The first step toward the vision is to implement improvements that are presently in the NCDOT's Transportation Improvement Plan (2004 - 2010). These projects are highlighted in below. They are important from the standpoint that they address the short-term need for improved safety and additional roadway capacity. While projects R-2536 (Asheboro Southern Bypass) and R-3101 (US 1/US 64 improvements through Cary) are consistent with the Freeway Alternative definition in that they are high speed facilities with access allowed only via interchanges, the remaining projects with the exception of R-3111 (Mocksville Bypass) are multi-lane (five-lane and /or four-lane, divided) improvements with no control of access. R-3111 is presently described as a two-lane road on an ultimate four-lane right-of-way with access via signalized intersections. The TIP projects are in various stages of project development. These projects have been be reviewed for opportunities to consolidate driveways and allow for the conversion of signalized intersections to interchanges without disruption to established project delivery dates. Such project enhancements will improve safety and traffic operations, while advancing the facility closer to the vision of a freeway.

TIP #	Route(s)	Division(s)	County(s)	Description	Map(s)
R-2533	NC 49	10	Cabarrus, Stanly	Harrisburg to Yadkin River. Widen to multi-lanes.	Project, Breakdown
R-2535	NC 49	8	Randolph	SR 1174 west of Farmer to proposed Asheboro Southern Bypass (R-2535) west of SR 1193. Widen to a four-lane divided facility.	Breakdown
R-3111	US 64	9	Davie	US 64 east of Mocksville to US 601 west of Mocksville. Bypass of Mocksville on new location.
R-3602	US 64	9	Davidson	US 601 south of Mocksville to US 52 in Lexington. Widen to multi-lanes and upgrade interchange at US 52.
R-2220	US 64	8, 9	Davidson, Randolph	East of I-85 Business in Lexington to US 220 in Asheboro. Widen to four lanes.
R-2536	US 64	8	Randolph	Asheboro Southern Bypass, US 64 West to US 64 East. Four-lane freeway on new location with interchanges at US 220, NC 49 and Zoo access at NC 159. Project Website	Project
U-3101	US 1/64	5	Wake	US 64 to north of SR 1313 (Walnut Street). Rehabilitate pavement, add travel lanes, and modify SR 1313 interchange. Project Website	Project

In addition to proceeding with current NCDOT TIP projects, an access management plan should be developed and implemented to protect the existing four-lane sections of US 64 and NC 49 between the urban areas from the creation of new driveways and signalized intersections. Where possible, the number of existing driveways should be consolidated into a reduced number of better designed access points.