LEGISLATIVE RESEARCH CENTER
File #: 19-3003    Version: 1
Type: Resolution Status: Passed
File created: 3/4/2019 In control: Economic Development
On agenda: 3/18/2019 Final action: 3/18/2019
Title: Vote on a request to adopt a resolution supporting future interstate upgrade for US Highway 421.
Indexes: Comp Plan Goal 3: Promote a compact growth pattern by developing in and near existing towns, communities, and in designated, well planned, walkable, mixed use centers., Comp Plan Goal 4: Diversify the tax base and generate more high-quality, in-county jobs to reduce dependence on residential property taxes, create economic opportunity and reduce out-commuting.
Attachments: 1. US Hwy 421 Carolina Core Resolution

Title

Vote on a request to adopt a resolution supporting future interstate upgrade for US Highway 421.

 

Abstract

Action Requested: Vote on a request to adopt a resolution supporting future interstate upgrade for US Highway 421.

                     

Introduction & Background: Carolina Core is a collaborative, regional marketing effort promoting a central region in North Carolina for economic development. The corridor follows US Highway 421 from Winston-Salem to Fayetteville and includes four megasites, two of which are in Chatham County and have significant investment from Chatham County. The area has more than 30 colleges and universities and is a competitive place to do business. The Piedmont Triad Partnership is requesting support of a future interstate upgrade for US Highway 421, which runs through western Chatham County. The highway serves employment centers at the Chatham-Siler City Advanced Manufacturing Site, the Central Carolina Business Campus and the towns of Siler City and Goldston. A future interstate designation would improve critical transportation access and be a major advantage in promoting Chatham County’s designated growth areas. The Chatham Economic Development Board of Directors adopted the resolution on February 12, 2019.

                     

Discussion & Analysis:

 

How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: The Chatham-Siler City Advanced Manufacturing Site, Siler City and Goldston are designated as employment centers and are accessed by US Highway 421. Interstate access is a critical factor in site selection for market and workforce access and would improve marketability of these areas and improve safety on the road, which is currently a limited access highway.

                     

Budgetary Impact: N/A

                     

Recommendation: Motion to adopt a resolution supporting future interstate upgrade for US Highway 421.