Construction is underway on the Apex Peakway Southwest Connector project, providing enhanced mobility and connectivity by building a bridge that connects a long-standing gap in the town’s main loop. Designed for both motorists and pedestrians, this project aims to ease traffic flow, improve safety, and provide smoother commutes across town.
Road Closure and Detours: What to Expect
Beginning November 4, and for the first 18 to 24 months of the project, the portion of Apex Peakway from S. Salem Street to Towhee Drive will be closed. Salem Street itself will remain open, except for occasional closures managed with flagging to accommodate bridge construction.
A detour route will guide drivers along Olive Chapel Road, Williams Street (NC 55), and Salem Street. Drivers are directed to follow the posted detour route, rather than detouring through neighborhood streets. Traffic calming measures are in place in the adjacent neighborhood, to discourage detour traffic.
Staff plans to observe traffic patterns in the surrounding areas once the closure is in place. This includes signalized intersections that are maintained by the NCDOT. If problem areas are observed at traffic signals, staff will reach out to NCDOT to request consideration of possible changes to signal timing plans.
The first noticeable activity in the closure area will be the construction of an underground duct bank along S. Salem Street, where telecom and electric lines will be installed by various providers. Meanwhile, the closed segment of Apex Peakway will be reconstructed, eventually sloping up to the height of the bridge that will cross over S. Salem Street and ultimately connect to the portion of the Peakway on the other side of the CSX railroad.
Once those activities are complete, access at S. Salem Street and Apex Peakway will reopen, possibly by the summer of 2026. That access will remain open while work continues for another 6 to 12 months on the total completion of the project.
Project Funding: A Collaborative Effort
The project’s financial foundation is a blend of town and federal resources:
2015 Transportation Bond – This bond funded the design, permitting, and initial preparations, including utility relocations and land acquisition.
2021 Streets and Sidewalks Bond – This more recent bond covers the construction phase, utility work, inspections, and agreements with the rail company CSX.
Federal Funding – A 50% matching grant of up to $12.5 million has been allocated for construction, which helps minimize the project’s total cost to the town.
A Lasting Investment in Apex
Upon its completion, the Apex Peakway Southwest Connector will be a landmark of progress in Apex. By easing traffic congestion and improving safety, the new connector will provide more accessible and efficient transportation for all residents and visitors.
Stay informed of construction progress and road closure updates at www.apexnc.org/peakway.
