The North Carolina Department of Transportation and the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation have released a report recommending to the Federal Railroad Administration the preferred rail alternative for each of the 26 sections of the Southeast High Speed Rail corridor between Richmond, Va., and Raleigh.
The report alternatives are based on considerations concerning the human and natural environment, costs and operability/constructability. Also considered were the public, local government and agency comments received following the May 2010 publication of the SEHSR Tier II Draft Environmental Impact Statement for the Richmond to Raleigh portion of the SEHSR. Eight public hearings were held in July 2010 to provide information on the alternatives and obtain public input, and several alternatives have been redesigned based on comments received from the public.
Once approved by FRA, the preferred alternatives will be presented in the forthcoming Tier II Final Environmental Impact Statement, anticipated to be published in early 2013, followed by a Record of Decision from the FRA and a second round of public hearings.
The SEHSR project proposes to implement approximately 162 miles of high speed rail as part of an overall plan to extend high speed passenger rail service from the Northeast Corridor (Boston, Mass., to Washington, D.C.) southward through Virginia to Charlotte and Florida.
The Recommendation Report is available for download on the project website.
See what ended up on The News of Orange County's cutting room floor.
Showing posts with label transportation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label transportation. Show all posts
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Tar Heel Express shuttle to UNC vs. Clemson men's basketball game
Chapel Hill Transit will provide Tar Heel Express shuttle service on Saturday, Feb. 18, for the North Carolina men's basketball game against Clemson, scheduled for 4 p.m. at the Dean E. Smith Center.
Tar Heel Express shuttles will begin at 2:30 p.m. from the park and rides located at Friday Center, Southern Village, University Mall (next to Dillards) and Jones Ferry. Shuttles will also be available from the Carolina Coffee Shop located at 138 E. Franklin St. (no parking provided). The shuttles will provide continuous and fully accessible service, running every 10 to 15 minutes between the park and rides and the Dean E. Smith Center. The shuttles will operate for approximately 45 minutes following the game.
Shuttles drop off and pick up on Bowles Drive in front of the Dean E. Smith Center. Shuttle rides are $5 for a round-trip or $3 for a one-way trip. Rides from the Carolina Coffee Shop are $2 one-way or $4 round-trip.
For additional information on the Tar Heel Express Shuttle, visit CHT's website or call a customer service representative at (919) 969-4900 (press 1).
Tar Heel Express shuttles will begin at 2:30 p.m. from the park and rides located at Friday Center, Southern Village, University Mall (next to Dillards) and Jones Ferry. Shuttles will also be available from the Carolina Coffee Shop located at 138 E. Franklin St. (no parking provided). The shuttles will provide continuous and fully accessible service, running every 10 to 15 minutes between the park and rides and the Dean E. Smith Center. The shuttles will operate for approximately 45 minutes following the game.
Shuttles drop off and pick up on Bowles Drive in front of the Dean E. Smith Center. Shuttle rides are $5 for a round-trip or $3 for a one-way trip. Rides from the Carolina Coffee Shop are $2 one-way or $4 round-trip.
For additional information on the Tar Heel Express Shuttle, visit CHT's website or call a customer service representative at (919) 969-4900 (press 1).
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Distracted Driving Awareness Campaign kicks off
Chapel Hill Police Department and the UNC-Chapel Hill Department of Public Safety will kick off the Distracted Driving Awareness Campaign on Wednesday, Feb. 15.
The Town of Chapel Hill is considering a proposed ordinance to ban talking on hand-held cellphones and hands-free cellphones—or both—while driving on town streets. In conjunction with the proposed ordinance, the council asked that a program be developed to educate the public about the dangers of driving while talking or texting on cell phones. A public hearing on the proposed ordinance is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 20, in the Council Chamber of Chapel Hill Town Hall.
Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves. Younger, inexperienced drivers younger than 20 years old have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes. In addition, studies show that texting while driving can delay a driver's reaction time just as severely as having a blood alcohol content of a legally drunk driver.
Studies show that there is no difference in the risks between hands-free and hand-held cell phone conversations, both of which can result in inattention blindness, which occurs when the brain isn't seeing what is clearly visible because the drivers' focus is on the phone conversation and not on the road.
There are simple measures drivers can take to minimize distractions in the vehicle:
• Turn off phone or put it out of reach before starting the car.
• Alert callers of inability to take calls when driving by changing voicemail message.
• Make it a point not to call or text anyone who may be driving, such as during the commute to and from work or school, especially parents calling teen drivers.
• If there is a need to make an important call or respond to a text message, pull over to a safe place to do so.
For more information about the Distracted Driving Awareness Campaign, contact Catherine Lazorko, public information officer for the Town of Chapel Hill, at (919) 969-5055 or clazorko@townofchapelhill.org.
The Town of Chapel Hill is considering a proposed ordinance to ban talking on hand-held cellphones and hands-free cellphones—or both—while driving on town streets. In conjunction with the proposed ordinance, the council asked that a program be developed to educate the public about the dangers of driving while talking or texting on cell phones. A public hearing on the proposed ordinance is scheduled for 7 p.m. Monday, Feb. 20, in the Council Chamber of Chapel Hill Town Hall.
Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves. Younger, inexperienced drivers younger than 20 years old have the highest proportion of distraction-related fatal crashes. In addition, studies show that texting while driving can delay a driver's reaction time just as severely as having a blood alcohol content of a legally drunk driver.
Studies show that there is no difference in the risks between hands-free and hand-held cell phone conversations, both of which can result in inattention blindness, which occurs when the brain isn't seeing what is clearly visible because the drivers' focus is on the phone conversation and not on the road.
There are simple measures drivers can take to minimize distractions in the vehicle:
• Turn off phone or put it out of reach before starting the car.
• Alert callers of inability to take calls when driving by changing voicemail message.
• Make it a point not to call or text anyone who may be driving, such as during the commute to and from work or school, especially parents calling teen drivers.
• If there is a need to make an important call or respond to a text message, pull over to a safe place to do so.
