to 440 eastbound might be useful though.

Also a flyover from I-40 W to US 1 S/US 64 W.  And make it wide, like at least two lanes, or even three.  And do it CA-style and make it all out of concrete box beam (which I think is the correct term, or like most of the bridges in the 85/285 Tom Moreland Interchange).  This needs to not only function well, but IMO look good too.
https://www.ncdot.gov/projects/40-440-us-1-interchange/Documents/I-40-I-440-interchange-preferred-alernative-2-map.pdf
The map is confusing because it doesn't show removal of loop ramp B, but it does show a two lane flyover from I-40 W to US 1 S/US 64 W.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: jdunlop on March 12, 2023, 03:51:44 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on March 11, 2023, 06:16:55 PM
Quote from: wriddle082 on March 11, 2023, 03:43:19 PM
Quote from: elsmere241 on March 11, 2023, 01:13:29 PM
With most of the traffic taking Wade Avenue to get to 440, it probably isn't that important.  A flyover from Wade eastbound to 440 eastbound might be useful though.

Also a flyover from I-40 W to US 1 S/US 64 W.  And make it wide, like at least two lanes, or even three.  And do it CA-style and make it all out of concrete box beam (which I think is the correct term, or like most of the bridges in the 85/285 Tom Moreland Interchange).  This needs to not only function well, but IMO look good too.
https://www.ncdot.gov/projects/40-440-us-1-interchange/Documents/I-40-I-440-interchange-preferred-alernative-2-map.pdf
The map is confusing because it doesn't show removal of loop ramp B, but it does show a two lane flyover from I-40 W to US 1 S/US 64 W.

Ramp B will be used to get from I-40WB to Walnut Street/Crossroads Mall.  It will remain in place.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: froggie on March 12, 2023, 07:52:31 PM
I found it noteworthy that the existing ramp from Crossroads to NB 1 will be removed, as well as the existing NB on-ramp from Walnut St.  Both to be replaced by a new ramp starting from a relocated Piney Plains/Dillard intersection.

Jim, any thoughts on why Ramp B will still be accessed from a C/D road coming off the WB ramps to SB 1 and 440?  I would have thought it'd be simpler and less confusing to travelers to have that be a direct ramp off the WB 40 mainline, instead of combined with the 1/440 ramps.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: jdunlop on March 13, 2023, 01:13:08 PM
Quote from: froggie on March 12, 2023, 07:52:31 PM
I found it noteworthy that the existing ramp from Crossroads to NB 1 will be removed, as well as the existing NB on-ramp from Walnut St.  Both to be replaced by a new ramp starting from a relocated Piney Plains/Dillard intersection.

Jim, any thoughts on why Ramp B will still be accessed from a C/D road coming off the WB ramps to SB 1 and 440?  I would have thought it'd be simpler and less confusing to travelers to have that be a direct ramp off the WB 40 mainline, instead of combined with the 1/440 ramps.

The infrastructure is already there, and having one exit to US 1 makes it better for I-40. It's a "single decision point"  on the main line, with a secondary decision point on the off-ramp, and that is usually better for drivers' safety.

I'm not thrilled by the Piney Plains exit plan, but realize that there aren't many options (especially ones that don't take many buildings like Lowe's.).  I was partially responsible for the SB "elongated loop"  configurations back in the "˜90s, and I know there will be a lot of pushback, especially from Crossroads.  But the weaves are bad now, this plan will make it much better NB.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: sprjus4 on March 13, 2023, 01:29:06 PM
Quote from: jdunlop on March 13, 2023, 01:13:08 PM
I'm not thrilled by the Piney Plains exit plan, but realize that there aren't many options (especially ones that don't take many buildings like Lowe's.).  I was partially responsible for the SB "elongated loop"  configurations back in the "˜90s, and I know there will be a lot of pushback, especially from Crossroads.  But the weaves are bad now, this plan will make it much better NB.
Braided ramps? That would eliminate the weaving movements entirely and would not require traffic to travel an additional mile just to get on the freeway.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: jdunlop on March 13, 2023, 03:25:56 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on March 13, 2023, 01:29:06 PM
Quote from: jdunlop on March 13, 2023, 01:13:08 PM
I'm not thrilled by the Piney Plains exit plan, but realize that there aren't many options (especially ones that don't take many buildings like Lowe's.).  I was partially responsible for the SB "elongated loop"  configurations back in the "˜90s, and I know there will be a lot of pushback, especially from Crossroads.  But the weaves are bad now, this plan will make it much better NB.
Braided ramps? That would eliminate the weaving movements entirely and would not require traffic to travel an additional mile just to get on the freeway.
NOt sure how that could be built without needing to replace the Walnut St. bridge over US 1. Even then, not sure it'd work.  They're able to braid the ramps SB so that EB40 to SB1 can go over the WB40 to SB1 ramp with retaining walls (and you have grade differences that help) but NB I just don't see it.  I will ask tomorrow if I'm able to attend, but I remember mentioning that to the traffic analyst working  on the project a while back, and his answer was there wasn't enough room.

The needs of the system interchange (I-40/US 1) take precedence over the service interchange (Walnut/Crossroads.)  We allow service interchanges that close way too often, and we have problems with weaving at most of them.  We should close the service interchanges, but politics comes in way too often.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: sprjus4 on March 13, 2023, 03:55:31 PM
At the very least, why not braid the proposed new on-ramp with the existing off-ramp? That way, the eastbound off ramp could at least be retained. That would eliminate traffic needing exit the new ramp, travel down Dillard Dr heading due east, just to then turn back north, if they are ultimately bound to Walnut St to the west.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: jdunlop on March 13, 2023, 06:07:03 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on March 13, 2023, 03:55:31 PM
At the very least, why not braid the proposed new on-ramp with the existing off-ramp? That way, the eastbound off ramp could at least be retained. That would eliminate traffic needing exit the new ramp, travel down Dillard Dr heading due east, just to then turn back north, if they are ultimately bound to Walnut St to the west.

That would be a significant cost increase for a minor traffic savings.  Those braided ramps are not cheap, from a construction and right-of-way standpoint.

I'd like to see the traffic forecast to see what volume of traffic heads west on Walnut.  At some point, drivers heading that way would take the Cary Town Blvd exit on 40 rather than drive up/down Walnut.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: LM117 on March 13, 2023, 06:17:14 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on March 10, 2023, 08:43:09 PM
And on Tuesday NCDOT will hold a public meeting to present its plans to widen I-40 on the south side of Raleigh between Lake Wheeler Road and the I-440/US 1 interchange and to upgrade that interchange, adding two flyover ramps. The announcement has maps.
https://www.ncdot.gov/news/public-meetings/Pages/I-5701-I-5703-2023-03-02.aspx

There will be a 2-week public comment period after the meeting.

https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-03-13-i-40-440-widening-crossroads-meeting.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-03-13-i-40-440-widening-crossroads-meeting.aspx)
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Strider on March 13, 2023, 07:32:09 PM
Quote from: elsmere241 on March 11, 2023, 01:13:29 PM
With most of the traffic taking Wade Avenue to get to 440, it probably isn't that important.  A flyover from Wade eastbound to 440 eastbound might be useful though.

I have seen plenty of traffic using I-440 East loop ramp from I-40 East every time I drive down to Raleigh, not just Wade Ave.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: sprjus4 on March 14, 2023, 12:46:36 AM
^ Likely just local traffic from surrounding interchanges on I-40 to the west, but east of Wade Ave.

It's probably not heavy enough to warrant a flyover. Wade Ave indeed would handle most of the through traffic / heavy volumes.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: webny99 on March 15, 2023, 11:14:33 AM
I'm changing the topic, but does NC have any plans to widen I-40 down to I-95? Once the current project between Garner and NC 42 is complete, there will only be about 12 miles left to I-40. Not sure how much traffic exits at NC 42, but if I am correct that it will drop from 8 lanes down to 4 south of there, it seems likely to create a new bottleneck heading south/east.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: bob7374 on March 15, 2023, 11:50:02 AM
Quote from: webny99 on March 15, 2023, 11:14:33 AM
I'm changing the topic, but does NC have any plans to widen I-40 down to I-95? Once the current project between Garner and NC 42 is complete, there will only be about 12 miles left to I-40. Not sure how much traffic exits at NC 42, but if I am correct that it will drop from 8 lanes down to 4 south of there, it seems likely to create a new bottleneck heading south/east.
Yes according to the project website, 2 lanes are to be added to each direction from Exit 301 to MM 314. The final design maps, published in January 2022 (though for some reason they do not include the new NC 540 construction), are available at: https://www.ncdot.gov/projects/i40-nc42/Pages/final-design-maps.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/projects/i40-nc42/Pages/final-design-maps.aspx)
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: jdunlop on March 15, 2023, 11:58:27 AM
Quote from: webny99 on March 15, 2023, 11:14:33 AM
I'm changing the topic, but does NC have any plans to widen I-40 down to I-95? Once the current project between Garner and NC 42 is complete, there will only be about 12 miles left to I-40. Not sure how much traffic exits at NC 42, but if I am correct that it will drop from 8 lanes down to 4 south of there, it seems likely to create a new bottleneck heading south/east.

