Rebuilding Beaufort: USDA Utilities Project Update & Road Restoration Progress
USDA Utilities Improvements Project Update
BEAUFORT, N.C. -- The Town of Beaufort would like to thank our residents, business owners, and visitors for their patience as work continues on the USDA Utilities Improvements Project.
We understand that construction can be frustrating at times. Road closures, detours, construction equipment, and temporary disruptions are never easy, and we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.
These improvements are necessary to replace aging infrastructure and provide more reliable services for our community.
Over the past 18-months, crews have made significant progress:
🚽 Sewer System Improvements
- More than 4,000 feet of sewer mains have been replaced.
- More than 9,000 feet of sewer lines have been rehabilitated.
- 47 aging manholes have been replaced.
💧 Water System Improvements
- More than 2 miles of aging water lines have been replaced.
- Undersized water lines in downtown Beaufort have been upgraded.
- 34 fire hydrants have been replaced.
- Many of the old water lines being replaced are 70 to 100 years old.
🌧️ Stormwater Improvements
- More than 3,200 feet of storm drains have been upsized to help reduce flooding.
- 48 drainage structures and catch basins have been replaced to reduce flooding and minimize sources of contamination.
What About the Roads?
We know many people are asking when streets will be fully restored.
Recently, Turner Street and Fulford Street between Front Street and Ann Street have been fully repaired. Additional road restoration work will continue throughout the summer, including improvements to Ann Street.
The Town will also begin a separate street resurfacing project later this year on portions of Broad Street, Belle Air Street, and Live Oak Street. This project will include paving, drainage improvements, curb and gutter repairs, and accessibility upgrades.
Paving is expected to begin in early fall and be completed by late 2026.
NOTE: Some streets still require additional water line replacement work before permanent paving can occur. Work in these areas will take place during the fall and winter months, continuing into early 2027.
Once the remaining utility improvements are complete, those roadways will be paved. The Town's goal is to complete paving on these streets before May 2027.
Summary
The Town of Beaufort’s USDA project represents more than $30 million invested in our water, sewer, stormwater, and roadway infrastructure. While the work has created temporary inconveniences, these improvements will benefit our community for decades to come. Thank you for your patience and support as we work to rebuild historic Beaufort!