For more information about the Distracted Driving Awareness Campaign, contact Catherine Lazorko, public information officer for the Town of Chapel Hill, at (919) 969-5055 or clazorko@townofchapelhill.org.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
NCDOT makes improvements to Chapel Hill rail crossing
The N.C. Department of Transportation’s Rail Division has made crossing safety improvements at an intersection in Chapel Hill.
NCDOT revised crossing signals and installed gates at the intersection of Homestead Road and the Norfolk Southern Railroad (NS) tracks. This $212,519 improvement project was paid for with 90 percent federal funds and 10 percent state funds. Maintenance funding for the project will be divided equally between the state and NS.
Two freight trains a day travel through the railroad crossing at a maximum of 10 miles per hour.
This project is a part of a comprehensive statewide NCDOT program to enhance highway safety by adding or improving signals and gates at public railroad crossings. Automatic warning devices are now in place at more than 2,400 of the 4,100 public at-grade crossings across the state.
NCDOT revised crossing signals and installed gates at the intersection of Homestead Road and the Norfolk Southern Railroad (NS) tracks. This $212,519 improvement project was paid for with 90 percent federal funds and 10 percent state funds. Maintenance funding for the project will be divided equally between the state and NS.
Two freight trains a day travel through the railroad crossing at a maximum of 10 miles per hour.
This project is a part of a comprehensive statewide NCDOT program to enhance highway safety by adding or improving signals and gates at public railroad crossings. Automatic warning devices are now in place at more than 2,400 of the 4,100 public at-grade crossings across the state.
Improvements made to Orange County rail crossing
The N.C. Department of Transportation’s Rail Division has made crossing safety improvements at an intersection in Orange County near Durham.
NCDOT revised crossing signals and installed gates at the intersection of University Station Road and the Norfolk Southern Railroad (NS) tracks. This $210,318 improvement project was paid for with 90 percent federal funds and 10 percent state funds. Maintenance funding for the project will be divided equally between the state and NS.
Two freight trains a day travel through the railroad crossing at a maximum of 10 miles per hour.
This project is part of a comprehensive statewide NCDOT program to enhance highway safety by adding or improving signals and gates at public railroad crossings. Automatic warning devices are now in place at more than 2,400 of North Carolina's over 4,100 public at-grade crossings.
NCDOT revised crossing signals and installed gates at the intersection of University Station Road and the Norfolk Southern Railroad (NS) tracks. This $210,318 improvement project was paid for with 90 percent federal funds and 10 percent state funds. Maintenance funding for the project will be divided equally between the state and NS.
Two freight trains a day travel through the railroad crossing at a maximum of 10 miles per hour.
This project is part of a comprehensive statewide NCDOT program to enhance highway safety by adding or improving signals and gates at public railroad crossings. Automatic warning devices are now in place at more than 2,400 of North Carolina's over 4,100 public at-grade crossings.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Hagan, Bass comment on Federal Public Transportation Act of 2012
U.S. Senator Kay R. Hagan (D—NC) and North Carolina Public Transportation Association President Randy Bass on Friday, Feb. 3, commented on the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee’s approval of the Federal Public Transportation Act of 2012. Hagan, who sits on the Banking Committee, fought to include over $200 million in the bill for important North Carolina infrastructure investments. The two-year reauthorization and reform of federal public transportation programs was passed with unanimous, bipartisan support. The legislation will be included in a broader surface transportation reauthorization bill.
“Maintaining and upgrading our infrastructure is about creating jobs, not just in the construction sector, but in the businesses, plants and factories that rely on our ports, roads, rails and airports to get American-made products to markets around the globe,” said Hagan. “Investing in our transportation infrastructure will enable our economy to grow and keep our country competitive.”
Bass also commended the Senate Banking Committee for approving the Federal Public Transportation Act of 2012.
“Our association represents public transportation systems in all 100 counties in North Carolina," he said. "Despite the challenges we face in these tough economic times, North Carolina’s public transportation infrastructure is a testament to how public and capital investments can create a network of transportation services critical to the economic vitality of our state. We are proud and grateful to have the exceptional leadership of Sen. Hagan and her colleagues on the Banking Committee to keep public transportation a priority of our nation.”
The Federal Public Transportation Act of 2012 provides funding for critical investments in North Carolina’s infrastructure. The bill authorizes $20 million in fiscal years 2012 and 2013 for competitive grants to help communities develop and plan public transportation projects designed to enhance economic development, increase transit ridership, and promote multi-modal connectivity and accessibility.
Few communities exemplify the benefits of Transit-Oriented Development better than Charlotte. Since its opening, there has been $1.4 billion in development adjacent to the LYNX light rail Blue Line. It is anticipated that through 2035, there will be approximately $5 billion in new development adjacent to the Blue Line Extension—a continuation of the LYNX Blue Line to the UNC-Charlotte campus.
The bill streamlines and includes a slight increase in funding for rural transit. In fiscal year 2010, North Carolina received $47.61 million in rural transit grants, more than any other state except California.
The bill also includes $20 million for a New Appalachian Development Public Transportation Assistance Program. The funds are to be distributed across the Appalachian region—including 29 counties in North Carolina—to increase and enhance public transportation opportunities to residents in these areas.
“Maintaining and upgrading our infrastructure is about creating jobs, not just in the construction sector, but in the businesses, plants and factories that rely on our ports, roads, rails and airports to get American-made products to markets around the globe,” said Hagan. “Investing in our transportation infrastructure will enable our economy to grow and keep our country competitive.”
Bass also commended the Senate Banking Committee for approving the Federal Public Transportation Act of 2012.
“Our association represents public transportation systems in all 100 counties in North Carolina," he said. "Despite the challenges we face in these tough economic times, North Carolina’s public transportation infrastructure is a testament to how public and capital investments can create a network of transportation services critical to the economic vitality of our state. We are proud and grateful to have the exceptional leadership of Sen. Hagan and her colleagues on the Banking Committee to keep public transportation a priority of our nation.”
