Agenda - 09-09-2013 - C4 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Interstate Interchange 27 The 1 -85 /US 70 interchange is located within the north /central part of the Study Area. Because interchanges invite development and traffic, it is essential to have requirements in place that address issues of compatibility and function. Access management plans and regulations help to preserve the safety and efficiency of interchange areas as development occurs. NCDOT has long range plans to redesign the 1 -85 /US 70 interchange and designed a concept plan for the redesign in 2009. The conceptual design will impact access management concepts for the Eno EDD area, particularly the potential location of frontage roads and the spacing of access points from interchange ramps. The redesign of the interchange is currently included with a multi -phase project for the widening of I- 85 from 1 -40 to the Durham County line. The projects have been entered in the State's Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for implementation in the future developmental program (post 2020); however, the State's new project Strategic Mobility Formula prioritization process may allow the project to be funded sooner. The Eno EDD — NCDOT Draft Interchange Concept Map follows on page 22. Rail Although rail traffic has decreased considerably in North Carolina, the NCRR /Norfolk Southern (NS) Railway, which is the southerly boundary of the Study Area, is still used for general rail transport and intrastate commuter service provided by Amtrak. Additionally, there is a rail spur line to Chapel Hill in the western portion of the Study Area, east of University Station Road that is still used for deliveries to the UNC campus. There is also a rail spur that is in private use, east of Herman Church Road. The North Carolina Railroad's (NCRR) Long Range Capital Plan identifies a corridor beginning east of Old NC Highway 10 stretching until approximately University Station Road to be double tracked to increase freight capacities. This is currently an unfunded project. The Triangle Transit Authority (TTA) completed final plans for Phase I of its regional commuter rail service in the Triangle and attempted to procure Federal funding to implement Phase I service that would link Raleigh, Cary and Durham. However, due to changes in federal cost - effectiveness guidelines, the project has been shelved for the near future. At this time, the future of Triangle commuter rail service is uncertain due to funding considerations. Historically, University Station was located near the spur rail line that reaches to Chapel Hill. UNC students, faculty, and visitors would have used University Station in their travels to and from campus and other areas. If the Region pursues commuter rail in the future, the spur line to Chapel Hill would likely become an important connector within the rail network. Triangle Transit Authority has identified a recommended location for a future passenger rail stop within the Study Area (west of Greenbriar Drive). 201 Page