Description
Among several projects taking place along the I-85 corridor through Gastonia in Gaston County, U-6044 pertains to the widening of a 0.3-mile stretch of Cox Road (SR 2200) between US 27/49 (locally referred to as Franklin Boulevard) and the south entry/exits to I-85. It is among the busiest sections of road in the county.
Improvements and refinements have been proposed to alleviate congestion, increase travel connectivity, and account for non-vehicle traffic, including an “enhanced conventional” approach and a “displaced left turns” approach. Traffic around CaroMont Health north of the project area is causing increasing backups.
Franklin Boulevard is a primary artery through Gastonia, moving four to six lanes of traffic in rough east-west parallel to I-85. Thick traffic from Cox Road can also cause backups there.
Either approach can potentially disrupt numerous local businesses, as this 0.3-mile stretch is business-dense, including restaurants, retail, banking, and more. Regardless of the choice, more right of way will be required, encroaching into the already tight confines of commercial properties.
More than 35 parcels are being targeted for takings for this project, and some properties may lose substantial land. With the accompanying drainage, slope, and utility work, property owners may find themselves uncomfortably close to more traffic and more noise. As the properties are almost exclusively commercial in nature, owners must be wary of parking losses, access restrictions, easements, slopes, water control, and more.
This project is expected to cost nearly $28 million, with more than $21 million set aside for property acquisition.
If your property, business, or residence is affected by the Cox Road improvement project in Gastonia, don’t wait for the NCDOT to come knocking! Call us right now at 1-877-393-4990 or contact us online for a free case evaluation. Ask about our no-fee guarantee – our clients pay us nothing unless we collect for them!
1-877-393-4990
1-877-393-4990