IIRC there's a feasibility study (unfunded) to widen from MM 312 to 317 (NC 210) but nothing east of there to I-95.  The volume really doesn't call for more than a four-lane cross-section.  A project to widen 210 is on the books as well (funded, unless things have changed in the last year.)
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: webny99 on March 15, 2023, 12:37:10 PM
Quote from: bob7374 on March 15, 2023, 11:50:02 AM
Yes according to the project website, 2 lanes are to be added to each direction from Exit 301 to MM 314. The final design maps, published in January 2022 (though for some reason they do not include the new NC 540 construction), are available at: https://www.ncdot.gov/projects/i40-nc42/Pages/final-design-maps.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/projects/i40-nc42/Pages/final-design-maps.aspx)

Interesting. I was not aware that there will be a new interchange added at Cleveland Rd as part of this project too, that's great to see.


Quote from: jdunlop on March 15, 2023, 11:58:27 AM
IIRC there's a feasibility study (unfunded) to widen from MM 312 to 317 (NC 210) but nothing east of there to I-40.  The volume really doesn't call for more than a four-lane cross-section.  A project to widen 210 is on the books as well (funded, unless things have changed in the last year.)

I would support extending 6-lanes down to NC 210, only because when you have two lanes ending at the same time (plus traffic entering at that interchange) that is almost a guaranteed bottleneck even if the volumes don't otherwise warrant a widening. NC seems to love widening from 4 lanes to 8 lanes, but that does tend to create problems at the transition point.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: sprjus4 on March 15, 2023, 01:04:58 PM
^ I see the biggest problem with 4 to 8 lanes, at the moment, being I-95 at Fayetteville in either direction. The highway is currently being widened to 8 lanes both north and south of the city, but will remain at 4 lanes on the bypass.

The idea is enough traffic will exit, but given its I-95, there is still a minimum of 6 lanes needed around Fayetteville. There will likely be congestion at these transition points - and the same with 8 to 4 lane drop at I-74 south of Lumberton, and to a lesser extent I-40 north of Fayetteville (because there, traffic will actually somewhat split - but still more on I-95).
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: sprjus4 on March 15, 2023, 01:09:09 PM
Quote from: jdunlop on March 15, 2023, 11:58:27 AM
Quote from: webny99 on March 15, 2023, 11:14:33 AM
I'm changing the topic, but does NC have any plans to widen I-40 down to I-95? Once the current project between Garner and NC 42 is complete, there will only be about 12 miles left to I-40. Not sure how much traffic exits at NC 42, but if I am correct that it will drop from 8 lanes down to 4 south of there, it seems likely to create a new bottleneck heading south/east.

IIRC there's a feasibility study (unfunded) to widen from MM 312 to 317 (NC 210) but nothing east of there to I-95.  The volume really doesn't call for more than a four-lane cross-section.  A project to widen 210 is on the books as well (funded, unless things have changed in the last year.)
Between NC-42 and NC-210, I-40 carries around 50,000 AADT. The volumes do remain at around 45,000 AADT down to I-95, only dropping down to 22,000 AADT east/south of I-95.

45,000 AADT is certainly in the ballpark for 6 lane widening in the future, especially in a 15-20 year timeframe. I-95 carries 40,000-45,000 AADT north of I-40, though I'd argue given the long distance / peak season factor of that particular road, at minimum 6 lane widening is still more warranted there than I-40.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: webny99 on March 16, 2023, 10:32:16 AM
Quote from: sprjus4 on March 15, 2023, 01:04:58 PM
^ I see the biggest problem with 4 to 8 lanes, at the moment, being I-95 at Fayetteville in either direction. The highway is currently being widened to 8 lanes both north and south of the city, but will remain at 4 lanes on the bypass.

The idea is enough traffic will exit, but given its I-95, there is still a minimum of 6 lanes needed around Fayetteville. There will likely be congestion at these transition points - and the same with 8 to 4 lane drop at I-74 south of Lumberton, and to a lesser extent I-40 north of Fayetteville (because there, traffic will actually somewhat split - but still more on I-95).

I don't see it being too much of an issue on the north side as there is a significant drop-off of about 25k AADT at I-40, but where will the 8 lanes start/end south of Fayetteville? I don't see a logical transition point on either end, especially until I-295 is complete (and I would think most traffic to downtown Fayetteville will still use NC 87, even when I-295 is complete).
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: sprjus4 on March 16, 2023, 03:43:39 PM
I believe the lanes will drop from 8 to 4 at both junctions with US-301 ("inside"  I-295).

I-295 should be fully complete by the time both widening projects are complete.

The issues northbound at I-40 will probably be less, but during peak weekends I anticipate it will choke up a little. I-95 needs a sustained 6 lanes through SC-NC-VA during peak times, so dropping from 8 to 4 will cause some slowdowns I'm sure.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Dirt Roads on March 16, 2023, 09:45:49 PM
Update on the I-40 widening in Orange County.  Things are now progressing quickly on the [south] end near Chapel Hill.  The [southbound] lanes now have all been shifted, have the Jersey barriers installed and most of the old left shoulder have been removed.  The [northbound] lanes have also been shifted, except for a short section under the NC-86 overpass (Exit 266).  But there is still no Jersey barrier from the Durham County line to about Exit 263.  Actual grading for the new lanes is on both sides [north] of Exit 261.

Talking about Exit 266, the old left shoulder has been removed for the [southbound] lanes beneath the NC-86 overpass so it looks like NCDOT is going to squeeze the additional lanes beneath the existing structure.  Both of the steel stringer sections appear to be of identical length, so I am assuming that the extra [northbound] lane will also fit.  But something triggered the need to wait on shifting the lanes there.  Stay tuned.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: LM117 on April 18, 2023, 04:55:58 PM
^ Speaking of the I-40 widening project in Orange County, I-40 East traffic will be detoured onto I-85 North and I-885 South this weekend.

https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-18-04-I-40-east-weekend-closure.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-18-04-I-40-east-weekend-closure.aspx)
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Dirt Roads on April 18, 2023, 09:12:44 PM
Quote from: LM117 on April 18, 2023, 04:55:58 PM
Speaking of the I-40 widening project in Orange County, I-40 East traffic will be detoured onto I-85 North and I-885 South this weekend.

https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-18-04-I-40-east-weekend-closure.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-18-04-I-40-east-weekend-closure.aspx)

I wonder if that (I-85 -to- I-885) is a [slight] mistake in the press release.  I was under the impression that the official "Alternate I-40" route was utilizing the Durham Freeway (NC-147, which eventually becomes the southern section of I-885).  There are so many different "Alternate I-40" routes and signs posted right now that I can't remember them all.  One set is posted for the West Durham Bypass (US-15/501), which certainly uses the northern end of the Durham Freeway.

I actually like using the entire I-885 as a bypass, but I still prefer the Durham Freeway just to get a glimpse of the crowd at Durham Bulls games this time of year.  I've never seen Durham Bulls traffic cause any problems for the Durham Freeway on game days (and have been bold enough to arrive just a few minutes before game time for sellouts).
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: sprjus4 on April 19, 2023, 12:03:49 AM
I think they are wanting to promote the new I-885 / East End Connector over the Durham Freeway, especially given "Greensboro"  is signed on it as opposed to the more direct Durham Freeway portion near Downtown.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/vaEsfL2HUGT6u6TB9?g_st=ic

The I-885 / East End Connector also has more lanes and a 65 mph speed limit, and is being promoted as the bypass to NC-147.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: LM117 on April 21, 2023, 02:42:50 PM
Quote from: LM117 on April 18, 2023, 04:55:58 PM
^ Speaking of the I-40 widening project in Orange County, I-40 East traffic will be detoured onto I-85 North and I-885 South this weekend.

https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-18-04-I-40-east-weekend-closure.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-18-04-I-40-east-weekend-closure.aspx)

https://twitter.com/NCDOT_Triad/status/1648772150629728261 (https://twitter.com/NCDOT_Triad/status/1648772150629728261)
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: ARMOURERERIC on April 23, 2023, 05:15:38 PM
The bridge for Causby Rd over 40 at exit 98 is closing tonight for 6 months of rehab.  The bridge with be raised, but the work will keep the existing piers, thus no accommodation for future widening.  This section of 40 does not really need to go 6lanes yet.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: OracleUsr on April 23, 2023, 09:39:48 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on February 27, 2023, 10:08:08 PM
Quote from: nerdom on February 27, 2023, 06:29:57 PM
IMO. After the current constructions are wrapped up on I-40, the next focus, as far as 40 is concerned, should be between Statesville and Hickory. Ultimately, 40 should be 6+ lanes all the way to Canton. Monster undertaking. Western 40, 95 and 42. should be priorities going forward as loop roads are finishing, 85 is done minus small stretches near borders, and toll roads can clean up the rest of what's left in the metros. Something also needs to be done with 40/College Rd in Wilmington. Somehow, they need to get 40 to at least New Centre but Monkey Junction would be ideal. Just don't ask me how. lol.
Statesville to Conover opened in 1960, so it is one of the very oldest sections of I-40 in NC. Some of us are old enough to remember the freeway's end at NC 16 in Conover and how welcome the Hickory bypass section was when it finally opened.

