U.S. Route 52 in North Carolina
Encyclopedia
U.S. Route 52 is an north–south United States highway that runs for 150 miles (241.4 km) from the South Carolina
state line, near McFarlan
, to the Virginia
state line, near Mount Airy
. It serves as a strategic highway through the central North Carolina
Piedmont
.
at Mount Airy
. A bypass around Mount Airy, which carries US 52 is designated as the Andy Griffith Parkway. It goes by Pilot Mountain
one of the most distinctive natural features in North Carolina. Through the Piedmont Triad
region, US 52 is mostly a limited-access freeway. The route joins Interstate 85 Business
into Lexington, North Carolina
and shares Interstate 85
around Salisbury, North Carolina
. The segment of US 52 from Interstate 40
in Winston-Salem, North Carolina
to Lexington is currently being upgraded to Interstate highway standards for the future Interstate 285
corridor. The segment from northern Winston-Salem to just south of Mount Airy is expected to form part of the Interstate 74
corridor through North Carolina.
South of the Triad area after splitting from Interstate 85
in Salisbury, US 52 is typically a two-lane route linking some of the state's smaller cities and towns. Albemarle
is the largest municipality along this segment of US 52 to the South Carolina state line.
/NC 66
from the Virginia
state line, near Mount Airy
, to Lexington
and replacement of US 601
/NC 80
from Lexington
to the South Carolina
state line, near McFarlan
.
In the mid-1930s, US 52 was placed on current routing between Rocky River
-Norwood
and Misenheimer
-Gold Hill
. In Wadesboro
, US 52 was routed along Morgan-Washington-Martin Streets; while in Stokes County
, US 52 was placed on new road between Pilot Mountain
and King
.
In 1941, US 52 was removed from Salisbury Road and placed on its current routing, with US 29/70, south of Lexington
. Between 1945-1949, US 52 was split in downtown Winston-Salem
: northbound using the original Main Street route, southbound using Liberty Street and First Street. In 1949, US 52 was placed on a new bypass east of Pilot Mountain
, leaving US 52A along the main street route.
In 1952, US 52 was placed onto new northern bypass of Lexington
, its old route through became part of US 29A/70A and NC 8. In 1953, US 52 was placed onto new western bypass of Mount Airy
, its old route through became US 52A (today US 52 Business). In either 1956 or 1957, US 52 was placed on its current route through Wadesboro
, via US 74
; also around same time period, US 52 was removed from Old Fancy Gap Road near the Virginia
state line.
From 1960-1972, the next series of changes were in the Winston-Salem
area; starting in 1960 with US 52 was removed from Main Street and onto Old Salem Road. In 1962, US 52 northbound was changed to Main Street, Fifth Street, and Liberty Street. By 1964, US 52 was placed onto new freeway from Winston-Salem
, just south of East-West Expressway, to Pilot Mountain
; this replaced the old route from Stanleyville
to Pilot Mountain
, becoming simply Old US 52. By 1973, US 52 was completed moved onto the completed North-South Expressway in Forsyth County
, completely removing US 52 from all regular roads through the county.
In 1971, US 52 was joined with I-85
, from the Yadkin River
to Salisbury
, leaving the downtown area. In 1980, the freeway from Forsyth County
extended into Davidson County
at Midway
. By 1982, New London
was placed on a short bypass west of town. Between 1985-1987, US 52 was given its current Albemarle
bypass routing; in October, 2010, the routing was rebuilt along its southern portion. Between 1991-1993, US 52 was extended further south onto new freeway from Midway
to Welcome
in north Davidson County
; by 1995, the freeway connected with the Lexington
bypass, completing US 52's move from rural road to freeway from Lexington
to Mount Airy
.
to NC 24/NC 27, in Albemarle
, to four-lanes by around 2015 (STIP: R-2320).
In the more distant future, US 52 between NC 65
, in Winston-Salem
, to I-74
, near Mount Airy
, is planned to be reconstructed to interstate-grade standards (STIP: I-4404).
