FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) — The final segment of the Fayetteville Outer Loop, designated as Interstate 295, has opened to traffic after over 20 years of construction, finalizing a 39-mile corridor aimed at reducing congestion and stimulating economic expansion in North Carolina’s Sandhills area. The ribbon-cutting ceremony, held Tuesday morning, celebrated the completion of the western stretch linking U.S. 401 Business north of Fayetteville to Interstate 95 near the border of Cumberland and Robeson counties. Work on the project began in 1999, with the first portion becoming operational in 2003.
Costing close to $1 billion, the infrastructure initiative wrapped up five months earlier than anticipated. Officials emphasized that the completed interstate now enables seamless travel between Fort Bragg and I-95, enhancing both civilian mobility and military logistics.
Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin described the milestone as evidence of long-term planning and dedication. He noted that beyond easing traffic—a persistent issue as earlier sections of I-295 launched—the route is already catalyzing housing developments and retail growth, contributing to broader regional prosperity.
The new highway is projected to divert significant vehicle volume from overburdened local roads, provide an additional crossing over the Cape Fear River, and improve access to key transportation arteries serving the southern, western, and northern parts of Fayetteville.
Transportation authorities estimate that more than 40,000 vehicles use the corridor daily. For nearby residents, the opening ends years of disruptions caused by ongoing construction, detours, and delays.
Local resident Lewis Bailey traveled to the Strickland Bridge to view the newly accessible roadway firsthand. He recalled the frustration of navigating chaotic traffic patterns and expressed relief that travel times will now shorten. Another community member, Paul Kent, praised the effort and craftsmanship of the construction teams, saying the investment reflects positively on public spending and gives taxpayers tangible value.
With the loop now fully operational, government and transportation officials anticipate sustained regional development, improved military readiness, and stronger incentives for businesses considering relocation or expansion in the state.
— news from ABC11
— News Original —
Fayetteville Outer Loop completed, expected to ease traffic and promote economic growth
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WTVD) — After more than two decades of construction, the final stretch of the Fayetteville Outer Loop, also known as Interstate 295, is officially open, completing a 39-mile road designed to ease traffic congestion and boost economic growth across the Sandhills region. n nState and local leaders gathered Tuesday morning for a ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of the western portion of the highway, which stretches from U.S. 401 Business north of Fayetteville to Interstate 95 near the Cumberland-Robeson county line. Construction on the loop began in 1999, with the first section opening in 2003. n nThe nearly $1 billion project was finished five months ahead of schedule. Officials said the interstate now provides direct, uninterrupted connectivity from Fort Bragg to I-95. n n”It shows commitment. It shows the vision and how important vision is,” Fayetteville Mayor Mitch Colvin said. “Not only will it ease some of the traffic pressures we ‘ve seen as other legs of 295 opened, but the economic activity that is taking place with housing and retail that supports that housing activity. We ‘re looking forward to a great addition to the Sandhills region.” n nThe Outer Loop is expected to pull traffic off strained local roadways, offer an additional crossing of the Cape Fear River, and better connect major routes serving Fayetteville ‘s south, west, and north sides. n nMore than 40,000 vehicles travel the corridor daily, according to transportation officials. n nFor nearby residents, the opening marks the end of years of detours, construction zones, and uncertainty. n n”Some things just take a while to make sure you get it done right,” resident Lewis Bailey said. n nBailey jogged to the Strickland Bridge on Tuesday to see the newly opened stretch for himself. n n”This has been closed for so long, and traffic is all over the place. We were looking at, ‘When is this going to open? ‘ Now that it ‘s open, we can get home a little bit faster,” he said. n nAnother resident, Paul Kent, said the finished highway represents progress for the community. n n”I ‘m glad construction workers took their time on the highway and did what they needed to do,” he said. “It makes me feel good, happy. My taxes are going to something that ‘s worthy.” n nWith the final segment complete, officials say the Outer Loop is positioned to support continued regional growth, strengthen military readiness, and help North Carolina attract and retain new business and industry.