I remember that.  We traveled through there frequently, going from Greensboro to Knoxville.  It was December 1976 when I think was the last time we had to go through Conover.

I also remember, speaking of broken segments, the I-40 segment around Black Mountain/Swannanoa opening up.  Today, having to go US 70 through Black Mountain would be a nightmare.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: ARMOURERERIC on April 23, 2023, 10:59:39 PM
I am aware of projects for the rebuild of Exit 118 and an exit near Claremont, along with a Catawba River Bridge replacement still slowly moving up the list.  The replaced bridges at the 2 interchanges  are being built for 6 lanes on 40, but these projects seem more driven by the bridge being shot than capacity deficiencies.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Strider on April 24, 2023, 01:39:21 AM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on April 23, 2023, 10:59:39 PM
I am aware of projects for the rebuild of Exit 118 and an exit near Claremont, along with a Catawba River Bridge replacement still slowly moving up the list.  The replaced bridges at the 2 interchanges  are being built for 6 lanes on 40, but these projects seem more driven by the bridge being shot than capacity deficiencies.


A new exit on I-40 near Claremont?
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: ARMOURERERIC on April 24, 2023, 03:44:54 PM
Quote from: Strider on April 24, 2023, 01:39:21 AM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on April 23, 2023, 10:59:39 PM
I am aware of projects for the rebuild of Exit 118 and an exit near Claremont, along with a Catawba River Bridge replacement still slowly moving up the list.  The replaced bridges at the 2 interchanges  are being built for 6 lanes on 40, but these projects seem more driven by the bridge being shot than capacity deficiencies.


A new exit on I-40 near Claremont?

No, rebuild of existing, I wanted to say Rock Barn Rd, but could not find for sure
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Strider on April 25, 2023, 01:42:03 AM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on April 24, 2023, 03:44:54 PM
Quote from: Strider on April 24, 2023, 01:39:21 AM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on April 23, 2023, 10:59:39 PM
I am aware of projects for the rebuild of Exit 118 and an exit near Claremont, along with a Catawba River Bridge replacement still slowly moving up the list.  The replaced bridges at the 2 interchanges  are being built for 6 lanes on 40, but these projects seem more driven by the bridge being shot than capacity deficiencies.


A new exit on I-40 near Claremont?

No, rebuild of existing, I wanted to say Rock Barn Rd, but could not find for sure

You're correct. It is the bridge replacement for Rock Barn Rd. (Exit 133) over I-40. Found the link below.
https://ncdot.publicinput.com/W7066
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: LM117 on April 26, 2023, 10:16:05 AM
Good news regarding the I-40 widening project between southeast Raleigh and Clayton. All new lanes between I-440 and US-70 (Clayton Bypass) are now open.

https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-04-26-i-40-new-lanes-garner-clayton-open.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-04-26-i-40-new-lanes-garner-clayton-open.aspx)
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: architect77 on May 04, 2023, 09:51:58 PM
Quote from: LM117 on April 26, 2023, 10:16:05 AM
Good news regarding the I-40 widening project between southeast Raleigh and Clayton. All new lanes between I-440 and US-70 (Clayton Bypass) are now open.

https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-04-26-i-40-new-lanes-garner-clayton-open.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-04-26-i-40-new-lanes-garner-clayton-open.aspx)

I drove this last night. Overall nice and wide. One overhead gantry in each direction has crooked mounted signs which I'm going to email them about.

Otherwise, they have installed reflectors along the lane lines, however the roadway Eastbound leaving Raleigh just scratched off the temporary lane lines during construction. It looks horrible. Will they leave it like this or will a final asphalt layer be added (which will require the reflectors to be removed and reinstalled0?
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on May 19, 2023, 07:28:08 PM
NCDOT has opened all lanes of I-40 through the Pigeon River Gorge, after a months-long period of one lane in each direction supporting bridge replacements. Best news: this work is ahead of schedule.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on May 19, 2023, 07:29:11 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on May 19, 2023, 07:28:08 PM
NCDOT has opened all lanes of I-40 through the Pigeon River Gorge, after a months-long period of one lane in each direction supporting bridge replacements. Best news: this work is ahead of schedule.
https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-05-19-all-lanes-open-i-40-pigeon-river-gorge.aspx
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: OracleUsr on May 19, 2023, 09:43:21 PM
Quote from: Strider on April 25, 2023, 01:42:03 AM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on April 24, 2023, 03:44:54 PM
Quote from: Strider on April 24, 2023, 01:39:21 AM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on April 23, 2023, 10:59:39 PM
I am aware of projects for the rebuild of Exit 118 and an exit near Claremont, along with a Catawba River Bridge replacement still slowly moving up the list.  The replaced bridges at the 2 interchanges  are being built for 6 lanes on 40, but these projects seem more driven by the bridge being shot than capacity deficiencies.


A new exit on I-40 near Claremont?

No, rebuild of existing, I wanted to say Rock Barn Rd, but could not find for sure

You're correct. It is the bridge replacement for Rock Barn Rd. (Exit 133) over I-40. Found the link below.
https://ncdot.publicinput.com/W7066


Yeah, until 1977 I-40 used to end there.  My parents and I used to ride to Knoxville and had to work our way through Conover.  That's why for a very long time, Hickory was used as a control city for I-40 West from I-77 in Statesville, where it's now Asheville.

Interesting add note.  Similar to I-40's fate, I-77 used to end in Elkin at what I believe was exit 83, so I-40's signage for I-77 used Elkin instead of Wytheville which is what it is now.

That old bridge on Rock Barn sure did need a tune up.  I think it's been the same design since 1976.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: ARMOURERERIC on May 20, 2023, 08:03:05 PM
Looking at old maps, I never could understand why the original section of 40 from Conover to Statesville was not extended initially west to the old US 70, Highland Avenue path.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on May 20, 2023, 10:17:48 PM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on May 20, 2023, 08:03:05 PM
Looking at old maps, I never could understand why the original section of 40 from Conover to Statesville was not extended initially west to the old US 70, Highland Avenue path.
$$$. The road was built in the late 1950s when North Carolina didn't have anything like the resources it has now.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wriddle082 on May 21, 2023, 08:50:57 AM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on May 19, 2023, 07:29:11 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on May 19, 2023, 07:28:08 PM
NCDOT has opened all lanes of I-40 through the Pigeon River Gorge, after a months-long period of one lane in each direction supporting bridge replacements. Best news: this work is ahead of schedule.
https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-05-19-all-lanes-open-i-40-pigeon-river-gorge.aspx

Thank goodness!  The bridge desperately needed rebuilding, but this was an inconvenience, depending on the time of day.  They did post travel time portable VMS's along westbound 40 in and east of Asheville, but they didn't help when you were approaching from I-26.  I rediscovered the US 25/70 corridor during this time, which certainly wasn't the worst detour in the world.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: fillup420 on May 21, 2023, 08:56:31 AM
Quote from: wriddle082 on May 21, 2023, 08:50:57 AM
I rediscovered the US 25/70 corridor during this time, which certainly wasn't the worst detour in the world.

I've used the US 25/70 corridor as a detour multiple times. It is a godsend, and it seems that most drivers aren't aware of its effectiveness as a detour for I-40 through the gorge. GPS will show looong backups on 40, but 25/70 will still be a calm and easy drive.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: architect77 on May 21, 2023, 11:56:02 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on May 20, 2023, 10:17:48 PM
Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on May 20, 2023, 08:03:05 PM
Looking at old maps, I never could understand why the original section of 40 from Conover to Statesville was not extended initially west to the old US 70, Highland Avenue path.
$$$. The road was built in the late 1950s when North Carolina didn't have anything like the resources it has now.

But, at the dawn of the automobile era, North Carolina, with the new moniker "The Good Roads State", had the most miles of paved road of any state.