In Winston-Salem
, a bridge replacement (built in 1964) is currently under construction that crosses over Liberty Street and the Norfolk Southern Railroad Switching Yard. The project includes widening of Liberty Street, ramp improvements along US 52, and install new traffic signals in area. It is estimated at $19 million and to be completed on November 1, 2012.
Upgrades of US 52 to interstate grade, between Interstate 85
and Interstate 40
/US 311
are estimated to cost $8.725 million. Property acquisition will start in June, 2012, with construction scheduled for May, 2013. Once completed, US 52 will be in concurrency with Interstate 285
.
|-
!County
!Location
!Mile
!Exit
!Destinations
!Notes
|-
|rowspan=5|Anson
|Morven
|4
|
|, Chesterfield
|
|-
|rowspan=4|Wadesboro
|style="background:#ddffdd"|12
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|East end of US 74 overlap
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|13.5
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|South end of NC 742 overlap
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|14.5
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|West end of US 74 overlap
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|15
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|North end of NC 742 overlap
|-
|rowspan=7|Stanly
|
|30.5
|
|
|
|-
|rowspan=4|Albemarle
|style="background:#ddffdd"|42
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|East end of NC 24/27/73 overlap
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|42.5
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|West end of NC 24/27 overlap
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|43.5
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|West end of NC 73 overlap
|-
|45
|
|
|
|-
|New London
|50.5
|
|
|
|-
|Richfield
|54
|
|
|
|-
|rowspan=2|Rowan
|Rockwell
|64
|
|
|
|-
|Salisbury
|style="background:#ddffdd"|72
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|, Salisbury Downtown
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|-
!colspan=6|US 52 overlaps with Interstate 85 (exits 76 to 87)
|-
|rowspan=9|Davidson
|rowspan=3|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|83
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|North end of I-85 overlap, south end of I-85 Business overlap; southbound exit and northbound entrance
|-
|84
|84
|
|To Davidson County Airport
|-
|85
|85
|Green Needles Road
|
|-
|rowspan=3|Lexington
|86
|86
|Salisbury Road – Downtown Lexington
|
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|87
|style="background:#ddffdd"|87
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|North end of I-85 Business/US 29 overlap, east end of US 70 overlap; northbound exit and southbound entrance
|-
|89
|89
|
|
|-
|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|92
|style="background:#ddffdd"|92
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|South end of NC 8 overlap
|-
|Welcome
|97
|97
|Old U.S. Hwy 52 – Midway
|
|-
|
|100
|100
|Hickory Tree Road
|
|-
|rowspan=24|Forsyth
|rowspan=18|Winston-Salem
|103
|103
|South Main Street
|
|-
|105
|105
|Clemmonsville Road
|
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|107
|style="background:#ddffdd"|107
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|South end of US 311 overlap
|-
|rowspan=3|108
|108A
|Sprague Street / Waughtown Street
|To University of North Carolina School of the Arts
|-
|108B
|Vargrave Street
|
|-
|108C
|Stadium Drive – Old Salem
|To Winston-Salem State University
|-
|109
|109
|
|Signed as exits 109A (east) and 109B (west)
|-
|rowspan=4|110
|110A
|3rd 4th 5th Streets – Winston-Salem Downtown
|
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|110B
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|North end of US 311 overlap
|-
|110C
|Liberty Street
|
|-
|style="background:#ffdddd"|110D
|style="background:#ffdddd"|Northwest Boulevard
|style="background:#ffdddd"|Southbound exit only
|-
|rowspan=2|111
|111A
|25th Street / 28th Street
|
|-
|style="background:#ffdddd"|111B
|style="background:#ffdddd"|Liberty Street – Smith Reynolds Airport
|style="background:#ffdddd"|Northbound exit only
|-
|112
|112
|Akron Drive – Smith Reynolds Airport
|
|-
|113
|113
|Patterson Avenue
|
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|114
|style="background:#ddffdd"|114
