How S.T. Wooten’s teams leveraged skill and innovation to successfully complete a large-scale road widening project.
Upgrading a Critical Section of I-95 in North Carolina
As a major transportation artery along the East Coast, I-95 plays a crucial role in facilitating the movement of goods and commuters. However, a particularly congested stretch between Dunn and Fayetteville, North Carolina, had not seen significant improvements for over 50 years. This outdated infrastructure contributed to frequent traffic bottlenecks and safety concerns.
In late 2019, a large-scale modernization project—valued at over $400 million—was launched to transform this segment of I-95. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) partnered with S.T. Wooten to lead the effort, focusing on expanding the highway and upgrading it to meet modern safety and engineering standards.
A Comprehensive Expansion
The project’s primary goal has been to increase capacity along the corridor, widening the highway from four to eight lanes between Exits 55 and 72. While NCDOT designed the initial three-mile section, S.T. Wooten collaborated with RK&K Engineering to develop and construct the remaining 15 miles.
Beyond expanding the roadway, significant structural improvements have been made. The S.T. Wooten team has constructed 13 new bridges to align with current engineering standards. These include:
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The replacement of nine existing bridges over I-95
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The addition of one new overpass
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Two new bridges replacing outdated culverts
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A single bridge consolidating two older structures
To further enhance infrastructure, the project has incorporated multiple noise barriers. Three walls have already been completed, with a fourth set to begin construction soon.
Stormwater management has also been a key focus. Ten new culverts have been installed, replacing aging drainage systems to improve water flow and reduce roadway flooding. Additionally, five roundabouts have been constructed at crucial interchanges, with two more scheduled to begin soon. These roundabouts will streamline local traffic merging onto I-95 while ensuring smoother movement for the nearly 60,000 vehicles that use the highway daily.
Navigating Challenges
Managing traffic on one of the busiest highways in the country has been one of the project’s biggest hurdles. Unlike traditional construction sites, work zones on I-95 remain active around the clock, with continuous vehicle movement creating noise, wind pressure, and safety challenges for workers.
To minimize disruptions, the project has relied on a phased construction approach and night shifts. Initially, traffic was rerouted through temporarily widened inside lanes while crews focused on building the new outer lanes. Adverse weather conditions, particularly the frequent rainfall in North Carolina’s Sandhills region, have also required teams to adjust schedules and add work shifts to stay on track.
Workforce and Safety Considerations
Labor shortages have been a widespread issue in the construction industry, further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, S.T. Wooten proactively planned for staffing challenges, implementing contingency measures to keep the project moving efficiently.
Safety has remained a top priority throughout construction. Given the high-traffic environment, workers must remain constantly aware of their surroundings. Teams undergo extensive training to ensure they follow best practices for working in active traffic zones.
To further enhance safety for both workers and drivers, the project features a Smart Work Zone system. This advanced setup includes digital sensors, cameras, speed displays, and real-time message boards to monitor traffic flow, alert emergency responders, and provide drivers with up-to-date roadway conditions. Strong communication among crew members has also played a crucial role in maintaining a safe work environment.
Expanding the Project Scope
While the initial scope of the I-95 upgrade is nearly complete, NCDOT has introduced additional enhancements, leading to project extensions. Adjustments to major roundabouts at Exits 58, 61, and 65 were finalized in 2024, including a newly added roundabout at the southbound Exit 58 ramp. Plans for an additional noise barrier near White Plains Drive on northbound I-95 have also been approved.
These updates have shifted the project’s completion timeline from May 2024 to December 2025, ensuring that all improvements align with the highest safety and engineering standards.
A Lasting Impact
The successful completion of the I-95 modernization project highlights the dedication and collaboration of S.T. Wooten, NCDOT, and more than 20 subcontractors. Despite the challenges, the team’s commitment to innovation and problem-solving has kept progress on track.
Once finished, this upgraded stretch of I-95 will provide a safer, more efficient route for travelers. The enhancements will reduce congestion, improve emergency response times, and accommodate growing transportation needs. Ultimately, this project is shaping the future of North Carolina’s infrastructure, leaving a lasting impact for generations to come.
