The following is a news release from the N.C. Department of Transportation originally distributed on Jan. 29. Inclement weather forced a delay in the closure of the affected portion of Benson Road. NCDOT has confirmed that the closure now will begin on Monday, Feb. 9.

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The N.C. Department of Transportation will close a portion of N.C. 50 (Benson Road) in Garner for utility work beginning Monday, Feb. 2, weather permitting.

A section of the road from Umstead Lane to Lake Drive will close for about three months while crews install wet utilities. This work is part of the ongoing bridge construction on N.C. 50 over U.S. 70. The road is expected to reopen in May.

During the closure, motorists should use the following detours:

• N.C. 50 southbound: Continue on West Garner Road to Vandora Springs Road and follow the detour signs for U.S. 70 East. 
• N.C. 50 northbound: Utilize Umstead Lane and U.S. 70 West to access Vandora Springs Road and follow the detour signs.

Local access will be maintained for the duration of the closure.

Drivers should use caution when traveling near the area and seek alternate routes to avoid delays.