News

Here is a brief weekly update from the RTA business coalition – the voice of the regional business community on transportation.

“Fix 440” construction begins
This week marks the beginning of an important, and probably long overdue, improvement to our regional freeway system. The entirety of the Raleigh beltline freeway has at least three travel lanes per direction – except for the section in west Raleigh south of Wade Avenue . That section also has several substandard interchanges, higher crash rates, and significant daily congestion. Fortunately, a project to make 440 much better and safer is now underway. NCDOT will be upgrading 440 over the next few years – adding lanes, improving interchanges, etc. Of course, given the magnitude of construction, this will be a challenging time for travelers, particularly during rush hour periods and under adverse weather conditions. Let’s be patient, plan ahead, and support the timely completion of this vital improvement to “Fix 440.”

Our multimodal freeway network
I mentioned last week that we are just one year away from our newest Interstate, I-885, which will provide uninterrupted travel between I-40 and I-85 and facilitate better traffic flow to and around downtown Durham. The new connector will also represent an important and growing part of our multimodal freeway system, which is the focus of this week’s blog. We have several regional bus routes that already utilize portions of our freeway system, including I-40, the Triangle Expressway, and – as of this week – I-540 with the launch of the GoTriangle North Raleigh Express. New and enhanced connections will only add to our opportunities for a more resilient and multimodal freeway network.

A 50% increase in “clubbing” is about to occur at RDU
RDU Airport has had a greater than 40% increase in enplanement growth, just since 2011. While that is impressive, our number of airline travel clubs will increase by 50% starting Saturday, when United opens its first new airport club in the US in 15 years at RDU. Lauren Ohnesorge with the TBJ has photos of the new club here. United’s investment in RDU is one more sign of confidence of our major carriers in our airport, our market, and our future potential, and it complements the existing clubs for patrons of American Airlines and Delta Air Lines. 

Thank you for your investment in our regional mobility future as a member of the RTA business coalition! 

Let’s get moving,

Joe

Joe Milazzo II, PE
RTA Executive Director