CHARLOTTE – The N.C. Department of Transportation is holding a public meeting to gather input on a proposed project to improve safety and reduce congestion on a busy road in University City.
The project proposes widening 1.2 miles of N.C. 49 from four to six lanes between John Kirk Drive at the UNC-Charlotte campus and Interstate 485. As part of the proposal, a raised median would be constructed along the corridor in the project area.
The median would be extended through the intersections with traffic signals at some locations to redirect drivers from side streets to turn right onto N.C. 49. NCDOT refers to this innovative design as a Reduced Conflict Intersection, because it drastically reduces the potential for vehicle crashes and it allows people to reach their destinations more quickly.
In addition, Back Creek Church Road would be realigned to connect with the existing N.C. 49/Mallard Creek Church Road intersection. The existing N.C. 49/Back Creek Church Road intersection would be closed, and a cul-de-sac would be built just south of the North Carolina Railroad/Norfolk Southern Railroad tracks, eliminating the crossing to improve safety.
The proposed widening and Back Creek Church Road realignment are a joint effort by NCDOT and the city of Charlotte’s Department of Transportation. The Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization’s 2045 Metropolitan Transportation Plan has recommended these improvements.
A public meeting will be held from 4 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, April 23 in the Lucas Room of the Cone Center at the University of North Carolina - Charlotte campus, 9025 University Road. Those interested may attend the meeting at any time, as no formal presentation will be made. Parking will be available at the Cone Deck adjacent to the Cone Center.
People who cannot attend the meeting may submit comments in writing, by phone or email through May 7. All comments received will be reviewed and considered for the final design.
To send comments or learn more, contact NCDOT Project Engineer Wilson Stroud at 919-707-6045. You may also submit comments to 1582 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, N.C., 27699-1582.
NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled persons who wish to participate in this meeting. Anyone requiring special services should contact Diane Wilson at 919-707-6073 as early as possible so arrangements can be made.
People who do not speak English, or have a limited ability to read, speak or understand English, may receive interpretive services upon request prior to the meeting by calling 1-800-481-6494.