RALEIGH – The following are highlights from this week at the N.C. Department of Transportation. The stories below are also featured in
NCDOT Now, the department's weekly newscast.
Robeson County Traffic Deaths Focus of Virtual Meeting
NCDOT, the Governor’s Highway Safety Program and the Vision Zero task force are working to curb traffic deaths in Robeson County.
The county has recorded 16 traffic deaths through April this year, compared with 10 traffic deaths during the same period last year. Transportation officials found the increase was due, in part, to more people speeding excessively on less crowded roads during the pandemic.
NCDOT officials and the task force hosted a virtual public meeting this week and emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant to reduce traffic deaths.
There are many ways you can increase roadway safety behind the wheel and where you live. Log on to
ncvisionzero.org to become a Vision Zero advocate today.
Welcome Centers Reopen
Eight of nine North Carolina welcome centers have reopened after being closed due to COVID-19. The final welcome center, off Interstate 77 in Mecklenburg County, is expected to reopen in July.
Each welcome center will follow safety protocols and will be thoroughly cleaned to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Welcome centers are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily and can be found off interstates just inside the North Carolina state line.
Highway rest areas have remained open during the pandemic. Staff are also taking additional cleaning measures at all 58 rest areas.
Welcome centers and rest areas give motorists opportunities for convenient, brief stops with easy access to public restrooms, water and travel information. To find a rest area or welcome center, go to ncdot.gov and search “rest areas.”
More Information on COVID-19
On the department’s website, you will find additional
updates and measures NCDOT is taking when it comes to the coronavirus.
The state also frequently updates its
COVID-19 website, which contains the latest data about the virus, where to find testing sites, public health guidance for businesses and employers and how to apply for unemployment assistance.