US 70 West loop to I-40 East closing in Clayton for construction of new interchange
Contractors are shutting down the U.S. Highway 70 West loop to Interstate 40 East in Clayton to make way for a new interchange.
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Work was originally scheduled to begin Wednesday, but the North Carolina Department of Transportation announced the work has been moved to Thursday. The loop will be closed to allow crews to build a turbine-style interchange for I-40, U.S. 70 and toll road N.C. 540.
The change will allow most traffic to travel at 55 mph.
During construction, signs will direct drivers to a marked detour, using exit U.S. 70 West and N.C. 42 West to get on I-40 East.
The new turbine-style interchange, when opened, will allow drivers to get to I-40 East from U.S. 70 West again. The work will take about 14 months, and the interchange is tentatively expected to open in 2023.
Dennis Jernigan with the NCDOT said the detour won't have a big impact on drivers, but it will take time to adjust.
“This is a little bit unique….we don’t want to add time to your commute," he said.
Drivers are advised to slow down and pay special attention around the work zone.
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