$3.7 Million Project to Ease Congestion at Busy Clayton Intersection
The Town of Clayton’s busiest intersection of Shotwell Road and U.S. 70 Business (BUS) will soon see major improvements that will considerably ease traffic congestion.
After years of collaboration with the Clayton Town Council, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), and the North Carolina Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (CAMPO), awarded a $3.7 million contract to Wilson-based S.T. Wooten Corp. to improve the flow of traffic at the intersection.
According to NCDOT, the contractor will not be allowed to close any lanes between 6 a.m. and 8:30 p.m., which should minimize traffic disruptions while the work is performed in the evening hours.
The project includes adding a second left-turn lane on U.S. 70 BUS eastbound to go north on Shotwell Road, a second left-turn lane on Shotwell Road to go west on U.S. 70 BUS, and a dedicated right-turn lane on Shotwell Road going west on U.S. 70 BUS.
“Our Town Council’s dedication to improving traffic safety is clearly demonstrated by this project,” said Mayor Jody McLeod. “I am glad to see NCDOT has recognized the necessity of these upgrades that our residents have been advocating for.”
Additionally, the project will feature enhancements such as metal poles for the traffic signals, concrete traffic islands and sidewalk upgrades, drainage improvements, and concrete curbs and gutters.
“These enhancements will improve safety at one of our busiest intersections,” said McLeod. “It’s a great example of what we can achieve through strong partnerships and a commitment to the well-being of our community.”
This project is part of the Locally Administered Projects Program (LAPP), facilitated by CAMPO, which helps municipalities leverage state and federal funding for vital infrastructure improvements. The collaborative effort between NCDOT, CAMPO, and the Town of Clayton has been instrumental in securing the necessary resources for this project, which is funded with 80 percent federal funds and 20 percent state funds.
S.T. Wooten can begin construction this fall. Once underway, drivers should slow down, be alert, and follow all work zone signs in this area. The project is expected to be substantially complete by the end of 2025.
