RALEIGH, N.C. — The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has announced several noteworthy projects and initiatives this week, showcasing ongoing efforts to honor public service, enhance infrastructure resilience, and ensure safety across the state. Below are the highlights featured in NCDOT Now, the department’s weekly newscast.

Section of I-85 Named in Honor of Senator Elizabeth Dole

In a heartfelt tribute to a distinguished public servant, a segment of Interstate 85 in Salisbury has been officially designated as the “Senator Elizabeth Dole Highway.” This stretch spans approximately 2.5 miles from near Jake Alexander Boulevard to Bringle Ferry Road, recognizing Dole’s lifetime of service at local, national, and international levels.

Elizabeth Dole, a Salisbury native, has held numerous influential roles, including U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Secretary of Labor, president of the American Red Cross, and North Carolina’s first female U.S. Senator.

“Honoring Senator Elizabeth Dole with this highway naming celebrates her extraordinary leadership and dedication to our state and nation,” said NCDOT officials.

Strategic Site Selection for Hurricane Helene Damage Repair

In response to the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, NCDOT and its partners have identified two strategic locations in the Pigeon River Gorge for material extraction and storage to facilitate repairs on Interstate 40.

These sites are positioned just across the river from the damaged sections, with one designated for stone extraction and a smaller adjacent site for storing the materials. This targeted approach aims to streamline recovery efforts, reduce construction costs, and expedite repairs by sourcing materials closer to the damage zone.

“Locating these sites nearby allows us to rebuild more efficiently, saving time and resources,” explained NCDOT project coordinators.

Innovative Underwater Bridge Inspections Support Infrastructure Safety

While drivers may notice NCDOT crews inspecting roads and bridges above ground, few realize the department’s efforts extend beneath the water’s surface. NCDOT’s underwater inspectors play a crucial role in assessing the structural integrity of bridges to ensure safe travel throughout North Carolina.

“Nobody thinks about it – but you can’t see what’s going on under water without actually going down there and putting your hands on it,” said Underwater Bridge Supervisor Billy Mueller.

With more than 4,200 structures across the state requiring regular inspections, these specialized teams provide vital data that maintenance engineers use to plan repairs and prevent potential failures.

Stay Informed

For more updates and detailed stories from this week, visit NCDOT.gov. To contact the NCDOT Communications Office for inquiries about NCDOT Now, call (919) 707-2660.

This week’s highlights demonstrate NCDOT’s commitment to honoring public service, advancing infrastructure resilience, and maintaining safety for all North Carolinians.