RALEIGH, N.C. – The North Carolina Department of Transportation has launched a comprehensive public engagement initiative to gather community input on transportation projects for inclusion in its upcoming 10-year plan covering 2028-2037.
Strategic Investment Approach
The department’s approach centers on three core objectives: enhancing safety, reducing traffic congestion, and fostering economic growth throughout the state. NCDOT utilizes a data-driven methodology combined with local community feedback to determine project funding priorities within the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP).
This systematic approach stems from the Strategic Transportation Investments law, which established a specific formula for project evaluation and selection. The framework enables NCDOT to allocate resources more effectively, ultimately supporting infrastructure improvements that drive job creation and enhance quality of life for North Carolina residents.
Public Comment Period Details
The statewide public comment period is currently active and will continue through Friday, August 29. Community members have multiple options for participation:
- Online engagement: An interactive survey available on NCDOT’s website allows residents to submit project suggestions and feedback
- In-person consultation: Week-long drop-in sessions are being held at NCDOT offices throughout the state
Complete information about the online survey and specific dates for in-person meetings can be accessed through the department’s official website.
Project Scope and Transportation Modes
The initiative welcomes project suggestions across a broad spectrum of scales and applications. Proposals can range from major interstate improvements to smaller-scale enhancements such as new turn lanes or intersection upgrades.
NCDOT oversees six distinct transportation modes, all of which are eligible for consideration:
- Highway infrastructure
- Aviation facilities
- Bicycle and pedestrian pathways
- Ferry services
- Public transportation systems
- Rail networks
The department emphasizes that this comment period specifically targets capital improvement projects rather than routine maintenance activities. Standard maintenance work, including pothole repairs, road resurfacing, and drainage improvements, follows a separate prioritization process within the department.
Comprehensive Input Collection
Beyond public feedback, NCDOT will gather recommendations from local transportation planning organizations and internal staff across the state to develop a comprehensive list of potential projects for evaluation.
Timeline for Implementation
The department has outlined a clear timeline for the planning and approval process:
- Spring 2026: Release of project scores and draft funding list for Statewide Mobility level projects, representing the first tier of the three-tier prioritization system
- Later 2026: Additional public comment periods for Regional Impact and Division Needs level projects
- Early 2027: Publication of the complete 2028-2037 draft STIP
- Summer 2027: Final adoption by the Board of Transportation
Additional Resources
For current travel conditions and updates, residents can visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT’s social media channels for real-time information.
