Editor’s note: Ask Us is a weekly feature published online Mondays and in print on Tuesdays. We’ll seek to answer your questions about items or trends in Rowan County. Have a question? Email it to askus@salisburypost.com.

By Jessica Pautz

jessica.pautz@salisburypost.com 

A Post reader asked when Newsome Road in Salisbury will be repaved and when bicycle lanes will be added.

The exact completion date is unclear, but construction is expected to begin this year.

“We anticipate advertising the project for bids this summer, with construction to begin late summer or early fall,” said City Engineer Wendy Brindle.

Construction will be in phases to maintain access to nearby properties and is expected to last about a year, Brindle said.

Brindle said the Newsome Road widening has been delayed for several years because of different reasons associated with the use of federal funds.

“However, much has been accomplished to move the project forward, and the city is currently working with (the N.C. Department of Transportation) on final plans and bid documents to allow the project to proceed to the construction phase,” Brindle said.

The project will include widening Newsome Road to add bike lanes, curbing, gutters and a storm drainage system, Brindle said.

A sidewalk also will be added to the west side of the road, Brindle said.

For more information about the repaving of Newsome Road, contact the city Engineering Department at 704-638-5200.