Design and Construction Report staff writer
A major transportation project aimed at improving road capacity and traffic flow in Moore County, North Carolina ahead of future U.S. Open Championships has moved into its construction phase.
The FlatironDragados-Fred Smith joint venture has completed the final work package for the project, allowing construction to begin on U.S. 1/15-501 and marking the transition from preconstruction activities into the second phase of the project.
It’s the first project is the first construction manager/general contractor (CM/GC) project delivered by FlatironDragados in North Carolina and is being completed for the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT).
The $103.5 million project will widen and upgrade portions of N.C. 5, U.S. 15/501 and U.S. 1 in the Pinehurst, Southern Pines and Aberdeen area. The improvements are designed to enhance safety, reduce congestion and improve transportation infrastructure as the region prepares to host future U.S. Open Championships.
Pinehurst Resort hosted the U.S. Open in 2024 and is scheduled to host the championship again in 2029.
Work will include roadway widening, drainage improvements, utility relocation, intersection upgrades and other infrastructure improvements along the three corridors.
The project includes improvements to:
- U.S. 15/501 from U.S. 1 (North Sandhills Boulevard) to Brucewood Drive
- U.S. 1 from Roseland Road to Old U.S. 1
- N.C. 5 from U.S. 1 to Trotter Drive/Blake Boulevard
Construction will be completed through a phased approach designed to maintain traffic flow and preserve access to nearby businesses and residences throughout the work.
The CM/GC delivery method allows the contractor to work alongside NCDOT during design and preconstruction to identify efficiencies, address potential construction challenges and improve coordination before major construction begins.
FlatironDragados and Fred Smith Company were selected by NCDOT to deliver the project as the region continues preparing for increased visitor traffic associated with future international sporting events.
The roadway improvements are expected to provide long-term transportation benefits beyond the U.S. Open, supporting residents, businesses and visitors throughout Moore County.