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|North end of NC 8 overlap
|-
|115
|115
|University Parkway
|Signed northbound as exits 115A (north) and 115B (south)
|-
|116
|116
|Hanes Mill Road
|
|-
|rowspan=2|Bethania
|style="background:#ffdddd"|117
|style="background:#ffdddd"|117
|style="background:#ffdddd"|
|style="background:#ffdddd"|Southbound exit and northbound entrance
|-
|style="background:#ffdead"|
|style="background:#ffdead"|
|style="background:#ffdead"|
|style="background:#ffdead"|Proposed Winston-Salem Northern Beltway
(Unfunded)
|-
|rowspan=2|Rural Hall
|118
|118
|
|
|-
|120
|120
|Westinghouse Road
|
|-
|rowspan=2|King
|122
|122
|Moore-RJR Drive
|
|-
|123
|123
|Main Street – King
, Tobaccoville
|
|-
|Stokes
|
|129
|129
|Perch Road – Pinnacle
|
|-
|rowspan=10|Surry
|
|131
|131
|Pilot Knob Park Rd. – Pilot Mountain State Park
|
|-
|Pilot Mountain
|134
|134
|
|-
|rowspan=5|
|135
|135
|Main Street – Pilot Mountain
|
|-
|136
|136
|Cook School Road
|
|-
|140
|140
| – Wytheville
|-
|141
|141
|Holly Springs Church Road
|To Mount Airy/Surry County Airport
|-
|143
|143
|
|
|-
|rowspan=3|Mount Airy
|145
|145
|
|
|-
|146
|146
|, Galax
|
|-
|148
|148
|
|
|-
in northern Surry County, North Carolina
dedicated in honor of actor Andy Griffith
. U.S. Route 52 through this stretch is a limited- controlled-access four-lane divided highway. Approximately 5.5 miles (8.9 km) of the 11 mile (18 km) section passes through the corporate limits of Griffith's hometown of Mount Airy, North Carolina
.
. However, in March 2002, the North Carolina Department of Transportation was approached by a grassroots
group of residents of Mount Airy that felt that a highway dedication for Griffith was long overdue.
The group proposed to rename an 11 mile (18 km) section of the Pilot Mountain Parkway running from the Interstate 74
interchange north to the Virginia
state line to the Andy Griffith Parkway.The Pilot Mountain Parkway designation would remain from the Interstate 74 intersection south through Stokes County.
The group had the support of the dedication from several North Carolina state agency officials that included: Governor Mike Easley
, State Treasurer Richard H. Moore
and NCDOT Division 11 Board Member Sam Erby. Each of these officials played an integral role in expediting the re-naming through the North Carolina Department of Transportation's Road and Bridge Naming Committee. The dedication also had the full support of Andy Griffith. The NCDOT Road and Bridge Naming Committee voted unanimously for the dedication at their July, 2002 meeting in Raleigh, North Carolina
.
Also in attendance were: Griffith’s wife Cindi Griffith, Governor Mike Easley, former University of North Carolina President William C. Friday
, Grandfather Mountain
developer Hugh Morton
, as well as many more State and local officials. More than 3000 Andy Griffith fans also attended to welcome Andy Griffith back to Mount Airy.
South Carolina
South Carolina is a state in the Deep South of the United States that borders Georgia to the south, North Carolina to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Originally part of the Province of Carolina, the Province of South Carolina was one of the 13 colonies that declared independence...
state line, near McFarlan
McFarlan, North Carolina
McFarlan is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 89 at the 2000 census. The town was named after Alan McFarland, a railroad official.-Geography:McFarlan is located at ....
, to the Virginia
Virginia
The Commonwealth of Virginia , is a U.S. state on the Atlantic Coast of the Southern United States. Virginia is nicknamed the "Old Dominion" and sometimes the "Mother of Presidents" after the eight U.S. presidents born there...
state line, near Mount Airy
Mount Airy, North Carolina
Mount Airy is a city in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 10,388.-History:Mount Airy was settled in the 1750s as a stagecoach stop on the road between Winston-Salem and Galax, Virginia. It was named for a nearby plantation...
. It serves as a strategic highway through the central North Carolina
North Carolina
North Carolina is a state located in the southeastern United States. The state borders South Carolina and Georgia to the south, Tennessee to the west and Virginia to the north. North Carolina contains 100 counties. Its capital is Raleigh, and its largest city is Charlotte...
