GREENVILLE – A contractor for the N.C. Department of Transportation will begin paving operations on a stretch of U.S. 264 next week.

Beginning the morning of May 5, crews with Fred Smith Co. will utilize lane closures on U.S. 264 from U.S. 13 to the Pactolus Highway/U.S. 264 intersection.

The operation will be performed during the day with paving to continue into each evening for the section of U.S. 264 between the Fair Grounds and U.S. 13. The intersection of

U.S. 264 and Pactolus Highway will be paved at night near the end of the project.

Paving on this 3-mile stretch is scheduled to take one month for completion, weather permitting.

The work is part of a $3 million contract earned to repave various stretches of roadway in Pitt County.

Motorists are advised to use caution and pay attention to road signage as they approach the work zone.

Drivers are also encouraged to utilize DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media for real-time traffic information.