Project Overview
Final design and development is underway to improve traffic congestion and travel times on Capital Boulevard (U.S. 1) between I-540 in Raleigh and Purnell/Harris roads in Wake Forest.
The proposed project would convert the road from a four-lane, median-divided roadway with partial access control (private driveways and side streets) to a six-lane controlled-access highway with interchanges.
Controlled access means ramps at interchanges would provide entry onto the roadway, cross streets could have overpasses built over them, and private driveways would be prohibited.
The project was studied as a possible toll road from January 2024 to November 2025. That evaluation has ended and the project is proceeding as a traditional, non-tolled roadway.
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2031.
Proposed Segments
A - I-540 to Durant/Perry Creek Roads
B - Durant/Perry Creek Roads to Burlington Mills Road
C - Burlington Mills Road to NC 98 Business/Durham Road
D - NC 90 Business/Durham Road to Purnell/Harris Roads
Design work is in progress for the A and B segments. Design work is not currently in progress for the C and D segments. Design work is anticipated to re-start in late 2026 for the C and D segments.
What's Happening Now?
In June 2026, geotechnical work began on the project. Geotechnical work involves studying soil, rock and groundwater conditions to ensure a construction project is designed and built on a stable and suitable foundation.