Wayne County — As Memorial Day weekend kicks off one of the busiest travel periods of the year, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is ramping up efforts to ensure public safety and improve transportation services across the state.
“Click It or Ticket” Campaign Underway
In coordination with the Governor’s Highway Safety Program, NCDOT has launched the annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign, aimed at increasing seat belt use through June 1. Law enforcement agencies statewide will heighten patrols to crack down on unbuckled drivers and passengers.
The campaign comes in response to troubling statistics — 466 unbuckled drivers lost their lives in North Carolina crashes in 2024 alone. As traffic volume surges over the long weekend, officials are urging all motorists to stay alert, buckle up, and travel safely.
To ease congestion and improve safety, most construction-related lane closures on major highways and interstates have been suspended through the evening of Tuesday, May 27. Travelers are encouraged to check DriveNC.gov for real-time traffic updates.
Public Input Sought for Expanding NC By Train
In a push to meet rising demand for rail travel, NCDOT is inviting the public to share feedback on planned improvements and expansions for NC By Train, the state’s intercity passenger rail service. The initiative is part of NCDOT’s broader strategy to enhance mobility options and accommodate record-breaking ridership.
The Rail Division will host a series of open-house meetings in cities along the Raleigh-to-Charlotte corridor. Residents are encouraged to stop by between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. to speak with department staff, learn about future plans, and participate in a brief survey, which is also available online through June 30.
NC By Train has seen a 12% ridership increase over the past year, with more than 720,000 passengers in 2024. Planned upgrades will aim to improve rider experience and support continued growth.
For schedules, ticket purchases, and more information, visit NCByTrain.org.
Stay Informed
These updates are part of NCDOT’s weekly newscast, NCDOT Now. For additional stories or to contact the NCDOT Communications Office, call (919) 707-2660 or visit NCDOT.gov.