The interstates were built in small sections in all states. I-40 East ended at Raleigh's beltline when I was in college in 1990.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: sprjus4 on May 22, 2023, 01:09:55 AM
I-40 east of Greensboro was not apart of the original interstate system, it was added in 1968 and not even finalized alignment south of Raleigh (either to Morehead City or Wilmington) until the late 70s / early 80s.

Construction on Raleigh to Wilmington was completed in the late 80s / early 90s.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: SectorZ on May 22, 2023, 07:32:47 AM
Quote from: sprjus4 on May 22, 2023, 01:09:55 AM
I-40 east of Greensboro was not apart of the original interstate system, it was added in 1968 and not even finalized alignment south of Raleigh (either to Morehead City or Wilmington) until the late 70s / early 80s.

Construction on Raleigh to Wilmington was completed in the late 80s / early 90s.

IIRC, wasn't part of the yet-to-be-opened 40 used in the movie 1986 Maximum Overdrive?
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on June 02, 2023, 05:44:54 PM
NCDOT has awarded a contract for rehabilitation of I-40 between the I-26 and US 25 interchanges south of Asheville. This section includes the bridges over the French Broad River. Lane closures are to be "mostly"  at night.
https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-06-02-comprehensive-contract-i-40-buncombe.aspx
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wriddle082 on June 03, 2023, 04:50:01 AM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on June 02, 2023, 05:44:54 PM
NCDOT has awarded a contract for rehabilitation of I-40 between the I-26 and US 25 interchanges south of Asheville. This section includes the bridges over the French Broad River. Lane closures are to be "mostly"  at night.
https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-06-02-comprehensive-contract-i-40-buncombe.aspx

This is the stretch that passes through Biltmore Estate, and if you're driving around in the estate, most of the I-40 overhead bridges have stone masonry facades (I think two out of three bridges that pass over access roads).  Hopefully that is not changed aside from needed maintenance, unless they make the third bridge look similar.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: amroad17 on June 03, 2023, 06:34:08 AM
Quote from: SectorZ on May 22, 2023, 07:32:47 AM
Quote from: sprjus4 on May 22, 2023, 01:09:55 AM
I-40 east of Greensboro was not apart of the original interstate system, it was added in 1968 and not even finalized alignment south of Raleigh (either to Morehead City or Wilmington) until the late 70s / early 80s.

Construction on Raleigh to Wilmington was completed in the late 80s / early 90s.

IIRC, wasn't part of the yet-to-be-opened 40 used in the movie 1986 Maximum Overdrive?
Yes it was.  I believe it may have been the NC 210 interchange near Rocky Point for that one scene in the movie.  It looks similar to what I saw in the movie. https://goo.gl/maps/m5HfZSrKVAVhaSxK7

I also believe that a real Dixie Boy truck stop was used in the movie before it got blown up.

#Whomadewho?  #79degrees9:49amfuckyou  #Honey,sugarbunsthismachinejustcalledmeanasshole!
#Curtisareyoudead?
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on June 08, 2023, 09:07:05 AM
NCDOT surprises Chapel Hill with a plan to replace I-40's interchange with US 15/501 with a DDI, replacing a totally inadequate standard diamond. The plan includes building a new road parallel to 15/501 west of the DDI, connecting Eastowne Drive on the south to the New Hope Commons commercial area on the north. I-40 EB exit and WB entrance ramps would connect to this new road as well as 15/501.

Initial response in Chapel Hill is strongly negative, not to the DDI (almost anything that would help relieve traffic at this overburdened interchange would be welcome) but to the new road, which would interfere with existing plans to expand the UNC Health complex at Eastowne, increase traffic in that area, and cut through a forest area that serves as a natural buffer between I-40 traffic and Chapel Hill. There is particular concern/anger that NCDOT drew this plan with no consultation with town planners and is seeking quick approval from the town.
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/counties/orange-county/article276194786.html
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Strider on June 08, 2023, 04:21:48 PM
I like the DDI for I-40/US 15-501 interchange, but why do the new road have to be added? It sounds very unnecessary, but of course this is NCDOT. smh.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on June 08, 2023, 07:43:47 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on June 08, 2023, 09:07:05 AM
NCDOT surprises Chapel Hill with a plan to replace I-40's interchange with US 15/501 with a DDI, replacing a totally inadequate standard diamond. The plan includes building a new road parallel to 15/501 west of the DDI, connecting Eastowne Drive on the south to the New Hope Commons commercial area on the north. I-40 EB exit and WB entrance ramps would connect to this new road as well as 15/501.

Initial response in Chapel Hill is strongly negative, not to the DDI (almost anything that would help relieve traffic at this overburdened interchange would be welcome) but to the new road, which would interfere with existing plans to expand the UNC Health complex at Eastowne, increase traffic in that area, and cut through a forest area that serves as a natural buffer between I-40 traffic and Chapel Hill. There is particular concern/anger that NCDOT drew this plan with no consultation with town planners and is seeking quick approval from the town.
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/counties/orange-county/article276194786.html
(https://www.newsobserver.com/latest-news/wm1r88/picture276198926/alternates/LANDSCAPE_1140/Eastowne%20Road%20connector%20plan.jpg)
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Roadsguy on June 08, 2023, 10:05:40 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on June 08, 2023, 09:07:05 AM
NCDOT surprises Chapel Hill with a plan to replace I-40's interchange with US 15/501 with a DDI, replacing a totally inadequate standard diamond. The plan includes building a new road parallel to 15/501 west of the DDI, connecting Eastowne Drive on the south to the New Hope Commons commercial area on the north. I-40 EB exit and WB entrance ramps would connect to this new road as well as 15/501.

Initial response in Chapel Hill is strongly negative, not to the DDI (almost anything that would help relieve traffic at this overburdened interchange would be welcome) but to the new road, which would interfere with existing plans to expand the UNC Health complex at Eastowne, increase traffic in that area, and cut through a forest area that serves as a natural buffer between I-40 traffic and Chapel Hill. There is particular concern/anger that NCDOT drew this plan with no consultation with town planners and is seeking quick approval from the town.
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/counties/orange-county/article276194786.html

I thought they had long-range plans here for a freeway-to-freeway interchange, and to upgrade 15/501 to the north up to the current freeway section?
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on June 09, 2023, 06:30:51 PM
Quote from: Roadsguy on June 08, 2023, 10:05:40 PM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on June 08, 2023, 09:07:05 AM
NCDOT surprises Chapel Hill with a plan to replace I-40's interchange with US 15/501 with a DDI, replacing a totally inadequate standard diamond. The plan includes building a new road parallel to 15/501 west of the DDI, connecting Eastowne Drive on the south to the New Hope Commons commercial area on the north. I-40 EB exit and WB entrance ramps would connect to this new road as well as 15/501.

Initial response in Chapel Hill is strongly negative, not to the DDI (almost anything that would help relieve traffic at this overburdened interchange would be welcome) but to the new road, which would interfere with existing plans to expand the UNC Health complex at Eastowne, increase traffic in that area, and cut through a forest area that serves as a natural buffer between I-40 traffic and Chapel Hill. There is particular concern/anger that NCDOT drew this plan with no consultation with town planners and is seeking quick approval from the town.
https://www.newsobserver.com/news/local/counties/orange-county/article276194786.html

I thought they had long-range plans here for a freeway-to-freeway interchange, and to upgrade 15/501 to the north up to the current freeway section?
For about 25 years NCDOT has had a plan for diamond interchange at Garrett Road, but it has never been funded. That would extend the freeway about a mile across New Hope Creek to Southwest Durham Drive. Another diamond may be possible there although recent development makes this difficult. From there to I-40 commercial development is intense and ramming a freeway through would be extremely expensive.

Here's a ca. 2020 plan from Durham County planners:
https://www.dchcmpo.org/home/show published document/910/637489616303270000
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: froggie on June 09, 2023, 10:53:51 PM
^ *note* remove the spaces between "show published document" to get to the actual PDF, like in this link (https://www.dchcmpo.org/home/showpublisheddocument/910/637489616303270000).

Meanwhile, here's an interesting proposal (https://www.dchcmpo.org/home/showpublisheddocument/932/637495699685170000) from a 1994 study, though this one's probably DOA due to the aforementioned development north of I-40.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: sprjus4 on June 09, 2023, 11:42:05 PM
^ This seems doable, even still with the development, IMO. Convert the frontage roads north of I-40 to one way and serve as the at-grade portion connecting to I-40, and convert the existing mainline into the freeway.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: jdunlop on June 11, 2023, 07:23:27 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 09, 2023, 11:42:05 PM
^ This seems doable, even still with the development, IMO. Convert the frontage roads north of I-40 to one way and serve as the at-grade portion connecting to I-40, and convert the existing mainline into the freeway.

