NCDOT approves Interstate connecting multiple cities in ENC

GREENVILLE, N.C. (WNCT) — A big upgrade is coming to some Eastern North Carolina Interstates.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation is working to convert two bypass segments of US 70 into Interstate 42. The NCDOT received federal approval for the Interstate. Now, crews are working in Johnston, Wayne and Lenoir counties.

Interstate 42 is designed to connect major cities in Eastern North Carolina. The hope for NCDOT is that this improves reliability with freight deliveries, reduces delays and increases connectivity all over the state. The route currently has a few phases in active construction.

This Interstate will ultimately connect all the way down to Morehead City. The NCDOT looked at a recent study that showed roads with Interstate standards have a 60 percent lower fatality rate and a 70 percent lower injury rate.

The difference is evident, especially in rural parts of Eastern North Carolina. A wider road that is smoother with safer shoulders will be a huge addition for people using the Interstate in those areas.

“There’s no intersection. So is this free travel or free unstopped or unblocked travel. It’s smooth as wide and offers higher speeds. Also, the road can serve as a major hurricane evacuation route,” Michael Aman, with the NCDOT said.

There is no set completion date as of right now, but people can expect occasional day lane closures in the near future while crews complete the upgrade.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WNCT.