Piedmont
Piedmont (United States)
The Piedmont is a plateau region located in the eastern United States between the Atlantic Coastal Plain and the main Appalachian Mountains, stretching from New Jersey in the north to central Alabama in the south. The Piedmont province is a physiographic province of the larger Appalachian division...
.
Route description
US 52 enters North CarolinaNorth Carolina
North Carolina is a state located in the southeastern United States. The state borders South Carolina and Georgia to the south, Tennessee to the west and Virginia to the north. North Carolina contains 100 counties. Its capital is Raleigh, and its largest city is Charlotte...
at Mount Airy
Mount Airy, North Carolina
Mount Airy is a city in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 10,388.-History:Mount Airy was settled in the 1750s as a stagecoach stop on the road between Winston-Salem and Galax, Virginia. It was named for a nearby plantation...
. A bypass around Mount Airy, which carries US 52 is designated as the Andy Griffith Parkway. It goes by Pilot Mountain
Pilot Mountain (North Carolina)
Pilot Mountain, a metamorphic quartzite monadnock rising to a peak above sea level, is one of the most distinctive natural features in the state of North Carolina. It is a remnant of the ancient chain of Sauratown Mountains. The Saura were the earliest known inhabitants of the region...
one of the most distinctive natural features in North Carolina. Through the Piedmont Triad
Piedmont Triad
The Piedmont Triad, or Triad, is a north-central region of the U.S. state of North Carolina that consists of the area within and surrounding the three major cities of Greensboro, Winston-Salem, and High Point. This close group or "triad" of cities lies in the Piedmont geographical region of the...
region, US 52 is mostly a limited-access freeway. The route joins Interstate 85 Business
Interstate 85 Business
Interstate 85 Business or Business Interstate 85 may refer to:*Interstate 85 Business *Interstate 85 Business...
into Lexington, North Carolina
Lexington, North Carolina
Lexington is the county seat of Davidson County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 19,953. It is located in central North Carolina, twenty miles south of Winston-Salem. Major highways include I-85, U.S. Route 29, U.S. Route 70, U.S. Route 52 ...
and shares Interstate 85
Interstate 85
Interstate 85 is a major interstate highway in the Southeastern United States. Its current southern terminus is at an interchange with Interstate 65 in Montgomery, Alabama; its northern terminus interchanges with Interstate 95 in Petersburg, Virginia, near Richmond...
around Salisbury, North Carolina
Salisbury, North Carolina
Salisbury is a city in Rowan County in North Carolina, a state of the United States of America. The population was 33,663 in the 2010 Census . It is the county seat of Rowan County...
. The segment of US 52 from Interstate 40
Interstate 40
Interstate 40 is the third-longest major east–west Interstate Highway in the United States, after I-90 and I-80. Its western end is at Interstate 15 in Barstow, California; its eastern end is at a concurrency of U.S. Route 117 and North Carolina Highway 132 in Wilmington, North Carolina...
in Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
to Lexington is currently being upgraded to Interstate highway standards for the future Interstate 285
Interstate 285 (North Carolina)
In the U.S. state of North Carolina, Interstate 285 is the designation for a future connector interstate route. When completed, it will connect Interstate 85 to Winston-Salem.-Route description:...
corridor. The segment from northern Winston-Salem to just south of Mount Airy is expected to form part of the Interstate 74
Interstate 74
Interstate 74 is an Interstate Highway in the Midwestern and Southeastern United States. Its western end is at an intersection with Interstate 80 in Davenport, Iowa; the eastern end of its Midwest segment is at an intersection with Interstate 75 in Cincinnati, Ohio...
corridor through North Carolina.