The MPO is against any grade separations and the freeway conversion.  (That includes the long-standing plans to grade separate Mt. Moriah and SW Durham Pky.). That's why the express design was all-surface street (other than grade separations over I-40.  Chapel Hill's primary objection on the road network is the bridge on the north side of 15-501 connecting New hope Commons and Easttowne.  The reason it was included was for traffic capacity, as pushing all traffic to 15-501 would not work in 2045, the design year.  Has something to do with Chapel hill allowing Easttowne to redevelop, adding ~30K trips a day.  But I'm sure ALL the doctors and professional staff will take the bus to/from the site. (Sarcasm alert.). Chapel Hill wants to protect that open area and remove that connection from the plans.

Chapel Hill and the MPO were aware of the express design process starting back around March but not the details.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: OracleUsr on June 11, 2023, 09:26:03 PM
Coming back from my in-laws this evening I noticed something I had never noticed before.  Approaching I-40 on NC 209, there is a NC 209 END sign approaching I-40 on southbound, even though 209 continues to US 74.  Was that ever not the case?  I can never remember a time when 209 didn't extend to Business US 23.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: sprjus4 on June 11, 2023, 10:16:51 PM
Quote from: jdunlop on June 11, 2023, 07:23:27 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 09, 2023, 11:42:05 PM
^ This seems doable, even still with the development, IMO. Convert the frontage roads north of I-40 to one way and serve as the at-grade portion connecting to I-40, and convert the existing mainline into the freeway.

The MPO is against any grade separations and the freeway conversion.  (That includes the long-standing plans to grade separate Mt. Moriah and SW Durham Pky.). That's why the express design was all-surface street (other than grade separations over I-40.  Chapel Hill's primary objection on the road network is the bridge on the north side of 15-501 connecting New hope Commons and Easttowne.  The reason it was included was for traffic capacity, as pushing all traffic to 15-501 would not work in 2045, the design year.  Has something to do with Chapel hill allowing Easttowne to redevelop, adding ~30K trips a day.  But I'm sure ALL the doctors and professional staff will take the bus to/from the site. (Sarcasm alert.). Chapel Hill wants to protect that open area and remove that connection from the plans.

Chapel Hill and the MPO were aware of the express design process starting back around March but not the details.
Why are they opposed to sorely needed overpass upgrades? Traffic is only going to get worse, especially as they approve new developments and thousands of new vehicles, it functions as a freeway connector between Chapel Hill and the existing freeway portion just to the north, but is overloaded by busy traffic signals. The portion north of I-40 has adequate right of way and justification for freeway upgrade. It is stupid to oppose upgrades, and gains no benefit.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on June 11, 2023, 10:26:56 PM
Quote from: OracleUsr on June 11, 2023, 09:26:03 PM
Coming back from my in-laws this evening I noticed something I had never noticed before.  Approaching I-40 on NC 209, there is a NC 209 END sign approaching I-40 on southbound, even though 209 continues to US 74.  Was that ever not the case?  I can never remember a time when 209 didn't extend to Business US 23.
You're right, sign is wrong. According to Wikipedia NC 209 is an original NC highway and its southern end has always been in Lake Junaluska.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: jdunlop on June 11, 2023, 10:31:57 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 11, 2023, 10:16:51 PM
Quote from: jdunlop on June 11, 2023, 07:23:27 PM
Quote from: sprjus4 on June 09, 2023, 11:42:05 PM
^ This seems doable, even still with the development, IMO. Convert the frontage roads north of I-40 to one way and serve as the at-grade portion connecting to I-40, and convert the existing mainline into the freeway.

The MPO is against any grade separations and the freeway conversion.  (That includes the long-standing plans to grade separate Mt. Moriah and SW Durham Pky.). That's why the express design was all-surface street (other than grade separations over I-40.  Chapel Hill's primary objection on the road network is the bridge on the north side of 15-501 connecting New hope Commons and Easttowne.  The reason it was included was for traffic capacity, as pushing all traffic to 15-501 would not work in 2045, the design year.  Has something to do with Chapel hill allowing Easttowne to redevelop, adding ~30K trips a day.  But I'm sure ALL the doctors and professional staff will take the bus to/from the site. (Sarcasm alert.). Chapel Hill wants to protect that open area and remove that connection from the plans.

Chapel Hill and the MPO were aware of the express design process starting back around March but not the details.
Why are they opposed to sorely needed overpass upgrades? Traffic is only going to get worse, especially as they approve new developments and thousands of new vehicles, it functions as a freeway connector between Chapel Hill and the existing freeway portion just to the north, but is overloaded by busy traffic signals. The portion north of I-40 has adequate right of way and justification for freeway upgrade. It is stupid to oppose upgrades, and gains no benefit.

Their opinion is that everybody should walk/bike/take transit, and encouraging auto travel (more specifically single occupancy) is bad, and needs to stop.

(Opinion voice on). If that's the case, then they should change their zoning and approval practices away from those they end up as being auto-dependent developments.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Mapmikey on June 12, 2023, 06:24:45 AM
Quote from: wdcrft63 on June 11, 2023, 10:26:56 PM
Quote from: OracleUsr on June 11, 2023, 09:26:03 PM
Coming back from my in-laws this evening I noticed something I had never noticed before.  Approaching I-40 on NC 209, there is a NC 209 END sign approaching I-40 on southbound, even though 209 continues to US 74.  Was that ever not the case?  I can never remember a time when 209 didn't extend to Business US 23.
You're right, sign is wrong. According to Wikipedia NC 209 is an original NC highway and its southern end has always been in Lake Junaluska.

A NC Byway sign fell off.  That was what ends at I-40...
https://goo.gl/maps/9CuTjrGLsh1DCXrd7
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Love2drive on June 13, 2023, 02:48:55 AM
Interstate 40 West in Greensboro closing this weekend from the 85 split to Freeman Mill Road.  29 South will be closed at the Market Street Exit.

https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-06-09-i-40-west-guilford-resurfacing.aspx
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: cowboy_wilhelm on June 13, 2023, 07:25:10 AM
Quote from: jdunlop on June 11, 2023, 10:31:57 PM
The MPO is against any grade separations and the freeway conversion. [...] Their opinion is that everybody should walk/bike/take transit, and encouraging auto travel (more specifically single occupancy) is bad, and needs to stop.

The same group that is trying to (or has) killed the freeway conversion and interchange for US 70 and Miami Blvd., for the same reasons.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on June 14, 2023, 06:34:48 PM
Quote from: cowboy_wilhelm on June 13, 2023, 07:25:10 AM
Quote from: jdunlop on June 11, 2023, 10:31:57 PM
The MPO is against any grade separations and the freeway conversion. [...] Their opinion is that everybody should walk/bike/take transit, and encouraging auto travel (more specifically single occupancy) is bad, and needs to stop.

The same group that is trying to (or has) killed the freeway conversion and interchange for US 70 and Miami Blvd., for the same reasons.
The MPO met today and raised these points exactly. I think WRAL's headline ("drivers upset..." ) is incorrect. Anyone who has to drive regularly through this interchange would like to see it improved.
https://www.wral.com/story/durham-chapel-hill-drivers-upset-over-proposed-redesign-of-us-15-501/20910409/
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: The Ghostbuster on June 14, 2023, 06:39:03 PM
Maybe those who are upset with the proposal are not drivers, but anti-car NIMBYS.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: wdcrft63 on June 14, 2023, 08:10:15 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on June 14, 2023, 06:39:03 PM
Maybe those who are upset with the proposal are not drivers, but anti-car NIMBYS.
Yes, MPO, we do need to improve public transportation in the Triangle. But show us a way to get GoTriangle buses from Durham to Chapel Hill without improving US 15/501. Being stuck in traffic in a bus is not a big improvement over being stuck in traffic in a car.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Dirt Roads on June 14, 2023, 08:47:09 PM
Quote from: jdunlop on June 11, 2023, 10:31:57 PM
The MPO is against any grade separations and the freeway conversion. [...] Their opinion is that everybody should walk/bike/take transit, and encouraging auto travel (more specifically single occupancy) is bad, and needs to stop.

Quote from: cowboy_wilhelm on June 13, 2023, 07:25:10 AM
The same group that is trying to (or has) killed the freeway conversion and interchange for US 70 and Miami Blvd., for the same reasons.

