Before Improvements
In the 1950’s, expanding auto/truck traffic led to the construction of the John Lawson Bridge at the end of Broad Street, over the Neuse River, connecting to Bridgeton and creation of the Broad and East Front Street major traffic corridors (Highway 17/70). The widening of Broad Street and elimination of parking along both corridors transformed the tree-lined streets of fine residences and commercial businesses into noisy, psychological barriers between the downtown and residential areas. Businesses suffered, homes were demolished and the downtown continued to decline.
In the late 1990's, the construction of the new Neuse River Bridge and removal of John Lawson Bridge at the end of Broad Street and development of the 2000 Urban Design Plan provided the opportunity to recommend major streetscape improvements to the Broad Street gateway corridor. A transportation analysis and traffic studies concluded it was feasible to narrow Broad Street, re-establish parking on both sides of the street and create a median strip to enhance its appearance and make it safer for pedestrian crossings.
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Major Streetscape Improvements
Beginning in 2007, NC Department of Transportation funded 1.5 miles of major streetscape improvements on Broad Street from First to East Front Street including new street lights, traffic signals, landscaping, parking, bicycle lanes and a median strip. Underground utilities were financed by the City.The Broad Street improvements and replacement of the Alfred A. Cunningham Bridge across the Trent River were completed in 2010, beautifying the two major gateways into the downtown. NCDOT redirected traffic to state roads and Broad and East Front Street are no longer a thoroughfare for highway traffic en-route to other destinations.
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Current Projects