Watauga and Avery counties, North Carolina, October 20, 2025
Contractors for the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) are improving safety along three major mountain corridors in Watauga and Avery counties. By installing better signage and lighting, they aim to enhance visibility for drivers navigating these scenic routes, which are popular with tourists. The project is expected to significantly reduce accidents and improve overall safety for both residents and visitors traversing these beautiful mountain roads.
Boone, NC – NCDOT Enhances Road Safety with New Pavement Markings
The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has initiated a project to improve road safety in Watauga and Avery counties by installing new, highly reflective pavement markings along nearly 30 miles of major highways. This effort aims to enhance visibility for drivers navigating these scenic mountain routes, which are popular among tourists.
Project Details
Contracted to TRP Construction Group for $268,000, the project focuses on three key corridors:
- N.C. 105: From just south of Broadstone Road to U.S. 221 in Linville.
- N.C. 194: Between Hopewell Church Road and U.S. 421/221.
- U.S. 321: From U.S. 421 to the Tennessee state line.
The new pavement markings, made with hot spray thermoplastic, are designed to be more reflective and durable than standard markings. Similar materials were previously applied to a portion of King Street in Boone over the summer.
Implementation Schedule
Work began this week with the removal of existing stripes on N.C. 105. Over the next month, crews will install the new markings, primarily during nighttime hours to minimize traffic disruptions. Weather permitting, the project is expected to be completed within the specified timeframe.
Background
These improvements are part of NCDOT’s ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and infrastructure in the region. The installation of reflective pavement markings is a proven method to increase visibility, especially in areas frequented by tourists who may be unfamiliar with the terrain. By upgrading these markings, NCDOT aims to reduce the risk of accidents and improve the overall driving experience on these mountain routes.
Additional Information
For real-time travel updates and more information, drivers are encouraged to visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media platforms.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the NCDOT’s new pavement markings project in Watauga and Avery counties?
The project aims to improve road safety by installing new, highly reflective pavement markings along nearly 30 miles of major highways, enhancing visibility for drivers on scenic mountain routes popular among tourists.
Which highways are being upgraded with new pavement markings?
The project focuses on three key corridors: N.C. 105, N.C. 194, and U.S. 321 in Watauga and Avery counties.
What materials are being used for the new pavement markings?
The new markings are made with hot spray thermoplastic, designed to be more reflective and durable than standard markings.
When is the project expected to be completed?
The project is expected to be completed within the next month, with work primarily conducted during nighttime hours to minimize traffic disruptions.
Where can drivers find real-time travel updates?
Drivers can visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media platforms for real-time travel updates and more information.
Key Features of the Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Scope | Installation of new, highly reflective pavement markings along nearly 30 miles of major highways in Watauga and Avery counties. |
| Contractor | TRP Construction Group |
| Materials Used | Hot spray thermoplastic for enhanced reflectivity and durability. |
| Work Schedule | Primarily conducted during nighttime hours to minimize traffic disruptions, with completion expected within the next month. |
| Project Cost | $268,000 |
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Author: Construction NC News
The NORTH CAROLINA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionncnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in North Carolina and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of the Carolinas and the North Carolina Home Builders Association, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Womble Bond Dickinson LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