Quote from: wdcrft63 on June 14, 2023, 06:34:48 PM
The MPO met today and raised these points exactly. I think WRAL's headline ("drivers upset..." ) is incorrect. Anyone who has to drive regularly through this interchange would like to see it improved.
https://www.wral.com/story/durham-chapel-hill-drivers-upset-over-proposed-redesign-of-us-15-501/20910409/

Indeed.  But the only movement that seems problematic is from [westbound] US-15/501 -to- [southbound] I-40.  Pretty much all day long, nowadays.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: froggie on June 15, 2023, 12:43:38 AM
Just my $0.02:

Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: LM117 on June 16, 2023, 03:48:58 PM
A repaving project on I-40 in Pender County between Exit 388 and Exit 408 will begin on June 19. Completion is expected next summer.

https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-06-16-repaving-brunswick-pender-counties.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-06-16-repaving-brunswick-pender-counties.aspx)
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: Plutonic Panda on June 19, 2023, 09:20:15 PM
Quote from: froggie on June 15, 2023, 12:43:38 AM

  • The situation along the 15/501 corridor just shows further why it was foolish to cancel the Chapel Hill-Durham LRT line.  Would it have solved the congestion problems?  No...especially with Easttowne redevelopment.  But it sure as hell would have given people an alternative to get to/from there.
I can't believe they canceled that. What a dumb short sided move.
Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
Post by: architect77 on June 27, 2023, 09:49:42 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on June 19, 2023, 09:20:15 PM
    Quote from: froggie on June 15, 2023, 12:43:38 AM

    • The situation along the 15/501 corridor just shows further why it was foolish to cancel the Chapel Hill-Durham LRT line.  Would it have solved the congestion problems?  No...especially with Easttowne redevelopment.  But it sure as hell would have given people an alternative to get to/from there.
    I can't believe they canceled that. What a dumb short sided move.

    I am for LRT, but the Durham/CH proposal was not executed right. With 17 stops meandering through neighborhoods trying to pick up riders, it would have taken 1.5 hours to travel from end to end, you can drive back and forth 3-4 times in the same time period.

    For that LRT between the 2 cities to work. it needs very few stops, 5 at most, and it must travel at a high speed to beat out driving.[/list]
    Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
    Post by: Plutonic Panda on June 27, 2023, 09:53:04 PM
    Quote from: architect77 on June 27, 2023, 09:49:42 PM
    Quote from: Plutonic Panda on June 19, 2023, 09:20:15 PM
      Quote from: froggie on June 15, 2023, 12:43:38 AM

      • The situation along the 15/501 corridor just shows further why it was foolish to cancel the Chapel Hill-Durham LRT line.  Would it have solved the congestion problems?  No...especially with Easttowne redevelopment.  But it sure as hell would have given people an alternative to get to/from there.
      I can't believe they canceled that. What a dumb short sided move.

      I am for LRT, but the Durham/CH proposal was not executed right. With 17 stops meandering through neighborhoods trying to pick up riders, it would have taken 1.5 hours to travel from end to end, you can drive back and forth 3-4 times in the same time period.

      For that LRT between the 2 cities to work. it needs very few stops, 5 at most, and it must travel at a high speed to beat out driving.[/list]
      Without knowing the exact details of that particular project, I should've worded my post by saying I can't believe they haven't built a metro rail system and canceled that proposed line without any alternatives. If that line wasn't designed right and wouldn't have worked why wasn't something better proposed?
      Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
      Post by: The Ghostbuster on June 28, 2023, 11:09:13 AM
      I would have preferred a bus rapid transit line than a light rail line. A bus line can be rerouted if there is construction, or some incident happens. I dislike the route inflexibility of rail lines.
      Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
      Post by: architect77 on June 29, 2023, 11:41:45 PM
      Quote from: Plutonic Panda on June 27, 2023, 09:53:04 PM
      Quote from: architect77 on June 27, 2023, 09:49:42 PM
      Quote from: Plutonic Panda on June 19, 2023, 09:20:15 PM
        Quote from: froggie on June 15, 2023, 12:43:38 AM

        • The situation along the 15/501 corridor just shows further why it was foolish to cancel the Chapel Hill-Durham LRT line.  Would it have solved the congestion problems?  No...especially with Easttowne redevelopment.  But it sure as hell would have given people an alternative to get to/from there.
        I can't believe they canceled that. What a dumb short sided move.

        I am for LRT, but the Durham/CH proposal was not executed right. With 17 stops meandering through neighborhoods trying to pick up riders, it would have taken 1.5 hours to travel from end to end, you can drive back and forth 3-4 times in the same time period.

        For that LRT between the 2 cities to work. it needs very few stops, 5 at most, and it must travel at a high speed to beat out driving.[/list]
        Without knowing the exact details of that particular project, I should've worded my post by saying I can't believe they haven't built a metro rail system and canceled that proposed line without any alternatives. If that line wasn't designed right and wouldn't have worked why wasn't something better proposed?

        The reasons are like this: they had collected a fair amount of revenue and were counting on a federal match. So with a big sum of money, they then sat down and tried to locate a line that would pick up as many passengers as possible. In other words, the need isn't quite there yet for a project that costs that much money. Also they spent many millions on the study itself, an absurd amount that the public decided to put the brakes on, such a waste on an upfront amount for a plan that didn't make a lot of sense.

        You need two locations that thousands are travelling back and forth to everyday with driving being an extreme hassle to make the train look like a pleasing alternative. Maybe the commuter train initiative will happen eventually. I still would love for a Durham/CH line to happen though.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: Dirt Roads on June 30, 2023, 05:08:26 PM
        Quote from: froggie on June 15, 2023, 12:43:38 AM
        • The situation along the 15/501 corridor just shows further why it was foolish to cancel the Chapel Hill-Durham LRT line.  Would it have solved the congestion problems?  No...especially with Easttowne redevelopment.  But it sure as hell would have given people an alternative to get to/from there.

        Quote from: Plutonic Panda on June 19, 2023, 09:20:15 PM
        I can't believe they canceled that. What a dumb short sided move.

        Quote from: architect77 on June 27, 2023, 09:49:42 PM
        I am for LRT, but the Durham/CH proposal was not executed right. With 17 stops meandering through neighborhoods trying to pick up riders, it would have taken 1.5 hours to travel from end to end, you can drive back and forth 3-4 times in the same time period.

        For that LRT between the 2 cities to work. it needs very few stops, 5 at most, and it must travel at a high speed to beat out driving.

        Quote from: Plutonic Panda on June 27, 2023, 09:53:04 PM
        Without knowing the exact details of that particular project, I should've worded my post by saying I can't believe they haven't built a metro rail system and canceled that proposed line without any alternatives. If that line wasn't designed right and wouldn't have worked why wasn't something better proposed?

        Quote from: architect77 on June 29, 2023, 11:41:45 PM
        The reasons are like this: they had collected a fair amount of revenue and were counting on a federal match. So with a big sum of money, they then sat down and tried to locate a line that would pick up as many passengers as possible. In other words, the need isn't quite there yet for a project that costs that much money. Also they spent many millions on the study itself, an absurd amount that the public decided to put the brakes on, such a waste on an upfront amount for a plan that didn't make a lot of sense.

        You need two locations that thousands are travelling back and forth to everyday with driving being an extreme hassle to make the train look like a pleasing alternative. Maybe the commuter train initiative will happen eventually. I still would love for a Durham/CH line to happen though.

        Forgive me for posting this response in the wrong thread.  You are correct that Triangle Transit (dba GoTriangle, formerly Triangle Transit Authority) has been collecting a great deal of tax revenue from auto registrations in Wake, Durham and Orange counties for more than 20 years, primarily for the development of some form of rail transit somewhere in the region.  One of the big issues here is that we have two Municipal Organizations that after the failed TTA Regional Rail System they mutually decided they should work independently of each other to develop "their own piece of the regional rail network".  But on our end, DCHCMPO (Durham/Chapel Hill/Carrboro Municipal Planning Organization) was pressured by transit-friendly Orange County to add Chapel Hill to "their own piece of the regional rail network".  The original TTA Regional Rail did include a long-term branch line from Research Triangle Park -to- Chapel Hill, but it didn't directly connect Durham and Chapel Hill.  Since that was impractical with "regional rail", LRT was selected as the backup option.  BRT seems trendy in Raleigh now, but that doesn't seem so desirable for a corridor that already has multiple bus services in place (even though an express busway would probably be very successful).

        Cross-posting to the Raleigh-Durham Rail Transit (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=31097.0) thread.  Please post any replies there and we can get into more detailed questions and answers.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: ARMOURERERIC on June 30, 2023, 09:46:17 PM
        On I40 just east of exit 116, there has been an area of high enforcement.  Today, i saw for the first time, a portable overhead gantry over both lanes that appeared to monitor speed and possible photo license plates.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: sprjus4 on June 30, 2023, 11:41:49 PM
        Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on June 30, 2023, 09:46:17 PM
        On I40 just east of exit 116, there has been an area of high enforcement.  Today, i saw for the first time, a portable overhead gantry over both lanes that appeared to monitor speed and possible photo license plates.
        Is this some small town speed trap frenzy to make some revenue, because they have a few thousand feet of I-40 that skirts the edge of their small border?
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: ARMOURERERIC on July 01, 2023, 12:26:14 AM
        Don't think so, this is just before the closed exit to the abandoned rest area where the state troopers usually hide.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: fillup420 on July 01, 2023, 09:34:18 AM
        Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on June 30, 2023, 09:46:17 PM
        On I40 just east of exit 116, there has been an area of high enforcement.  Today, i saw for the first time, a portable overhead gantry over both lanes that appeared to monitor speed and possible photo license plates.

