A Staff Report
On October 16, 2023, the North Carolina Department of Transportation announced the closure of two roadways in the area, Bethel Church Road (SR1106) and the northbound section of US Highway 701. Fortunately, there’s a silver lining amidst these inconveniences – the Elwell Ferry is now open, offering an alternative route and highlighting the importance of this unique transportation option.
1. Bethel Church Road Closure
Bethel Church Road, designated as SR1106, is currently closed as of 12:00 pm on October 16, 2023. The closure is expected to last until 5:00 pm on October 20, 2023. The reason for this closure is a crossline replacement, a necessary measure to ensure the road’s long-term safety and usability. During this period, commuters and travelers who rely on this route will need to find alternative paths.
2. US Highway 701N Closure
The northbound section of US Highway 701 also faced a temporary closure, adding to the transportation challenges in Bladen County. In response to this closure, northbound traffic has been rerouted to the new bridge. It’s essential to note that a WIDE LOAD TRAFFIC RESTRICTION has been imposed during this rerouting, affecting vehicles with oversized loads that may have used this route. This restriction aims to ensure safety during the temporary realignment of traffic.
3. Elwell Ferry: A Lifeline
Amidst these road closures, one lifeline is open for the people of Bladen County – the Elwell Ferry. This historic ferry service has long served as a vital transportation link between the communities of Bladen County and Cumberland County, providing an alternative means of crossing the Cape Fear River.
Elwell Ferry operates from Elwell Ferry Road, which connects to NC Highway 87, providing a convenient route for travelers to cross the river. The ferry service is an iconic part of North Carolina’s transportation history, offering not only a practical mode of transport but also a glimpse into the past, preserving the state’s cultural heritage.
The reopening of the Elwell Ferry during these temporary road closures is a testament to its significance as a resilient and reliable means of transportation. It stands as a reminder that while modern bridges and highways dominate our transportation landscape, traditional methods of crossing waterways, such as ferries, still hold a unique place in connecting communities and ensuring that essential travel can continue, even when faced with road closures and construction.
4. Plan Your Route
For those affected by the closures of Bethel Church Road and the northbound section of US Highway 701, planning an alternative route is essential. Taking advantage of the Elwell Ferry can offer a scenic and unique way to cross the Cape Fear River while avoiding the disruptions caused by roadwork.
While road closures can be a source of inconvenience, they also underscore the importance of maintaining and upgrading our infrastructure to ensure the safety and efficiency of transportation systems. In the case of Bethel Church Road and US Highway 701, these closures represent necessary steps to improve the region’s road network, even if they cause temporary inconvenience.
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