NCDOT Traffic Circle Project Update 

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has proposed a redesign of the Pinehurst Traffic Circle, one of the Village’s most recognized and historically significant intersections. The project is intended to address long-term traffic demand, improve safety, and enhance traffic flow while considering the Circle’s historic setting.

👉 View the NCDOT project website to explore the design and learn more.

Village Council Resolutions

On February 24, 2026, the Pinehurst Village Council adopted a resolution expressing opposition to the currently proposed NCDOT redesign and encouraging the state to consider alternative approaches and incremental improvements to the existing circle.

On April 14, 2026, the Council adopted a second resolution reaffirming its opposition to the current design and formally requesting that NCDOT evaluate a revised “turbo trench” concept as a potential alternative.

Both resolutions reflect concerns raised by residents and Council members regarding potential impacts to nearby homes, the historic character of the Circle, and questions about projected traffic volumes and safety outcomes.

👉 View the Village Council resolutions Feb 2026 and April 2026

👉View presentation by Council member John Taylor re: alternative design

Project Status

The Pinehurst Traffic Circle is part of the North Carolina state highway system. As a result, NCDOT is responsible for project planning, design, and construction decisions.

The Village of Pinehurst continues to communicate with NCDOT and share feedback received from residents and the Village Council. NCDOT will determine the final design and timing of the project as it advances through the state’s transportation planning and funding process.

Based on current information from NCDOT, construction is anticipated between the 2029 and 2035 U.S. Open Championships to minimize disruption during major events. The project is also expected to be coordinated with the planned widening of U.S. 15-501 north of the circle.

Timeline from July 2022:

June 28, 2022: NCDOT Presents Traffic Circle Update to Council 

January 26, 2023: Village Council Letter to NCDOT with Recommendations for Improving Traffic Circle

February 24, 2023: Wall Street Journal article regarding the traffic circle. 

January 12, 2024: NCDOT installs delineation posts and curbing around two segments of the Pinehurst Traffic Circle (recommended from Village Council).

May 2, 2024: NCDOT Announces Potential Improvements for Pinehurst Traffic Circle

July 16, 18, and 23, 2024: NCDOT completes three public hearings

July 24, 2024: Village Council Sends Letter to National Park Service Asking for Guidance on the Pinehurst Traffic Circle Improvement Project

August 13, 2024: Village Council Adopts Resolution Opposing the NCDOT Proposal to Replace the Historic Pinehurst Traffic Circle with a Continuous Flow Intersection and Supporting Efforts to Work with NCDOT to Improve the PTC and Find a Constructive Solution

November 26, 2024: Letter from the Village asking for some short-term minor improvements and response from NCDOT Division 8

Letter from Village Council to NCDOT: Jan 5, 2026

Village Council Resolution to NCDOT: Feb 24, 2026