Capital Boulevard Safety Upgrade

In response to a tragic crash that claimed the lives of five teenagers over two years ago, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is taking proactive measures to enhance safety along Capital Boulevard in Raleigh.

Guardrails Installation

NCDOT contractors have commenced the installation of new guardrails along Capital Boulevard, particularly focusing on the area near the Fairview Road bridge. This initiative comes after Raleigh police reported ten crashes occurring at or near this bridge since Fall 2021.

Past Incident

The impetus for this safety upgrade stems from an October 2021 incident wherein an SUV collided with one of the concrete pillars, resulting in the tragic deaths of five teenagers. The spot where the crash occurred was not previously identified for guardrail installation, according to state and city officials.

Guardrail Projects Approval

Fairview Road, including the site of the recent crash, was included in multiple guardrail projects approved for Wake County by the Secretary of Transportation in June of the previous year.

Safety Measures Effectiveness

While it remains uncertain whether a guardrail would have prevented the 2021 tragedy, NCDOT aims to provide drivers with a visual cue about the road’s curvature at that location. The installation of guardrails is expected to serve as a preventive measure against future accidents.

Victims Remembered

The devastating crash claimed the lives of five young boys, all of whom were students at various educational institutions:

• Kamari Strayhorn, 17, attended South Garner High School.
• Jeremiah Williams, also 17, was a student at Lumberton Senior High School.
• Zymeer Dennis, 14, was enrolled at Wake Forest High School.
• Maikeal Freeman, 13, and Lebron Staton, 14, were both eighth-graders in Raleigh.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety

The installation of guardrails along Capital Boulevard reflects NCDOT’s commitment to enhancing road safety and preventing tragic incidents like the one that occurred in 2021. By prioritizing safety measures, authorities aim to safeguard the lives of motorists and pedestrians alike. For further updates on local news and safety initiatives, download The Local News App.

Source