The Federal Public Transportation Act of 2012 provides funding for critical investments in North Carolina’s infrastructure. The bill authorizes $20 million in fiscal years 2012 and 2013 for competitive grants to help communities develop and plan public transportation projects designed to enhance economic development, increase transit ridership, and promote multi-modal connectivity and accessibility.
Few communities exemplify the benefits of Transit-Oriented Development better than Charlotte. Since its opening, there has been $1.4 billion in development adjacent to the LYNX light rail Blue Line. It is anticipated that through 2035, there will be approximately $5 billion in new development adjacent to the Blue Line Extension—a continuation of the LYNX Blue Line to the UNC-Charlotte campus.
The bill streamlines and includes a slight increase in funding for rural transit. In fiscal year 2010, North Carolina received $47.61 million in rural transit grants, more than any other state except California.
The bill also includes $20 million for a New Appalachian Development Public Transportation Assistance Program. The funds are to be distributed across the Appalachian region—including 29 counties in North Carolina—to increase and enhance public transportation opportunities to residents in these areas.
Friday, February 10, 2012
NCDOT awards $2.9 million contract to resurface roads in Orange County
The N.C. Department of Transportation has awarded a contract to resurface nearly eight miles of roadway in Orange County.
The $2.9 million contract was awarded to Rea Contracting, a division of Lane Construction Corp. of Charlotte. Work can begin as early as April 2 and is scheduled to be completed by Aug. 10.
The following roadways will be resurfaced:
• .83 miles of U.S. 15/501 from just east of Erwin Road to the Durham County line;
• 1.6 miles of N.C. 86/Martin Luther King Boulevard from Estes Drive to Franklin Street;
• .47 miles of S. Greensboro Street from Main Street to Rand Street;
• 1.5 miles of N. Greensboro Street/Hillsborough Road from Lorraine Street to Main Street;
• 1.5 miles of Seawell School Road from High School Road to Estes Drive;
• .8 miles of Seawell School Road/High School Road near Homestead Road; and
• 1.2 miles of Orange High School Road from the U.S. 70 Bypass to Miller Road.
Resurfacing these sections of roadway will extend the lifespan of the pavement, improve safety and provide a smoother ride for motorists.
This is one of 31 contracts totaling $85.5 million awarded by Conti for highway and bridge projects across North Carolina. NCDOT awarded the contracts to the lowest bidders, as required by state law. The bids received on the projects awarded came in about 7.5 percent, or about $7 million, below NCDOT estimates. Since Gov. Bev Perdue took office in January of 2009, NCDOT has awarded 472 highway contracts totaling $3.6 billion to ensure that all North Carolinians have access to jobs and educational opportunities.
For more information about funding for infrastructure improvements in North Carolina, as well as other NCDOT projects and activities, visit www.ncdot.gov.
The $2.9 million contract was awarded to Rea Contracting, a division of Lane Construction Corp. of Charlotte. Work can begin as early as April 2 and is scheduled to be completed by Aug. 10.
The following roadways will be resurfaced:
• .83 miles of U.S. 15/501 from just east of Erwin Road to the Durham County line;
• 1.6 miles of N.C. 86/Martin Luther King Boulevard from Estes Drive to Franklin Street;
• .47 miles of S. Greensboro Street from Main Street to Rand Street;
• 1.5 miles of N. Greensboro Street/Hillsborough Road from Lorraine Street to Main Street;
• 1.5 miles of Seawell School Road from High School Road to Estes Drive;
• .8 miles of Seawell School Road/High School Road near Homestead Road; and
• 1.2 miles of Orange High School Road from the U.S. 70 Bypass to Miller Road.
Resurfacing these sections of roadway will extend the lifespan of the pavement, improve safety and provide a smoother ride for motorists.
This is one of 31 contracts totaling $85.5 million awarded by Conti for highway and bridge projects across North Carolina. NCDOT awarded the contracts to the lowest bidders, as required by state law. The bids received on the projects awarded came in about 7.5 percent, or about $7 million, below NCDOT estimates. Since Gov. Bev Perdue took office in January of 2009, NCDOT has awarded 472 highway contracts totaling $3.6 billion to ensure that all North Carolinians have access to jobs and educational opportunities.
For more information about funding for infrastructure improvements in North Carolina, as well as other NCDOT projects and activities, visit www.ncdot.gov.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Tar Heel Express shuttle to UNC vs. Virginia men's basketball game
Chapel Hill Transit will provide Tar Heel Express shuttle service Saturday, Feb. 11, for the North Carolina men's basketball game against Virginia, scheduled for 1 p.m. at the Dean E. Smith Center.
Tar Heel Express shuttles will begin at 11:30 p.m. from the park and rides located at Friday Center, Southern Village, University Mall (next to Dillards) and Jones Ferry. Shuttles will also be available from the Carolina Coffee Shop located at 138 E. Franklin St. (no parking provided). The shuttles will provide continuous and fully accessible service, running every 10 to 15 minutes between the park and rides and the Dean E. Smith Center. The shuttles will operate for approximately 45 minutes following the game.
Shuttles drop off and pick up on Bowles Drive in front of the Dean E. Smith Center. Shuttle rides are $5 for a round-trip or $3 for a one-way trip. Rides from the Carolina Coffee Shop are $2 one-way or $4 round-trip.
For additional information on the Tar Heel Express Shuttle, please visit CHT's website at www.chtransit.org or call a customer service representative at 919-969-4900 (press 1).
Tar Heel Express shuttles will begin at 11:30 p.m. from the park and rides located at Friday Center, Southern Village, University Mall (next to Dillards) and Jones Ferry. Shuttles will also be available from the Carolina Coffee Shop located at 138 E. Franklin St. (no parking provided). The shuttles will provide continuous and fully accessible service, running every 10 to 15 minutes between the park and rides and the Dean E. Smith Center. The shuttles will operate for approximately 45 minutes following the game.
Shuttles drop off and pick up on Bowles Drive in front of the Dean E. Smith Center. Shuttle rides are $5 for a round-trip or $3 for a one-way trip. Rides from the Carolina Coffee Shop are $2 one-way or $4 round-trip.
