The Town’s study to develop an overall vision for the Trinity Road corridor is on hold due to recent project developments at NCDOT. The State’s 10-Year Transportation Improvement Plan (STIP) includs funding for the Trinity Road and E. Chatham Street railroad grade separation project. Concept plans are under design.  Construction is currently proposed for 2029.  NCDOT will hold a public meeting this Fall/Winter 2023.  Date is to be determined.   

Staff will continue to follow State’s project and coordinate with NCDOT Rail. Until further information is provided by the State and their representatives, any further analysis will pause as it may be incorporated into NCDOT’s design process.   

Project Background

The Town of Cary initiated an alignment and transportation study for Trinity Road between its current stub near Cary Towne Boulevard and East Chatham Street. This section of Trinity Road is planned to be a four-lane, landscaped median roadway with separated bike lanes and pedestrian facilities. Fenton has constructed the portion of Trinity Road south of Walnut Creek and Quinard Drive.  This future street extension will provide access to the Fenton mixed-use development, Walnut Creek Greenway (a short portion was constructed by Fenton), WakeMed Soccer Park and adjacent undeveloped land.

Project Scope

The scope for the Trinity Road Study includes:

• Identification and review of the pros and cons of alternate road alignments
• Conceptual design of road alignment alternatives that meet the overall vision for the Trinity Road corridor as defined in the Eastern Cary Gateway Special Planning Area
• Planning for the accommodation of future transportation needs and service for all users
• Incorporation of public involvement by working with key stakeholders and the community at large

Stakeholder Meetings

At the study's kick-off, Town staff and VHB, the project consultant, conducted stakeholder meetings with various property owners and groups interested in the Trinity Rd extension between Cary Towne Blvd and E Chatham St. These were information gathering meetings. The project team educated the stakeholders about the study, but the main focus of each meeting was listening to each stakeholder's priorities, needs, and goals for the future.

The State of North Carolina is a primary stakeholder impacted by the Trinity Road extension, currently owning over 181 acres between E. Chatham Street and Cary Towne Blvd. The State sold 92 acres north of Cary Towne Blvd to Columbia Development for the Fenton mixed-use development.  Trinity Road’s location through the proposed Fenton development was identified in the development’s approved rezoning. Between E. Chatham Street and Walnut Creek, the location of the Trinity Road extension will be identified as part of the study. The Town is coordinating with the State to identify their preference on the road’s location since the road solely crosses their land. 

Contact

Luana Deans
Transportation Planning Engineer
Town of Cary - Transportation Department
(919) 467-1533
luana.deans@carync.gov