Triangle Business Journal Quotes Pete Marino During the Regional Transportation Alliance’s 2017 Breakfast

In the article, NCDOT Secretary: We want to accelerate I-540 project, Triangle Business Journal’s Lauren K. Ohnesorge summarized the Regional Transportation Alliance’s (RTA) 2017 Transportation Breakfast that focused on acceleration of the I-540 project. While the current NCDOT plan has the project moving forward in 2020, discussions at the RTA breakfast pointed toward a possible kick-off in 2018.

Smith Anderson partner and RTA Freeways chair, Pete Marino, participated on the Regional Business Leaders Panel and agreed the I-540 project is a huge priority. He noted I-40 functions as the region’s “main street,” connecting the key parts of our region, and noting that keeping it running smoothly is key to the success of the area.

“One of the key ties and ways to do that… that’s getting 540 connected to 40 in southern Wake County as quickly as possible… so we can help really relieve some of that congestion on I-40 and keep our Main Street, for better or worse, moving as quickly as possible,” said Pete.

Pete also shared the project is an economic development issue as companies considering expanding in North Carolina look at how the state’s government supports fundamental infrastructure projects.

Originally slated for a two-phase project, the most recent NCDOT plan includes moving forward on both segments, enabling construction all the way from 55 to I-40. 

Pete chairs the Construction practice group and co-leads the Real Estate Development practice group. He’s played an integral role as lead counsel for Smith Anderson in some of the most significant projects in the state and region. His practice includes all facets of Construction and Development law arising out of public and private projects.

Triangle Business Journal subscribers can view the full article here.