        I saw whats likely the same thing on I-40/85 eastbound exit 138 a couple weeks ago. Temporary overhead gantry placed about 1/2 mile before the exit. Troopers were lined up on the entrance ramp waiting to ruin people's day.

        This also helped me confirm that the NO TRUCKS OVER 3 AXLES IN LEFT TWO LANES rule is not enforced at all  :angry:
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: sprjus4 on July 01, 2023, 09:47:49 AM
        Quote from: fillup420 on July 01, 2023, 09:34:18 AM
        Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on June 30, 2023, 09:46:17 PM
        On I40 just east of exit 116, there has been an area of high enforcement.  Today, i saw for the first time, a portable overhead gantry over both lanes that appeared to monitor speed and possible photo license plates.

        I saw whats likely the same thing on I-40/85 eastbound exit 138 a couple weeks ago. Temporary overhead gantry placed about 1/2 mile before the exit. Troopers were lined up on the entrance ramp waiting to ruin people's day.

        This also helped me confirm that the NO TRUCKS OVER 3 AXLES IN LEFT TWO LANES rule is not enforced at all  :angry:
        It genuinely amazes me when police will blatantly ignore something like no trucks in the left lane, a serious safety issue that impedes the natural flow of traffic, causes speed differentials, causes traffic to pass on the right, abrupt braking, lane weaving, etc.

        ... but have no problem pulling someone going 80 mph in an underposted 65 mph wide-open flat 8 lane freeway. Is it about true safety or is it revenue?

        This reminded me of when I drove the US-74 Monroe Bypass months back, and witnessed county police parked on every single on-ramp, and hidden at the emergency pull-offs by the toll gantries. I drove about 10 miles each way (northern portion) and saw over 10 police in various spots throughout the round trip. I kept my cruise control right at 5 mph over, no more.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: ARMOURERERIC on July 02, 2023, 06:50:55 PM
        Is the new 10 year stip as neglectful of I-40 west of Statesville as it appears to be?
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: architect77 on July 06, 2023, 07:26:37 PM
        Quote from: sprjus4 on July 01, 2023, 09:47:49 AM
        Quote from: fillup420 on July 01, 2023, 09:34:18 AM
        Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on June 30, 2023, 09:46:17 PM
        On I40 just east of exit 116, there has been an area of high enforcement.  Today, i saw for the first time, a portable overhead gantry over both lanes that appeared to monitor speed and possible photo license plates.

        I saw whats likely the same thing on I-40/85 eastbound exit 138 a couple weeks ago. Temporary overhead gantry placed about 1/2 mile before the exit. Troopers were lined up on the entrance ramp waiting to ruin people's day.

        This also helped me confirm that the NO TRUCKS OVER 3 AXLES IN LEFT TWO LANES rule is not enforced at all  :angry:
        It genuinely amazes me when police will blatantly ignore something like no trucks in the left lane, a serious safety issue that impedes the natural flow of traffic, causes speed differentials, causes traffic to pass on the right, abrupt braking, lane weaving, etc.

        ... but have no problem pulling someone going 80 mph in an underposted 65 mph wide-open flat 8 lane freeway. Is it about true safety or is it revenue?

        This reminded me of when I drove the US-74 Monroe Bypass months back, and witnessed county police parked on every single on-ramp, and hidden at the emergency pull-offs by the toll gantries. I drove about 10 miles each way (northern portion) and saw over 10 police in various spots throughout the round trip. I kept my cruise control right at 5 mph over, no more.

        I say contact the highway patrol and bring the truck restrictions to their attention.

        On I-85 in SC the trucks all stay in the middle lane and they fail to keep up with flow of traffic. Though only the left lane is restricted and they are allowed to use the middle lane. everyone's lives would be improved if they stayed in the right lane unless willing to maintain the appropriate speed.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: wdcrft63 on July 21, 2023, 05:57:08 PM
        Starting tonight and lasting for several months the ramps on the east side of the Airport Boulevard exit (Exit 284) will be closed. This includes the I-40 west exit and the I-40 east entrance. The closing is part of the project to reconfigure the interchange as a DDI.
        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-07-21-i-40-airport-boulevard-ramps-closed.aspx
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: LM117 on July 28, 2023, 01:28:16 PM
        Quote from: LM117 on June 16, 2023, 03:48:58 PM
        A repaving project on I-40 in Pender County between Exit 388 and Exit 408 will begin on June 19. Completion is expected next summer.

        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-06-16-repaving-brunswick-pender-counties.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-06-16-repaving-brunswick-pender-counties.aspx)

        A contract for improvements to an additional stretch of I-40 in New Hanover & Pender counties has been awarded.

        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-07-28-new-hanover-pender-interstate-improvements.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-07-28-new-hanover-pender-interstate-improvements.aspx)

        And in Raleigh, the ramp from Wade Avenue to I-40 East will be closed for the weekend as part of the I-40 improvements project in the area.

        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-07-28-wade-avenue-i-40-ramp-closed.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-07-28-wade-avenue-i-40-ramp-closed.aspx)
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: wdcrft63 on August 11, 2023, 07:37:19 PM
        I-40 West will close at the NC 42 exit (Exit 312) 10 pm to 5 am Sunday through Thursday so crews can demolish part of the flyover from US 70 to I-40 at the new Toll 540 interchange.
        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-08-11-i-40-closure-42-clayton-garner.aspx
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: wdcrft63 on August 28, 2023, 09:04:17 PM
        Tonight the Durham County Commission asks NCDOT to name the interchange of I-40 and US 15/501 for former congressman David Price. Price represented Durham for 16 terms until he retired in 2022. Are there other named interchanges in NC?
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: Dirt Roads on August 28, 2023, 09:58:08 PM
        Quote from: wdcrft63 on August 28, 2023, 09:04:17 PM
        Tonight the Durham County Commission asks NCDOT to name the interchange of I-40 and US 15/501 for former congressman David Price. Price represented Durham for 16 terms until he retired in 2022. Are there other named interchanges in NC?

        I'm not having any luck getting the NCDOT ArcGIS mapping for Honorary Designations to work, but some hacking behind the scenes into (yikes) Javascript (yikes) indicates the following three interchanges might have such designations:
        Keep in mind that the bridges at these interchanges may be designated rather than the interchanges themselves.  All of this is fairly new.  It appears that the honorary interchange designation was added by NCDOT in May 2022.  I'll keep looking.

        By the way, Rep. Price (my district) ended his political career as Chair of the House Transportation (et al) Subcommittee.  A fitting tribute to someone who didn't pretend to be like Bud Shuster.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: amroad17 on August 29, 2023, 12:05:01 AM
        Quote from: Dirt Roads on August 28, 2023, 09:58:08 PM
        Quote from: wdcrft63 on August 28, 2023, 09:04:17 PM
        Tonight the Durham County Commission asks NCDOT to name the interchange of I-40 and US 15/501 for former congressman David Price. Price represented Durham for 16 terms until he retired in 2022. Are there other named interchanges in NC?

        I'm not having any luck getting the NCDOT ArcGIS mapping for Honorary Designations to work, but some hacking behind the scenes into (yikes) Javascript (yikes) indicates the following three interchanges might have such designations:

        • I-95 -at- US-64 Rocky Mount
        • I-40 -at- US-74 Clyde
        • I-40 -at- US-74A Asheville
        Keep in mind that the bridges at these interchanges may be designated rather than the interchanges themselves.  All of this is fairly new.  It appears that the honorary interchange designation was added by NCDOT in May 2022.  I'll keep looking.

        By the way, Rep. Price (my district) ended his political career as Chair of the House Transportation (et al) Subcommittee.  A fitting tribute to someone who didn't pretend to be like Bud Shuster.
        Yes, the bridges at these interchanges are designated, for officers killed while on duty I believe, as I just checked the above locations on Google Maps.

        Perhaps a few interchanges could be named for influential NC people.  The US 52/US 421, Salem Pkwy interchange could be named the Clarence "Big House"  Gaines interchange, I-40/NC 54 interchange 273 could be named after Dean Smith, and the future I-240/I-26 interchange in north Asheville  could be named after Robert Moog.