For additional information on the Tar Heel Express Shuttle, please visit CHT's website at www.chtransit.org or call a customer service representative at 919-969-4900 (press 1).
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Tar Heel Express shuttle to the UNC vs. Duke men's basketball game
Chapel Hill Transit will provide Tar Heel Express shuttle service on Wednesday, Feb. 8, for the North Carolina men's basketball game against Duke, scheduled for 9 p.m. at the Dean E. Smith Center.
Tar Heel Express shuttles will begin at 7:30 p.m. from the park and rides located at Friday Center, Southern Village, University Mall (next to Dillards) and Jones Ferry. Shuttles will also be available from the Carolina Coffee Shop located at 138 E. Franklin St. (no parking provided). The shuttles will provide continuous and fully accessible service, running every 10 to 15 minutes between the park and rides and the Dean E. Smith Center. The shuttles will operate for approximately 45 minutes following the game.
Shuttles drop off and pick up on Bowles Drive in front of the Dean E. Smith Center. Shuttle rides are $5 for a round-trip or $3 for a one-way trip. Rides from the Carolina Coffee Shop are $2 one-way or $4 round-trip.
For additional information on the Tar Heel Express Shuttle, please visit CHT's website or call a customer service representative at (919) 969-4900 (press 1).
Tar Heel Express shuttles will begin at 7:30 p.m. from the park and rides located at Friday Center, Southern Village, University Mall (next to Dillards) and Jones Ferry. Shuttles will also be available from the Carolina Coffee Shop located at 138 E. Franklin St. (no parking provided). The shuttles will provide continuous and fully accessible service, running every 10 to 15 minutes between the park and rides and the Dean E. Smith Center. The shuttles will operate for approximately 45 minutes following the game.
Shuttles drop off and pick up on Bowles Drive in front of the Dean E. Smith Center. Shuttle rides are $5 for a round-trip or $3 for a one-way trip. Rides from the Carolina Coffee Shop are $2 one-way or $4 round-trip.
For additional information on the Tar Heel Express Shuttle, please visit CHT's website or call a customer service representative at (919) 969-4900 (press 1).
Saturday, February 4, 2012
NCDOT to host public meetings for proposed improvements to I-95
The N.C. Department of Transportation will hold a series of public meetings from Tuesday, Feb. 7, through Monday, Feb. 27, in communities along the I-95 corridor to provide information on the proposed plans to improve the interstate through North Carolina.
The informal meetings will take place in Lumberton, Weldon, Rocky Mount, Smithfield, Wilson, Dunn and Fayetteville. Interested citizens may drop by anytime between 4 and 7 p.m. to view project information, maps and the I-95 Corridor Planning and Finance Study Environmental Assessment. NCDOT representatives will be available to answer questions about the project. The opportunity to submit written comments or questions will also be provided.
NCDOT has received final approval from the Federal Highway Administration on the Environmental Assessment of the I-95 Corridor Planning and Finance Study. The study began in 2009 and focuses on improving the safety, connectivity and efficiency of all 182 miles of I-95 through North Carolina.
For a complete list of meeting dates and locations, as well as locations where the Environmental Assessment can be viewed, go to www.driving95.com. Locations to view the assessment are also available by calling 1-877-I95-VIEW.
For more information on the meetings, contact NCDOT Project Development Engineer Kristine O’Connor at (919) 707-6034 or via email at kaoconnor@ncdot.gov. Residents unable to attend a meeting may also submit comments to O’Connor via email or online. Comments may also be mailed (reference I-95 Corridor Planning and Finance Study) to:
Kristine O’Connor
NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, N.C. 27699-1548
Comments will be accepted through March 27.
NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled persons who want to participate in these meetings. Anyone requiring special services should contact O’Connor as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made.
The informal meetings will take place in Lumberton, Weldon, Rocky Mount, Smithfield, Wilson, Dunn and Fayetteville. Interested citizens may drop by anytime between 4 and 7 p.m. to view project information, maps and the I-95 Corridor Planning and Finance Study Environmental Assessment. NCDOT representatives will be available to answer questions about the project. The opportunity to submit written comments or questions will also be provided.
NCDOT has received final approval from the Federal Highway Administration on the Environmental Assessment of the I-95 Corridor Planning and Finance Study. The study began in 2009 and focuses on improving the safety, connectivity and efficiency of all 182 miles of I-95 through North Carolina.
For a complete list of meeting dates and locations, as well as locations where the Environmental Assessment can be viewed, go to www.driving95.com. Locations to view the assessment are also available by calling 1-877-I95-VIEW.
For more information on the meetings, contact NCDOT Project Development Engineer Kristine O’Connor at (919) 707-6034 or via email at kaoconnor@ncdot.gov. Residents unable to attend a meeting may also submit comments to O’Connor via email or online. Comments may also be mailed (reference I-95 Corridor Planning and Finance Study) to:
Kristine O’Connor
NCDOT Project Development and Environmental Analysis Branch
1548 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, N.C. 27699-1548
Comments will be accepted through March 27.
NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled persons who want to participate in these meetings. Anyone requiring special services should contact O’Connor as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made.
Friday, February 3, 2012
Chapel Hill Transit employees to perform the Rosa Parks story
The Rosa Parks story comes to life in the one-act play "Why Should I Move?" scheduled to be performed by Chapel Hill Transit employees at 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, on a central corridor stage at the University Mall.
The free and public performance is being held in conjunction with Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements by black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history. Rosa Parks was a central figure in Black History, as her courageous act of refusing to give up her seat on a Montgomery Alabama bus helped spark the Civil Rights movement.
The play is a reenactment of the day Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Ala., bus. The play is narrated by "old Rosa" talking to the audience 56 years after the event. Chapel Hill Transit bus operator Michele Sykes plays "old Rosa," and Sheila Neville plays "young Rosa." Other Chapel Hill Transit employees reenact the event as Old Rosa tells the story. Key performers include the bus driver, the white passenger who demanded that Rosa move, and the police officer who arrested her.
