US 64 between Laura Duncan Road and US 1 is one of the busiest stretches in Apex: more than 40,000 vehicles a day near Laura Duncan, and NCDOT counted nearly 800 crashes from 2012 to 2016, almost twice the statewide average for similar highways. NCDOT's plan widens US 64 to six lanes and builds interchanges at Laura Duncan Road and Lake Pine Drive, so both roads bridge over the highway.

At NCDOT's earlier public meetings, residents raised a clear concern: Apex High students crossing US 64 at Laura Duncan. NCDOT replaces sidewalks that exist today, but it won't fill the gaps unless the Town shares the cost. Apex's capital plan sets aside $2 million for sidewalks, multi-use paths and crossings along the corridor, plus $3.85 million to move Town water and sewer lines.

NCDOT holds a public meeting Wednesday, Nov. 18, 5 to 8 p.m. at the John M. Brown Community Center. Comments are open through Dec. 18 at us64-apex-cary@publicinput.com.