Governor McCrory Breaks Ground on Salem Parkway Project

Press Release

Governor Pat McCrory joined state and local officials at a groundbreaking ceremony today to begin improvements on a 20-mile portion of the historic Business 40 highway between I-40 east of Kernersville and I-40 west of Winston-Salem. The governor also announced that former Business 40 will now be known as U.S. 421/Salem Parkway.

"This project is about so much more than a new name," said Governor McCrory. "It will result in safer, more efficient travel, and it will help support the future of Winston-Salem and the Triad region through improved transportation, economic development and tourism."

In September, the state announced the award of a contract for the Business 40 Improvement Project. The project will streamline portions of the highway through the downtown section of the city, creating a safer, longer-lasting roadway that will help drivers get to their destination more efficiently.

The renaming process began in 2015 when the Winston-Salem City Council and the Kernersville Board of Aldermen appointed local representatives that would make up the Business 40 Naming Committee. The committee evaluated approximately 1,800 suggested names and decided on four finalists to be voted on by the public. More than 9,800 votes were cast via email, online and phone.

"These improvements help fulfill the governor's 25-Year Vision for transportation by strengthening connectivity," Transportation Secretary Nick Tennyson said. "It's also a great example of how transportation can enhance quality of life in our communities."

The dividing line between the town of Winston and Salem was First Street, and Business 40 cuts through the property that was the town of Salem.

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