In addition to the play, an acapella vocal group of Chapel Hill Transit employees will use song to interpret the mood of the events.
The play was performed initially to celebrate the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and their connection to the town's values of respect at an employee celebration held at Hargraves Community Center. The University Mall performance was planned jointly by Chapel Hill Transit and the Chapel Hill Public Library. Special thanks is paid to Kathy Williams of UNC-Chapel Hill Playmakers Theater, who assisted town employees in preparing their roles, and to the theater for providing the costumes.
The free and public performance is being held in conjunction with Black History Month, an annual celebration of achievements by black Americans and a time for recognizing the central role of African Americans in U.S. history. Rosa Parks was a central figure in Black History, as her courageous act of refusing to give up her seat on a Montgomery Alabama bus helped spark the Civil Rights movement.
The play is a reenactment of the day Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a Montgomery, Ala., bus. The play is narrated by "old Rosa" talking to the audience 56 years after the event. Chapel Hill Transit bus operator Michele Sykes plays "old Rosa," and Sheila Neville plays "young Rosa." Other Chapel Hill Transit employees reenact the event as Old Rosa tells the story. Key performers include the bus driver, the white passenger who demanded that Rosa move, and the police officer who arrested her.
In addition to the play, an acapella vocal group of Chapel Hill Transit employees will use song to interpret the mood of the events.
The play was performed initially to celebrate the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and their connection to the town's values of respect at an employee celebration held at Hargraves Community Center. The University Mall performance was planned jointly by Chapel Hill Transit and the Chapel Hill Public Library. Special thanks is paid to Kathy Williams of UNC-Chapel Hill Playmakers Theater, who assisted town employees in preparing their roles, and to the theater for providing the costumes.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
New traffic signal at East Drive and Mason Farm Road
A new traffic signal is scheduled to be installed at the intersection of East Drive and Mason Farm Road in Chapel Hill. The work will take place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. starting Wednesday, Feb. 1 and is expected to be completed by Friday, Feb. 3. Motorists should expect delays.
Interstate 40 West closed at exit 20 in North Carolina near Tennessee border due to rockslide in Tennessee
Due to a rockslide in Cocke County, Tenn., Interstate 40 West is currently closed at exit 20 (U.S. 276) in North Carolina. The rockslide occurred near Mile Marker 451 in Tennessee, approximately 1 mile from the border.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation has awarded an emergency contract to remove debris and unstable rock from I-40 West near the North Carolina border.
Phillips and Jordan, Inc. of Knoxville, Tenn. was awarded the $59,350 contract. The contractor will began work at the rockslide site Thursday, Feb. 2 . Weather permitting, TDOT anticipates reopening the interstate by Monday, Feb. 6.
The N.C. Department of Transportation reminds motorists that Western North Carolina destinations such as Asheville, Cherokee, Waynesville, Maggie Valley and North Carolina sections of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are still accessible via I-40 West without taking a detour. Only interstate travel into Tennessee is affected by the closure of I-40 West near the state line.
The primary detour route for all vehicles is I-240 West in Asheville to I-26 West to I-81 South in Tennessee back to I-40. In addition to the primary signed detour route for all vehicles, non-commercial vehicles can also bypass the I-40 West closure by following U.S. 74 West (via Exit 27) or U.S. 19 South (via Exit 20/U.S. 276 South) to U.S. 441 North, which travels through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park into Tennessee and connects back with I-40.
Motorists are advised to expect increased traffic in Asheville. Message boards with traffic and detour information will be activated.
Updated information is available through the Tennessee Department of Transportation website and on the TDOT SmartWay travel information map.
NCDOT reminds motorists to watch signs for construction information, stay alert and obey the posted speed limit.
For real-time travel information at any time, call 511, visit www.ncdot.gov/travel or follow NCDOT on Twitter. Another option is NCDOT Mobile, a phone-friendly version of the NCDOT website. To access it, type “m.ncdot.gov” into the browser of your smartphone. Then, bookmark it to save for future reference. NCDOT Mobile is compatible with the iPhone, Android and some newer Blackberry phones.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation has awarded an emergency contract to remove debris and unstable rock from I-40 West near the North Carolina border.
Phillips and Jordan, Inc. of Knoxville, Tenn. was awarded the $59,350 contract. The contractor will began work at the rockslide site Thursday, Feb. 2 . Weather permitting, TDOT anticipates reopening the interstate by Monday, Feb. 6.
The N.C. Department of Transportation reminds motorists that Western North Carolina destinations such as Asheville, Cherokee, Waynesville, Maggie Valley and North Carolina sections of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are still accessible via I-40 West without taking a detour. Only interstate travel into Tennessee is affected by the closure of I-40 West near the state line.
The primary detour route for all vehicles is I-240 West in Asheville to I-26 West to I-81 South in Tennessee back to I-40. In addition to the primary signed detour route for all vehicles, non-commercial vehicles can also bypass the I-40 West closure by following U.S. 74 West (via Exit 27) or U.S. 19 South (via Exit 20/U.S. 276 South) to U.S. 441 North, which travels through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park into Tennessee and connects back with I-40.
Motorists are advised to expect increased traffic in Asheville. Message boards with traffic and detour information will be activated.
Updated information is available through the Tennessee Department of Transportation website and on the TDOT SmartWay travel information map.
NCDOT reminds motorists to watch signs for construction information, stay alert and obey the posted speed limit.
For real-time travel information at any time, call 511, visit www.ncdot.gov/travel or follow NCDOT on Twitter. Another option is NCDOT Mobile, a phone-friendly version of the NCDOT website. To access it, type “m.ncdot.gov” into the browser of your smartphone. Then, bookmark it to save for future reference. NCDOT Mobile is compatible with the iPhone, Android and some newer Blackberry phones.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Environmental assessment approved for I-95 improvement
The N.C. Department of Transportation has received final approval of the Environmental Assessment for improvements along Interstate 95 in North Carolina. The EA is part of the I-95 Corridor Planning and Finance Study, which began in 2009 and focuses on improving the safety, connectivity and efficiency of all 182 miles of I-95 through North Carolina.
