U.S. 70 bypass to become I-42 this Fall

GOLDSBORO, N.C. (WNCT) — The U.S. 70 Bypass will be getting new mile markers and exit numbers this Fall as it changes to Interstate 42.

N.C. Department of Transportation received approval to change the 20-mile bypass as a part of the project to convert U.S. 70 to interstate standards.

State transportation officials say having an interstate connecting military bases, the Morehead City port as well as cities will improve travel, safety and support economic opprotunities in eastern North Carolina. This section has a junction with I-795 that connects I-587 and I-95 in Wilson.

Eighty-two metal signs will be replaced along with 108 that will stay in place but have an adhesive overlay of the I-42 shield. Eighty mile marker signs will be replaced to reflect the new numbers.

According to NCDOT, the highway’s interchange with N.C. 581, now signed as Exit 351, will become Exit 35. The new I-42 mile markers and exit numbers will increase going eastward as NCDOT further develops the future I-42 corridor; and they will decrease going westward – to mile marker 1 where I-40 and U.S. 70 converge outside Clayton.

The new sign installations will begin along the Goldsboro bypass on Monday. The changes will take several weeks. Drivers should be mindful of daytime lane closures, crews, and equipment.

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