Traffic Shift, Ramp Closings To Take Effect Along I-40 West In Durham County

Westbound traffic on I-40 will be shifted to the new inside lane and inside shoulder until the end of the year, weather permitting.

In order to install the new traffic pattern, traffic on I-40 West will be reduced to one lane between N.C. 147 and N.C. 55 beginning Friday at 8 p.m. The shift will be completed by 6 a.m., Monday.

Beginning Friday, all I-40 West ramps at N.C. 147 will be closed, except the I-40 West ramp accessing N.C. 147 North. The N.C. 147 ramps and loops will remain closed for about 60 days.

Detours for I-40 West motorists will be to proceed to the next exit and then re-enter I-40 eastbound and return to the desired exit. N.C. 147 traffic needing to access I-40 West will take I-40 East to the next exit and then access I-40 West. All detours will be signed.

The traffic shift and ramp closings are necessary to widen I-40 from four to six lanes and install concrete median barriers. The 10.6 mile section extends from the Orange County line to the Durham Freeway.

During construction, motorists can expect nighttime ramp, loop and lane closings, narrowed lanes, traffic shifts and delays. Extensive nighttime work will be necessary to complete this project.

The project is anticipated to be complete in late 2005.

Motorists are reminded to obey the posted speed limit of 55 mph, stay alert and be aware of construction workers in the work zone.