The following recommendations have been made in the EA:
• Widen I-95 to eight lanes (four lanes in each direction) from exit 31 to exit 81;
• Widen the remaining sections of I-95 to six lanes (three lanes in each direction);
• Make necessary repairs to pavement;
• Raise and rebuild bridges;
• Improve interchanges; and
• Bring I-95 up to current safety standards for interstates.
The total cost for making these improvements is $4.4 billion. Current funding only covers about 10 percent of the costs of these improvements. In order to cover the cost of the improvements, the EA recommends tolling the interstate.
Should the department be granted permission from the Federal Highway Administration to toll the road, NCDOT is preparing a phasing plan for improvements. Phase 1, which includes widening I-95 between exit 31 and exit 81, would begin in 2016. Construction on the remainder of the corridor is proposed to begin in 2019.
The completed EA, including all of the department’s study information to date, is available for viewing online and at various locations along the I-95 corridor. To view the study or find a location, visit www.driving95.com.
Several public hearings will take place regarding the project beginning Feb. 7 and ending Feb. 27. Project data will be presented, and NCDOT staff will be on hand to answer any questions. For information on meetings near you, visit www.driving95.com.
The following recommendations have been made in the EA:
• Widen I-95 to eight lanes (four lanes in each direction) from exit 31 to exit 81;
• Widen the remaining sections of I-95 to six lanes (three lanes in each direction);
• Make necessary repairs to pavement;
• Raise and rebuild bridges;
• Improve interchanges; and
• Bring I-95 up to current safety standards for interstates.
The total cost for making these improvements is $4.4 billion. Current funding only covers about 10 percent of the costs of these improvements. In order to cover the cost of the improvements, the EA recommends tolling the interstate.
Should the department be granted permission from the Federal Highway Administration to toll the road, NCDOT is preparing a phasing plan for improvements. Phase 1, which includes widening I-95 between exit 31 and exit 81, would begin in 2016. Construction on the remainder of the corridor is proposed to begin in 2019.
The completed EA, including all of the department’s study information to date, is available for viewing online and at various locations along the I-95 corridor. To view the study or find a location, visit www.driving95.com.
Several public hearings will take place regarding the project beginning Feb. 7 and ending Feb. 27. Project data will be presented, and NCDOT staff will be on hand to answer any questions. For information on meetings near you, visit www.driving95.com.
Saturday, January 28, 2012
Four-way stop being installed at U.S. 70 Business and Lawrence Road in Hillsborough
On Tuesday, Jan. 31, the N.C. Department of Transportation will modify the intersection of U.S. 70 Business at Lawrence Road in Hillsborough to install a four-way stop.
The work will be done between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Different lanes will be closed as the work progresses.
Stops signs now halt traffic on Lawrence Road. This work will involve adding stop signs on U.S. 70 business as well as pavement markings on both roads.
This intersection is being converted to a four-way stop following an NCDOT investigation that found traffic volumes, crashes and other factors warranted installing the additional stop signs.
If inclement weather affects the area, NCDOT will postpone making the changes until the weather permits.
As drivers approach the intersection, they are advised to follow these right-of-way rules:
• The first vehicle to the intersection has the right of way ahead of any vehicle that has not yet arrived;
• When two or more vehicles reach an intersection at the same time, the vehicle to the right has the right of way;
• The vehicle with the right of way may move straight ahead or, if legal and after signaling, turn left or right;
• When two facing vehicles approach an intersection at the same time, both drivers can move straight ahead or turn right. If one driver is going straight while the other wants to turn left, the driver who wants to turn left must wait. The driver who is traveling straight ahead has the right of way; and
• Even with the right of way, remember to use the appropriate turn signals and be careful to avoid hitting other vehicles and pedestrians.
For information on navigating four-way intersections, consult the North Carolina Driver’s Handbook. To get a copy, call 1-877-DOT-4-YOU or visit the website.
For real-time travel information at any time, call 511, visit online or follow NCDOT on Twitter. Another option is NCDOT Mobile, a phone-friendly version of the NCDOT website. To access it, type “m.ncdot.gov” into the browser of your smartphone. Then, bookmark it to save for future reference. NCDOT Mobile is compatible with the iPhone, Android and some newer Blackberry phones.
The work will be done between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Different lanes will be closed as the work progresses.
Stops signs now halt traffic on Lawrence Road. This work will involve adding stop signs on U.S. 70 business as well as pavement markings on both roads.
This intersection is being converted to a four-way stop following an NCDOT investigation that found traffic volumes, crashes and other factors warranted installing the additional stop signs.
If inclement weather affects the area, NCDOT will postpone making the changes until the weather permits.
As drivers approach the intersection, they are advised to follow these right-of-way rules:
• The first vehicle to the intersection has the right of way ahead of any vehicle that has not yet arrived;
• When two or more vehicles reach an intersection at the same time, the vehicle to the right has the right of way;
• The vehicle with the right of way may move straight ahead or, if legal and after signaling, turn left or right;
• When two facing vehicles approach an intersection at the same time, both drivers can move straight ahead or turn right. If one driver is going straight while the other wants to turn left, the driver who wants to turn left must wait. The driver who is traveling straight ahead has the right of way; and
• Even with the right of way, remember to use the appropriate turn signals and be careful to avoid hitting other vehicles and pedestrians.
For information on navigating four-way intersections, consult the North Carolina Driver’s Handbook. To get a copy, call 1-877-DOT-4-YOU or visit the website.
