The New Bern Area MPO strives to keep our citizens updated on all aspects of transportation in our area. As COVID-19 has impacted all of us, so it trickles down into areas we may not have considered. Transportation is one of those.
As many may have read or heard on local news venues, the NCDOT is not immune to the impacts of less travel. Many projects are being put on hold due to budget constraints created with less people traveling, by remaining safe and sound in their homes.
We are pleased to update that despite these budget concerns, as of now, the first phase of the James City project (from the Neuse River Bridge to Thurman Rd.) and the NC 43 Connector (from US 70/I-42 to Bus. 17) project will continue as scheduled. These projects are not funded by tax generated funds, rather they are funded through the BUILD NC bonds, and therefore are currently not impacted.
The last phase of the US 70/I-42 upgrade, from Thurman Road to the future Havelock Bypass, however, has been impacted. As we work through the adjustments we have all made for our safety due to the pandemic, life will begin resuming a new normal, as will travel. We will work through this and will keep you updated on the progress being made toward upgrading current US 70 to I-42.
If you have any questions, the New Bern Area MPO staff is available to answer them.