Concord seeks to back NCDOT intersection redesign and enter municipal agreement for Weddington-area improvements

Philip described two linked transportation efforts: an NCDOT 'through-cut' redesign at the Bruton Smith Boulevard and Weddington Road intersection, and a separate city-led application for federal Surface Transportation Program funds to build a roundabout at Rock Hill Church Road and Weddington Road.

On the Bruton Smith Boulevard project, Philip said DOT is prepared to begin design and later construction of a through-cut intersection change that would change phasing, prohibit the straight-through movement on Weddington Road, and re-route some movements to a nearby gateway intersection. He said DOT now requires a resolution from the city indicating the city is "essentially okay with that" to proceed and that the project moved up on the TIP, advancing its timeline.

On the Rock Hill Church Road project, Philip said the city requested $2.4 million in federal funds for a roughly $3 million project with a $600,000 city match already allocated in the CIP. "So that's an 80 20 split again," he said; staff have begun design internally and are conducting surveying and right-of-way identification. Council asked about public reaction to roundabouts and potential right-of-way impacts; Philip said the planned roundabout would be single-lane, would calm traffic, and staff expect limited right-of-way acquisitions but will coordinate with affected property owners. No final council votes are recorded in the work session transcript; staff asked for council blessing to proceed with agreements and separate city projects.