A portion of US 15-501 between Chapel Hill and Pittsboro is currently undergoing work to “improve traffic flow and reduce crashes at a busy intersection,” according to officials.

A release from the North Carolina Department of Transportation says a contractor for Briar Chapel LLC is upgrading the intersection of Andrews Store Road and 15-501. The thoroughfare is a heavily used route every day for commuters coming from Chatham County to work in Chapel Hill.

Officials say the intersection signage is being converted into a “Synchronized Street,” which is aimed at easing congestion and improving safety conditions.

Motorists on 15-501 will now be able to travel through the intersection with less congestion once the work is complete, according to the DOT. Traffic from Andrews Store Road will now turn right onto the highway. Any motorists wanting to travel toward Chapel Hill or cross through that intersection from Andrews Store Road will now have to make a U-turn at a designated area further down 15-501.

The upgrade was required and is being paid for by developers of Briar Chapel – a residential and commercial development currently under construction.

While work began six months ago, according to the DOT, the installation of concrete islands forcing the right turn from Andrews Store Road has been occurring this week. Officials anticipate that installation being completed Friday, weather permitting, with the major construction being completed next week.

Photo via North Carolina Department of Transportation

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