For real-time travel information at any time, call 511, visit online or follow NCDOT on Twitter. Another option is NCDOT Mobile, a phone-friendly version of the NCDOT website. To access it, type “m.ncdot.gov” into the browser of your smartphone. Then, bookmark it to save for future reference. NCDOT Mobile is compatible with the iPhone, Android and some newer Blackberry phones.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
First charging station for electric vehicles at N.C. rest area opens to public
History was made Wednesday, Jan. 11, as officials from the N.C. Department of Transportation, N.C. Department of Commerce and Praxis Technologies Inc. joined together to cut the ribbon on one of the first electric vehicle charging stations at a state rest area. The ceremony took place at the Alamance County Rest Area on Interstate 40 and I-85 near Burlington, which is now the site of two charging stations. A Nissan Leaf from Michael Jordan Nissan of Durham was on site to provide a demonstration of the charging stations.
“With this project, the state of North Carolina and its partners are helping lay the groundwork for an infrastructure that will support the increasing number of electric vehicles in North Carolina and the nation,” said State Roadside Environmental Engineer Don Lee.
The electric vehicle charging stations, as well as accompanying educational signage, were provided by Raleigh-based Praxis Technologies Inc. through a grant from the N.C. Department of Commerce Green Business Fund Program. In addition to the charging stations at the Alamance County Rest Area, Praxis provided two more charging stations to NCDOT, which were recently installed at the rest area located along I-40 at the I-95 junction near Benson. The charging stations are classified as “Level 2,” which means they can fully charge a vehicle in six to seven hours. There is no cost for using the stations.
The N.C. Department of Commerce grant, which totaled $247,000, has enabled Praxis to place 20 electric vehicle charging stations in key markets around North Carolina over the past eight months.
The Alamance and Johnston County rest areas were strategically chosen as installation sites. They are high-traffic locations that welcome a combined 1 million visitors annually and additionally are located along commuter routes near major metropolitan areas. This may allow motorists the option of charging their vehicle for a short period of time in order to gain enough charge to travel to another charging station location.
NCDOT continues to work with its private partners to investigate the possibility of installing more charging stations at rest areas in the future, including “Level 3,” stations, which are able to fully charge a vehicle in as little as 30 minutes.
“With this project, the state of North Carolina and its partners are helping lay the groundwork for an infrastructure that will support the increasing number of electric vehicles in North Carolina and the nation,” said State Roadside Environmental Engineer Don Lee.
The electric vehicle charging stations, as well as accompanying educational signage, were provided by Raleigh-based Praxis Technologies Inc. through a grant from the N.C. Department of Commerce Green Business Fund Program. In addition to the charging stations at the Alamance County Rest Area, Praxis provided two more charging stations to NCDOT, which were recently installed at the rest area located along I-40 at the I-95 junction near Benson. The charging stations are classified as “Level 2,” which means they can fully charge a vehicle in six to seven hours. There is no cost for using the stations.
The N.C. Department of Commerce grant, which totaled $247,000, has enabled Praxis to place 20 electric vehicle charging stations in key markets around North Carolina over the past eight months.
The Alamance and Johnston County rest areas were strategically chosen as installation sites. They are high-traffic locations that welcome a combined 1 million visitors annually and additionally are located along commuter routes near major metropolitan areas. This may allow motorists the option of charging their vehicle for a short period of time in order to gain enough charge to travel to another charging station location.
NCDOT continues to work with its private partners to investigate the possibility of installing more charging stations at rest areas in the future, including “Level 3,” stations, which are able to fully charge a vehicle in as little as 30 minutes.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Tar Heel Express shuttle to UNC vs. North Carolina State men's basketball game
Chapel Hill Transit will provide Tar Heel Express shuttle service on Thursday, Jan. 26, for the North Carolina men's basketball game against North Carolina State, scheduled for 7 p.m. at the Dean E. Smith Center.
Tar Heel Express shuttles will begin at 5:30 p.m. from the park and rides located at Friday Center, Southern Village, University Mall (next to Dillards) and Jones Ferry. Shuttles will also be available from the Carolina Coffee Shop located at 138 E. Franklin St. (no parking provided). The shuttles will provide continuous and fully accessible service, running every 10 to 15 minutes between the park and rides and the Dean E. Smith Center. The shuttles will operate for approximately 45 minutes following the game.
Shuttles drop off and pick up on Bowles Drive in front of the Dean E. Smith Center. Shuttle rides are $5 for a round-trip or $3 for a one-way trip. Rides from the Carolina Coffee Shop are $2 one-way or $4 round-trip.
For additional information on the Tar Heel Express Shuttle, please visit CHT's website or call a customer service representative at (919) 969-4900 (press 1).
Tar Heel Express shuttles will begin at 5:30 p.m. from the park and rides located at Friday Center, Southern Village, University Mall (next to Dillards) and Jones Ferry. Shuttles will also be available from the Carolina Coffee Shop located at 138 E. Franklin St. (no parking provided). The shuttles will provide continuous and fully accessible service, running every 10 to 15 minutes between the park and rides and the Dean E. Smith Center. The shuttles will operate for approximately 45 minutes following the game.
Shuttles drop off and pick up on Bowles Drive in front of the Dean E. Smith Center. Shuttle rides are $5 for a round-trip or $3 for a one-way trip. Rides from the Carolina Coffee Shop are $2 one-way or $4 round-trip.
For additional information on the Tar Heel Express Shuttle, please visit CHT's website or call a customer service representative at (919) 969-4900 (press 1).
Saturday, January 21, 2012
North Carolina’s interim statewide logistics coordinator named
Transportation Secretary Gene Conti announced Friday, Jan. 20, that Thomas Bradshaw will be North Carolina’s interim statewide logistics coordinator. Bradshaw will assume this new position effective Monday, Jan. 23.
“Tom brings a wealth of real-world experience and knowledge to this position that will greatly benefit the future of North Carolina,” Conti said. “He will help guide our efforts to effectively plan and execute the strategies that will make North Carolina more competitive in the global economy.”
In his role as the statewide logistics director, Bradshaw will oversee and manage all operations of the N.C. Ports and the N.C. Global TransPark. In addition, he will coordinate the operation and development activities of those facilities in relation to other NCDOT transportation infrastructure. Bradshaw will work closely with all NCDOT partners to facilitate a more strategic approach to transportation assets and the needs of existing and future business interests.
