A busy section of Bragg Boulevard in Fayetteville will be upgraded for pedestrian and vehicular safety.

A contractor will close the median openings and install pedestrian signals and marked crosswalks at five intersections along a 1.7-mile stretch of the boulevard between Skibo and Stamper roads after the N.C. Department of Transportation this week awarded a $6.6 million contract.

The contract also includes resurfacing some of the busier intersections and replacing some of the guardrail in that stretch.

The current median openings will be reconfigured with concrete islands, so drivers on the boulevard can continue to be able to turn left at those locations; however, drivers from the side will be redirected to turn right. The department uses this design, known as a reduced conflict intersection, to decrease the risk of serious crashes. 

Barnhill Contracting Co. of Rocky Mount can begin after July 31 and will have until the fall of 2024 to complete the improvements.

During construction, drivers will encounter intermittent lane closures from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. Drivers should slow down and be aware of workers and equipment in the work zone.