U.S. Highway 12 - Morristown to Watauga

Project Summary:

This nine and one-half mile project involves the complete reconstruction of U.S. Highway 12 including the replacement of the narrow bridge one mile east of Morristown. This once narrow highway with minimal shoulders, upon completion, will have two 12-foot driving lanes along with 6-foot shoulders. The new grade line will provide travelers with improved sight distance, flatter in-slopes, and wider ditches that will allow for more snow storage capacity.

When construction crews and equipment are present during work hours, the traveling public will be guided through the project with flaggers and a pilot car. Motorists should expect delays of up to 15 minutes. Traffic speeds will also be reduced to 45 mph through the work zone.

Project Timeline:

April 22, 2024 - Aug. 2025

Project Updates:

Aug. 20, 2025:

Beginning the week of Aug. 25, 2025, asphalt concrete surfacing will be placed on the recently completed grading project on U.S. Highway 12 between Morristown and Watauga. In addition, five miles of Highway 12 and approximately one and one-half miles of S.D. Highway 65 east of McIntosh will also be resurfaced with asphalt concrete under the same contract.

Traffic will be controlled with flaggers and pilot car during working hours. Motorists can expect delays up to 15 minutes. The road will be open to normal two-way traffic during non-working hours.