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Three-Year Journey Nearly Over, Two Weeks Until U.S. 421 Widening is Complete; Area Businesses Rejoice

By Jesse Wood

The flow of traffic is nice as the white lines sparkle. Photo by Maria Richardson

Three years later, the final touches of the widening of U.S. 421 from New Market Center to Hardin Street are taking place. “The 421 project should be finalized in two weeks,” said Blake Brown, public works director with Town of Boone. “There are still some crosswalks and timing on the lights that have to be done.”

Recently, the road surfacing was completed and sparkling white lines were painted on the pavement. Just like commuters, area businesses have been impacted – to say the least – by the construction efforts, which started July 2009 by Charlotte-based Blythe Development, Inc.

When Brad Wilson, manager of High Country 4 x 4, was asked if he was glad that the end of the widening project was in sight, he responded, “Yes. For sure.” High Country 4 x 4 is located where U.S. 421 and N.C. 105 Extension connect. Wilson added that customers have had difficulty accessing the business parking lot but no longer.

“The flow of traffic is nice,” Wilson said.