TRAFFIC | By Dave Vieser
Sept. 29. As a reporter for Cornelius Today, I’m often asked that question. The goalposts have already been moved several times on this NC Dept. of Transportation project, which will eventually widen what is often a congested two lane road into a four-lane divided thoroughfare from Jetton Road to Sam Furr.
Interestingly enough, we reported (“West Catawba Phase Two widening will eliminate most left turns”) in November of 2014 that construction on Phase 2 widening would begin in late 2018. Five years later, it hasn’t happened.
Here’s the latest on the widening of West Catawba Avenue with input from Deputy Town Manager Wayne Herron.
What is the current projected start date for construction?
Answer: March 2026.
Why the delay?
Answer: It’s a combination of factors, including funding issues at the DOT, as well as delays in surveying and acquiring property.
How long will the construction take once it begins?
Answer: Approximately three years if all goes as planned, meaning final completion will be in 2029 under the current schedule.
Has the DOT at least completed property acquisition?
Answer: No. NCDOT is currently working to acquire the properties along the right of way that will be needed to widen the road. It is now estimated it will take through 2024 to negotiate and acquire all of the properties needed.
What is the current project cost, including a breakdown of the town portion?
Answer: NCDOT is still working to value-engineer the project to reduce costs. It is estimated that it may now be in the $29 million range, rather than the $53 million range once quoted by DOT. No matter the costs to NCDOT, the Town’s costs will remain at $3.7 million.
What will happen to the West Catawba/Westmoreland Road intersection?
Answer: It will remain a signalized intersection, but the Alexander Farm developer will be required to build additional turning lanes.
Will utility lines be buried as they were when Catawba east of Jetton was widened?
Answer: No, while this was a desired feature when the project was first being planned, it became very clear early on that the cost would be prohibitive.
How will traffic be managed during construction?
Answer: Suffice to say it will be a difficult three years in Cornelius and motorists will need to consider taking alternate routes when they can.
