Wingate, North Carolina – All five lanes of Highway 74 near Main Street in Wingate were shut down late this morning, disrupting traffic and prompting detours through the area.
According to the Union County Sheriff’s Office, the North Carolina Department of Transportation began closing Highway 74 at approximately 10:30 a.m. after a water main break beneath the roadway caused extensive structural damage. The closure is expected to remain in effect through 6 p.m.
Authorities said the damage occurred under the road surface, requiring crews to secure the area and prevent further hazards. Traffic is being diverted away from the affected stretch, and drivers are encouraged to use the Highway 74 Bypass while repair work is underway.
Local residents should expect delays and changing traffic patterns as detours are put in place. Law enforcement and road crews are actively working in the area, and motorists are urged to watch for posted detour signs and follow directions from traffic control personnel.
The closure affects a key corridor through Wingate, increasing travel times for commuters, students, and workers traveling through eastern Union County during the afternoon hours.
Officials have not said when repairs will be fully completed but advised drivers to allow extra time and avoid the area if possible until lanes reopen. Updates will be provided as conditions change.
The Union County Sheriff’s Office urged residents to share the closure information to help notify others who may be traveling through the area.
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