SMITHFIELD, N.C. – Two major bridges in Johnston County are set to receive comprehensive preservation work under a $1.9 million contract recently awarded by the North Carolina Department of Transportation, officials announced this week.

Contract Details and Timeline

American Civil Constructors West Coast LLC has been selected to perform the extensive maintenance work on both structures. While a specific start date has not yet been established, the contractor has until next year to complete all preservation activities.

The project will require periodic overnight lane closures, prompting transportation officials to urge drivers to exercise caution and reduce speeds when traveling through the work zones.

Bridges Targeted for Preservation

The preservation work will focus on two critical transportation links:

• The U.S. 70 bridge spanning Interstate 95 outside Selma
• The M. Durwood Stephenson Parkway bridge crossing the Neuse River north of Smithfield

Scope of Preservation Work

The comprehensive maintenance program includes several key components designed to extend the operational life of both structures. Workers will apply an epoxy-resin sealant to the driving decks, a process that requires the careful removal of a thin concrete layer before installing the protective overlay material.

Additional preservation measures include repairing areas of the deck that have experienced cracking or chipping damage. Safety improvements will also be implemented through the addition of grooves designed to reduce stormwater pooling on the bridge surfaces.

The project extends beyond surface-level work, with maintenance crews also addressing substructure components located beneath the bridge decks.

Safety Considerations for Drivers

Transportation officials emphasize the importance of driver awareness during the construction period. Motorists are advised to remain alert and reduce speeds when crossing either bridge while work is being performed.

The overnight scheduling of lane closures is intended to minimize disruption to daily commuter traffic while ensuring worker safety during the preservation activities.

Travel Information Resources

Drivers seeking real-time traffic updates and construction information can access current conditions through DriveNC.gov, the state’s official travel information portal. Additional updates are available through NCDOT’s social media channels.

The bridge preservation project represents part of the state’s ongoing commitment to maintaining critical infrastructure and ensuring the safety and reliability of North Carolina’s transportation network.

Contact Information

For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.