The opening of the new Gallants Channel high rise bridge has caused some major delays for commuters in and around Beaufort. Now, adjustments have been made to relieve traffic congestion.
To allow more convenient access to downtown Beaufort, the North Carolina Department of Transportation has opened the Grayden Paul drawbridge for eastbound travelers only. Commuters entering Beaufort from Morehead City will be able to access the drawbridge in addition to the high rise. The department has also:
- Resynchronized traffic signals at the intersection of N.C. 101 and Highway 70.
- Remarked the lanes on Highway 70 eastbound at the intersection of 101 to provide a right turn lane on to the portion of N.C. 101 that goes into Beaufort.
- Re-opened both eastbound and westbound lanes on Live Oak Street in the Shell Landing area.
On Monday, delays of a half hour or more were reported as traffic was backed up to the high rise bridge in Morehead City. DOT Division 2 Engineer Preston Hunter says “When a new traffic pattern is put in place, there can be unintended effects on traffic. Sometimes we need to adjust these interim traffic patterns to restore an acceptable flow of traffic." Most of these adjustments will be made over the next several days. Drivers should expect to encounter intermittent lane closures and temporary traffic shifts.
