GOLDSBORO, N.C. – The North Carolina Department of Transportation is moving forward with plans to significantly improve East Ash Street in Wayne County, proposing to widen the roadway, construct two roundabouts, and reconfigure traffic patterns at the U.S. 70 intersection.
The department will host a public open house from 5-7 p.m. on August 19 at Greenwood Middle School’s cafeteria, located at 3209 E. Ash St. The informal meeting will provide residents and stakeholders an opportunity to review preliminary design maps, engage with the project team, and submit feedback on the proposed improvements.
Comprehensive Roadway Expansion Plan
The ambitious project centers on widening approximately one mile of East Ash Street (U.S. 70 Business), transforming the current three-lane configuration into four lanes with a raised median. The improvements will span from Meadow Lane Elementary School to U.S. 70.
Key Project Components
The proposed improvements include several major infrastructure changes:
Roundabout Construction: Two multilane roundabouts will be built on East Ash Street at Oak Forest Road and at Meadow Road/Commercial Drive intersections.
Intersection Redesign: The project calls for reconstructing and realigning the East Ash Street intersection with U.S. 70 into a reduced conflict intersection. This design will redirect drivers to turn right onto the four-lane highway, improving traffic flow and safety.
Pedestrian Infrastructure: A 5-foot sidewalk will be constructed on the north side of East Ash Street, while a 10-foot multi-use path will be built on the south side, enhancing pedestrian and cyclist access.
Safety and Congestion Relief Goals
According to NCDOT, the proposed changes are designed to address two primary concerns: reducing traffic congestion and improving safety for both vehicular traffic and pedestrians along this heavily traveled corridor.
Public Input Opportunities
Citizens have multiple ways to participate in the planning process and provide feedback on the proposed improvements. Project details are available on NCDOT’s public input website, where community members can submit questions and comments directly to the project team.
Alternative contact methods include calling 984-205-6615 and entering project code 11571 to leave a message, or sending email correspondence to [email protected].
The department emphasizes that all comments received by September 19 will be considered in the final design process.
Accessibility and Language Services
NCDOT is committed to ensuring broad community participation in the planning process. The department will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for individuals who wish to participate in the meeting.
Anyone requiring special accommodations should contact Josh Nguyen of NCDOT’s Environmental Analysis Unit at 919-707-6059 or [email protected] as early as possible to allow time for proper arrangements.
For non-English speakers or those with limited English proficiency, interpretive services are available upon request prior to the meeting by calling 1-800-481-6494.
The East Ash Street improvement project represents a significant investment in Wayne County’s transportation infrastructure, aimed at addressing current traffic challenges while preparing for future growth in the Goldsboro area.