“Our state’s transportation assets are critical to the success of business and industry,” Bradshaw said. “By taking a strategic approach to logistics, North Carolina is once again setting the standard for the nation, and I am excited to be a part of this effort.”
NCDOT will begin a nationwide search for a permanent statewide logistics coordinator in the coming months.
Bradshaw served as the City of Raleigh’s mayor from 1971-1973 and later as the North Carolina Secretary of Transportation from 1977 until 1981. He is a former chairman of the Triangle J Council of Governments, the N.C. Environmental Management Commission, and North Carolina Citizens for Business and Industry (N.C. Chamber).
He is a board member of the N.C. Global TransPark Authority (former vice chairman), the N.C. Global Transpark Foundation and a member of the Southern Growth Policies Board. Additionally, he is the founding chairman of the Clarence Lightner Leadership Institute and has served as the director and treasurer of The Institute for Defense and Business at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
“Tom brings a wealth of real-world experience and knowledge to this position that will greatly benefit the future of North Carolina,” Conti said. “He will help guide our efforts to effectively plan and execute the strategies that will make North Carolina more competitive in the global economy.”
In his role as the statewide logistics director, Bradshaw will oversee and manage all operations of the N.C. Ports and the N.C. Global TransPark. In addition, he will coordinate the operation and development activities of those facilities in relation to other NCDOT transportation infrastructure. Bradshaw will work closely with all NCDOT partners to facilitate a more strategic approach to transportation assets and the needs of existing and future business interests.
“Our state’s transportation assets are critical to the success of business and industry,” Bradshaw said. “By taking a strategic approach to logistics, North Carolina is once again setting the standard for the nation, and I am excited to be a part of this effort.”
NCDOT will begin a nationwide search for a permanent statewide logistics coordinator in the coming months.
Bradshaw served as the City of Raleigh’s mayor from 1971-1973 and later as the North Carolina Secretary of Transportation from 1977 until 1981. He is a former chairman of the Triangle J Council of Governments, the N.C. Environmental Management Commission, and North Carolina Citizens for Business and Industry (N.C. Chamber).
He is a board member of the N.C. Global TransPark Authority (former vice chairman), the N.C. Global Transpark Foundation and a member of the Southern Growth Policies Board. Additionally, he is the founding chairman of the Clarence Lightner Leadership Institute and has served as the director and treasurer of The Institute for Defense and Business at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Friday, January 20, 2012
Imaging Center bus stop in Chapel Hill temporarily relocated
Due to construction, the outbound bus stop on Finley Golf Course Road at N.C. 54 (Imaging Center) in Chapel Hill will be temporarily relocated approximately 300 feet south of the current location beginning Monday, Jan. 23, until further notice.
View a map. For additional information, email chtransit@townofchapelhill.org or contact a customer service representative at (919) 969-4900 (press 1).
View a map. For additional information, email chtransit@townofchapelhill.org or contact a customer service representative at (919) 969-4900 (press 1).
More than 2,700 new commuters registered for SharetheRideNC in 2011
Last year, we asked you to consider a different New Year’s resolution for 2011 and try an alternative commute by sharing the ride. More than 2,700 people took that challenge and registered for North Carolina’s free commuter-matching program, SharetheRideNC, bringing the number of commuters registered in the system to 31,326.
SharetheRideNC is a free, statewide, commuter-matching program for drivers interested in joining or starting a carpool or vanpool. Drivers who register online at www.ShareTheRideNC.org input their commute information and instantly receive a list of other drivers who have matching commutes.
As more people move to North Carolina, congestion is a reality in both urban and rural areas. Carpooling and vanpooling are two of several alternatives commuters have to driving their personal cars in addition to rail and public transportation. By joining a carpool or vanpool, commuters can save money and reduce stress as well as remove vehicles from the road. That, in turn, reduces congestion, harmful emissions and the need for more road maintenance.
In addition to finding carpool and vanpool matches, users can also sign up for the Emergency Ride Home program that provides commuters who carpool, vanpool, bike, walk or take transit with a reliable ride home in the event of an emergency.
NCDOT initially provided funding to develop www.ShareTheRideNC.org in 2005 and continues to support the program. The database is administered by Triangle Transit, the provider of regional bus and ridesharing services in the Triangle region.
Since Gov. Bev Perdue took office, NCDOT’s Public Transportation Division has awarded more than $310 million in grant funds to local public transportation systems. These grants enable systems to provide people in all 100 counties access to education, job opportunities and health care.
For more information on grant programs through the Public Transportation Division of NCDOT, as well as transit systems that serve the public throughout the state, visit www.ncdot.gov/nctransit.
SharetheRideNC is a free, statewide, commuter-matching program for drivers interested in joining or starting a carpool or vanpool. Drivers who register online at www.ShareTheRideNC.org input their commute information and instantly receive a list of other drivers who have matching commutes.
As more people move to North Carolina, congestion is a reality in both urban and rural areas. Carpooling and vanpooling are two of several alternatives commuters have to driving their personal cars in addition to rail and public transportation. By joining a carpool or vanpool, commuters can save money and reduce stress as well as remove vehicles from the road. That, in turn, reduces congestion, harmful emissions and the need for more road maintenance.
In addition to finding carpool and vanpool matches, users can also sign up for the Emergency Ride Home program that provides commuters who carpool, vanpool, bike, walk or take transit with a reliable ride home in the event of an emergency.
NCDOT initially provided funding to develop www.ShareTheRideNC.org in 2005 and continues to support the program. The database is administered by Triangle Transit, the provider of regional bus and ridesharing services in the Triangle region.
Since Gov. Bev Perdue took office, NCDOT’s Public Transportation Division has awarded more than $310 million in grant funds to local public transportation systems. These grants enable systems to provide people in all 100 counties access to education, job opportunities and health care.
For more information on grant programs through the Public Transportation Division of NCDOT, as well as transit systems that serve the public throughout the state, visit www.ncdot.gov/nctransit.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)