The North Carolina Department of Transportation has initiated a comprehensive study to develop a plan for the future of US 64 and NC 49 from Charlotte and Statesville to Raleigh. This plan will assess the mobility and connectivity needs of people and freight to and through the central portion of the state, foster economic growth and development, relieve congestion on I-40 and I-85, and optimize transportation funding.

The goal and objectives for the US 64-NC 49 Corridor Study are consistent with the purpose and goals of the Strategic Highway Corridors initiative. The primary goal of the study, "To develop a transportation system consistent with the Strategic Highway Corridors initiative definition that will serve the mobility needs of people and freight to and through central North Carolina while addressing the environmental and economic development opportunities of the public", is supported by eight specific objectives:

1. Enhance transportation connectivity and mobility
2. Serve as a reliever to I-40 and I-85
3. Improve safety
4. Support regional and local transit plans
5. Support economic development
6. Support local land use plans
7. Optimize costs and benefits to system users and funding agencies
8. Be sensitive to environmental and social factors

Phase 1 of the US 64-NC 49 Corridor is complete. Phase 1 consists of a regional assessment of transportation needs and the evaluation of broad alternative roadway investment strategies to meet those needs as well as satisfy the objectives of a Strategic Highway Corridor. The product of Phase 1 is a corridor vision. Subsequent study phases will transition the corridor vision to location specific alternatives and evaluation.