        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: MASTERNC on September 05, 2023, 08:16:17 PM
        Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on June 30, 2023, 09:46:17 PM
        On I40 just east of exit 116, there has been an area of high enforcement.  Today, i saw for the first time, a portable overhead gantry over both lanes that appeared to monitor speed and possible photo license plates.

        It's actually to monitor cell phone and seat belt usage by commercial vehicles

        https://www.cbs17.com/news/north-carolina-news/nc-highway-patrol-utilizing-ai-to-crack-down-on-distracted-driving/#:~:text=The%20cameras%20take%20pictures%20through,drivers%20they%20were%20alerted%20about.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: sprjus4 on September 06, 2023, 12:56:58 AM
        Are they allowed to use the camera / imaging by itself to issue a citation? Or does the camera simply alert nearby officers to pay attention to that vehicle? In my opinion, unless the officer physically witnesses the violation by themselves, with their own eyes, this should not be legal.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: ARMOURERERIC on September 06, 2023, 11:01:07 AM
        The device was moved a few weeks ago to 40 WB just after the 321 merge.  It's right at the new Long View city limit sigñ, and the locals think it's for long view going after speeders.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: MASTERNC on September 06, 2023, 02:49:22 PM
        Quote from: sprjus4 on September 06, 2023, 12:56:58 AM
        Are they allowed to use the camera / imaging by itself to issue a citation? Or does the camera simply alert nearby officers to pay attention to that vehicle? In my opinion, unless the officer physically witnesses the violation by themselves, with their own eyes, this should not be legal.

        It allows them to look into higher vehicles in real time.  In that sense, they are witnessing the violation and can decide whether to pull over the vehicle.

        Quote from: ARMOURERERIC on September 06, 2023, 11:01:07 AM
        The device was moved a few weeks ago to 40 WB just after the 321 merge.  It's right at the new Long View city limit sigñ, and the locals think it's for long view going after speeders.

        Supposedly it can be used to alert officers to speeding vehicles, but I imagine they would have to confirm using their own radar/laser unless the device is approved in the state as a speed measuring device (and even then I imagine someone would challenge it as an illegal speed camera).
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: wdcrft63 on September 08, 2023, 05:36:29 PM
        For the next 14 months I-40 will be down to one lane in each direction for six miles at Old Fort, at the foot of the Blue Ridge east of Asheville. This is an old section overdue for rehabilitation but the project won't be any fun for drivers.
        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-09-08-i-40-old-fort-mountain.aspx
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: cowboy_wilhelm on September 08, 2023, 09:37:05 PM
        Quote from: wdcrft63 on September 08, 2023, 05:36:29 PM
        For the next 14 months I-40 will be down to one lane in each direction for six miles at Old Fort, at the foot of the Blue Ridge east of Asheville. This is an old section overdue for rehabilitation but the project won't be any fun for drivers.
        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-09-08-i-40-old-fort-mountain.aspx

        Says closing one lane, and the majority of the work zone is six lanes. Also, looks like most of the work will be at night:

        The Contractor shall complete the required work of installing, maintaining, and removing the
        traffic control devices for lane closures and restoring traffic to the existing traffic pattern. The
        Contractor shall not close or narrow a lane of traffic, or close a shoulder, on I-40 during the
        following time restrictions:
        DAY AND TIME RESTRICTIONS
        Saturday thru Thursday, 6:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
        Friday, 6:00 A.M. to 12:00 A.M. (Midnight)

        Transportation Management Plans (https://xfer.services.ncdot.gov/dsplan/2023%20Highway%20Letting/07-18-23/Plans%20and%20Proposals/MCDOWELL_49909.3.1_HI-0010_C204738/Standard%20PDF%20Files/200%20Transportation%20Management%20Plans.pdf)
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: wdcrft63 on September 15, 2023, 07:37:00 PM
        Tonight NCDOT will open the new eastbound lanes of I-40 at the I-77 interchange, an important step in what seems like an interminable project. The announcement is a bit confusing but it's trying to say the old eastbound lanes will still be available for access to I-77.
        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-09-15-i-40-traffic-shift.aspx
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: LM117 on October 16, 2023, 12:24:21 PM
        As part of the I-40 widening project between Raleigh and Clayton, the Jones Sausage Road bridge will be closed overnight several times this week in order to prepare the ramps for the upcoming DDI conversion

        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-10-16-jones-sausage-bridge-closure.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-10-16-jones-sausage-bridge-closure.aspx)
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: Strider on October 17, 2023, 07:28:09 PM
        Quote from: wdcrft63 on September 15, 2023, 07:37:00 PM
        Tonight NCDOT will open the new eastbound lanes of I-40 at the I-77 interchange, an important step in what seems like an interminable project. The announcement is a bit confusing but it's trying to say the old eastbound lanes will still be available for access to I-77.
        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-09-15-i-40-traffic-shift.aspx


        Lol yeah the old I-40 eastbound lanes became the CD lanes for both I-77 and US 21 exits with one lane to rejoin I-40 East after I-77 ramps depart, so technically they're right.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: bob7374 on October 17, 2023, 11:16:49 PM
        NCDOT is also starting a project to fix the 'bumpy lane' along I-40 in the Asheville area:
        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-10-16-i-40-bumpy-lane-buncombe.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-10-16-i-40-bumpy-lane-buncombe.aspx)
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: LM117 on November 17, 2023, 01:14:33 PM
        The Jones Sausage Road bridge over I-40 in Garner will be closed for the weekend as part of the DDI conversion project.

        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-11-17-jones-sausage-bridge-closed.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-11-17-jones-sausage-bridge-closed.aspx)
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: ARMOURERERIC on November 17, 2023, 02:40:38 PM
        Signs are up indicating nighttime closures for all the ramps at the 321 cloverleaf.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: bob7374 on December 22, 2023, 11:05:24 AM
        NCDOT announces major milestone for the I-40/I-77 interchange project:
        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-12-22-iredell-county-project-milestone.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2023/2023-12-22-iredell-county-project-milestone.aspx)
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: LM117 on March 08, 2024, 03:36:54 PM
        As part of the I-40 widening project in Orange County, a part of Millhouse Road will be closed for 4 months, beginning Sunday night at 11:00, so that the existing I-40 bridges over Millhouse Road can be widened.

        https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2024/2024-06-03-millhouse-road-long-term-closure.aspx (https://www.ncdot.gov/news/press-releases/Pages/2024/2024-06-03-millhouse-road-long-term-closure.aspx)
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: Dirt Roads on March 08, 2024, 05:47:26 PM
        Also as part of the I-40 widening project in Orange County, the "new lanes" for the bridge over Old NC-86 at Exit 261 are now being utilized for westbound traffic whilst the old westbound structure is being removed/reconstructed.  Those "new lanes" appear to be some 5 or 6 feet higher in elevation than the existing bridges on either side.  Not sure whether the "new lanes" will eventually become two of the three eastbound lanes on the bridge, or will be further reconstructed with a tall Jersey barrier down the middle (ergo, one new eastbound and one new westbound like most of the rest of the I-40 widening project).
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: Strider on March 15, 2024, 12:41:54 AM
        NCDOT is about to wrap up the I-40/I-77/US 21 Partial Turbine interchange. (US 21 interchange is connected via CD lanes) This Youtuber drove and showed most of the interchange area except for I-77 South to I-40 East loop ramp. Here is the video link below:

        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I35GayoPtDk

        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: ARMOURERERIC on March 15, 2024, 09:01:20 PM
        There will be a division let on 3/20  to rehab and widen the overcrossing at Exit 113.  The widening will be a few feet to either side to allow for a left turn lane on the bridge.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: Henry on March 15, 2024, 10:32:33 PM
        Those two interchanges are awesome! A DDI at US 21 and a 3/4 turbine at I-77, and C/D roads connect them both? I love it!
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: cowboy_wilhelm on March 16, 2024, 12:10:54 PM
        The six through lanes on I-40 are a bit of overkill with the collector lanes. No one seems to be utilizing the third right lane since it ends up exiting or ending after a couple of miles, especially the tractor-trailers. I wish they'd gone ahead and widened a couple more miles west to Exit 148 and rebuilt the two sub-standard interchanges/bridges at 148 and 150.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: ARMOURERERIC on March 16, 2024, 03:06:26 PM
        I recall that at one point there was a 12 month item for redoing exit 148, I will go back and look.
        Title: Re: I-40 in North Carolina
        Post by: sprjus4 on March 17, 2024, 01:48:05 AM
        Quote from: cowboy_wilhelm on March 16, 2024, 12:10:54 PM
        The six through lanes on I-40 are a bit of overkill with the collector lanes. No one seems to be utilizing the third right lane since it ends up exiting or ending after a couple of miles, especially the tractor-trailers.
        I wouldn't say it's overkill... building for the future. It allows traffic to have more merging space and to un-choke traffic a little bit through that interchange area.