Public Input Sought on $23 Million Highway Expansion
BENSON, N.C. – The North Carolina Department of Transportation is seeking public feedback on plans to widen a critical stretch of N.C. 242 north of Benson, transforming more than a half-mile of the existing two-lane highway into a modern four-lane roadway.
Project Overview
The proposed expansion would convert N.C. 242 between Tarheel Road and Interstate 40 at Exit 325 into a four-lane highway with a raised median. The $23 million project also includes several key infrastructure improvements designed to enhance safety and traffic flow in the area.
Construction plans call for the installation of concrete curbs and gutters along the widened corridor. Additionally, NCDOT engineers have designed roundabouts at two major intersections: where the highway meets Federal Road Extension and at Tarheel Road.
Public Open House Scheduled
Residents and stakeholders are invited to attend a public open house on November 13 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Benson Conference Center at Town Hall, located at 303 E. Church St. The informal gathering will allow attendees to review detailed design maps and speak directly with members of the project team.
No formal presentation is planned for the event, giving participants the flexibility to arrive at their convenience during the two-hour window and focus on aspects of the project most relevant to their interests.
How to Submit Comments
NCDOT will accept public comments through December 5, and all feedback will be considered in the final design process. Those unable to attend the open house have multiple options for participation:
- Email comments or questions to 242_Widening@publicinput.com
- Call 984-205-6615 and enter project code 12144 to leave a voicemail
- Visit NCDOT’s public input website to submit comments online and access additional project information
Funding Status
While the project carries an estimated price tag of $23 million, it is currently funded only for preliminary engineering work in the State Transportation Improvement Program. Full construction funding has not yet been secured.
Accessibility and Language Services
NCDOT is committed to ensuring all community members can participate in the public input process. Individuals requiring accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act should contact Emily Richards at 919-707-6014 or edrichards1@ncdot.gov as early as possible to arrange necessary services.
For residents who do not speak English or have limited English proficiency, interpretive services are available upon request by calling 1-800-481-6494.
