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Long-debated road project in Washington finally moving forward

A long-debated road project in Washington is finally moving forward after a major turnaround by city leaders.

On Monday night, the Washington City Council voted unanimously to support a nearly $39-million plan to widen 15th Street. The NCDOT project will expand a nearly two-mile stretch of the busy corridor to four lanes with a center median, while adding new sidewalks and a multi-use path.

The vote marks a shift for the council, which had previously been hesitant about the plan. City leaders say a recent workshop with state engineers helped clear up concerns—and highlighted more than $7 million in free utility upgrades the city would receive.

Right-of-way acquisition is expected to begin this June, with major construction expected to start in 2028.

Annette is an award-winning journalist based in Eastern North Carolina. Her career includes professional stops across the Midwest, Pacific Northwest, and Southeast, recently culminating in a 2026 Region 8 Edward R. Murrow Award for Small Market Radio Best News Series for her work on the Camp Lejeune Justice Act Series. Guided by a passion for human-interest storytelling, she focuses on narratives that touch hearts and connect communities. A mother of four and grandmother of two, Annette enjoys reading and creating epic Halloween costumes in her spare time. If you have a story idea to share, please reach out by email to westona@cravencc.edu.