Town awaiting word on road projects

Old Lake Road at U.S. 74-76 will have an overpass when construction is completed on the next phase of the I-74 project.
Old Lake Road at U.S. 74-76 will have an overpass when construction is completed on the next phase of the I-74 project.

Plans are underway for road construction at the Chauncey Town Road and Old Lake Road corridors at Lake Waccamaw. 

The N.C. Department of Transportation plans to put in 180 degree turns, or commonly known as J-turns, at both the Wannish and Chauncey Town Road exits from U.S. 74/76, much like one constructed for the exit to Bolton. 

The original plans drafted for the town began in 2019, and included a service road with a price tag in upwards of $4 million. Those plans were set aside due to wetlands next to the area, and causing slower travel times for first responders.   

Plans are to put in alternate travel lanes while the roadways are under construction, and keep traffic flowing on the main highway through the area. The expense of the road work is unknown at this time, “I have to give those guys credit with the DOT,” said Lake Waccamaw Mayor Daniel Hilburn. “They always do what they can to keep traffic flowing. They try to prevent accidents, and save lives out there. They do a good job.” 

The mayor says the town and Colista Freeman, Planning Senior Project Manager with CALYX Engineers and Consultants, are in constant communication to make sure they making the best decisions for Lake Waccamaw. 
“All of the public comments we have received have been carefully considered.” Freeman said in an email to Mayor Hilburn.The town commissioners continue to seek out the most safe and economical way to get those plans underway.  

About Jefferson Weaver 1928 Articles
Jefferson Weaver is the Managing Editor of Columbus County News and he can be reached at (910) 914-6056, (910) 632-4965, or by email at [email protected].