If you live or work in Garner, you know that there are always traffic changes in the area. You also visit or drive near the White Oak Crossing Shopping Center quite often. The White Oak Crossing Shopping Center offers a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options for people of all ages. There are stores like Kohls and Best Buy as well as restaurants such as Buffalo Wild Wings, Coldstone Creamery, and Logan’s Roadhouse.
One traffic change you should be aware of near the White Oak Crossing Shopping Center is the recent closure of the eastbound U.S. 70 loop onto I-40. Although the ramp will be permanently closed, it will be replaced by an intersection on January 1st 2020. There will be a detour that will run to Greenfield Parkway and turn around to U.S. 70 west to I-40.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation has stated that the new permanent traffic pattern that will offer an intersection for a left-turn from U.S. 70 east onto the ramp for I-40 westbound.
So, why exactly is the ramp being closed? The hope is that its closure will stop vehicles from crisscrossing as they get onto and off I-40 West. Drivers are encouraged to drive slowly and defensively during the closure phase. It’s a good idea to leave early to get to your destination so you can familiarize yourself with the detour and avoid the temptation to speed.
Other tips for safe driving near the White Oak Crossing Shopping Center include making lane changes carefully rather than abruptly, eliminating distractions like food, drink, or cell phones, and of course, never getting behind the wheel if you’re under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While these tips are always important, they are particularly necessary during construction and new traffic changes.
For more updates on traffic changes in Garner, visit the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s website.