Clayton Bypass Named "N.C. Scenic Byway"

The US 70 Bypass around Clayton has been named a "N.C. Scenic Byway" by the the state Board of Transportation.

State officials said the 10.7-mile stretch of highway, which opened two years ago, helps "to embody the diverse beauty and culture of the Tar Heel State and provide travelers with a safe and interesting alternate route."

"By adding these additional miles to the Byways Program, we are helping protect and promote beautiful travel routes across the state, which is important to our heritage and our economy," said Board of Transportation Chairman Doug Galyon.

The $123 million roadway, which begins at Interstate 40 mile marker 310 in Wake County and runs to the US 70 / US 70 Business split in Johnston County, is credited with significantly reducing the amount of traffic that once clogged the US 70 corridor though town. Accidents are down as a result, and driving around town is much easier.

"We're excited that the state is recognizing something that people around here already know—that the US 70 Bypass around Clayton is a beautiful stretch of road," said Mayor Jody McLeod. "The Bypass has meant a lot to the Town of Clayton by easing the load of traffic, and we're proud that it is adding to the beauty of the area as well."

The Department of Transportation's newly-released 2008 Annual Report describes the Bypass this way: "The corridor is a pleasant relief from the busy Interstate 40 for which it connects. With its rolling hills and distant views, one will experience a unique encounter with much of the undeveloped farmland of Johnston County. The engineered road really enhances the whole experience by providing grades that are consistent with the terrain, allowing very distant views."

Other new routes winning the special designation include the Hanging Rock Byway Extension in Stokes County, the Mill Bridge Scenic Byway Extension in Rowan County, The Uwharrie Scenic Byway Extension in Davidson County, the Colonial Heritage Byway Extensions in Caswell County, the Race to the Dan and the General Greene's Retreat in Rockingham County, the Revolutionary High Rock Road in Guilford and Rockingham Counties, the Indian Heritage Trail Extension in Montgomery County and the Birkhead Wilderness Extension in Randolph County.

The new additions bring the total number of Scenic Byways in North Carolina to 54, amounting to a total of 140 miles.

The Scenic Byways Program, which began in 1990, identifies routes through North Carolina "that have unique, exceptional or outstanding historical, cultural or scenic characteristics."