South of the Triad area after splitting from Interstate 85
Interstate 85
Interstate 85 is a major interstate highway in the Southeastern United States. Its current southern terminus is at an interchange with Interstate 65 in Montgomery, Alabama; its northern terminus interchanges with Interstate 95 in Petersburg, Virginia, near Richmond...
in Salisbury, US 52 is typically a two-lane route linking some of the state's smaller cities and towns. Albemarle
Albemarle, North Carolina
Albemarle is the county seat of Stanly County, North Carolina. The population was 15,680 at the 2000 census. It is governed by Mayor Elbert L. "Whit" Whitley, Jr...
is the largest municipality along this segment of US 52 to the South Carolina state line.
History
US 52 was established in 1934 as a replacement of US 121U.S. Route 121
U.S. Route 121 is a proposed highway designated as the Coalfields Expressway, a four lane highway stretching from Beckley, West Virginia to Pound, Virginia, approximately in length. It is designed to connect Interstate 77/Interstate 64 in West Virginia near Beckley to U.S. Route 23 in Wise County,...
/NC 66
North Carolina Highway 66
North Carolina Highway 66 is a highway running from Horneytown Road in Forsyth County to NC 89 in Johnstown.-Major intersections:...
from the Virginia
Virginia
The Commonwealth of Virginia , is a U.S. state on the Atlantic Coast of the Southern United States. Virginia is nicknamed the "Old Dominion" and sometimes the "Mother of Presidents" after the eight U.S. presidents born there...
state line, near Mount Airy
Mount Airy, North Carolina
Mount Airy is a city in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 10,388.-History:Mount Airy was settled in the 1750s as a stagecoach stop on the road between Winston-Salem and Galax, Virginia. It was named for a nearby plantation...
, to Lexington
Lexington, North Carolina
Lexington is the county seat of Davidson County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 19,953. It is located in central North Carolina, twenty miles south of Winston-Salem. Major highways include I-85, U.S. Route 29, U.S. Route 70, U.S. Route 52 ...
and replacement of US 601
U.S. Route 601
Currently, there is one U.S. Route 601 Business loops in North Carolina:* Dobson – It is a route that goes through downtown Dobson, via Main Street.Historically, another business loop had existed in Concord .-See also:...
/NC 80
North Carolina Highway 80
North Carolina route 80 goes from U.S. Route 70, just west of Marion, at 1300' above sea level, to NC Route 226A, a bit west of Bakersville, 2360'. It passes by Lake Tahoma at about 1500'. It crosses the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Eastern Continental Divide at about 3320', and U.S Route 19E at...
from Lexington
Lexington, North Carolina
Lexington is the county seat of Davidson County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 19,953. It is located in central North Carolina, twenty miles south of Winston-Salem. Major highways include I-85, U.S. Route 29, U.S. Route 70, U.S. Route 52 ...
to the South Carolina
South Carolina
South Carolina is a state in the Deep South of the United States that borders Georgia to the south, North Carolina to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. Originally part of the Province of Carolina, the Province of South Carolina was one of the 13 colonies that declared independence...
state line, near McFarlan
McFarlan, North Carolina
McFarlan is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 89 at the 2000 census. The town was named after Alan McFarland, a railroad official.-Geography:McFarlan is located at ....
.
In the mid-1930s, US 52 was placed on current routing between Rocky River
Rocky River (North Carolina)
The Rocky River is a river in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. It begins in Iredell County near Mooresville and flows south into Cabarrus County, where it is the principal waterway in the county. The river continues southeastward to form the line between Stanly, Union, and Anson counties...
-Norwood
Norwood, North Carolina
Norwood is a town in Stanly County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 2,216 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Norwood is located at ....
and Misenheimer
Misenheimer, North Carolina
Misenheimer, is an incorporated village in Stanly County, North Carolina. It is in the southern Piedmont region of North Carolina, near the city of Richfield....
-Gold Hill
Gold Hill, North Carolina
Gold Hill is a small community in southeastern Rowan County, North Carolina near the Cabarrus County line. It is situated near the Yadkin River and is served by U.S. Highway 52 and Old Beatty Ford Road. Gold was found in this small town outside of Salisbury in the 19th century.- References :...
. In Wadesboro
Wadesboro, North Carolina
Wadesboro is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 5,780 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Anson County.-Geography:Wadesboro is located at ....
, US 52 was routed along Morgan-Washington-Martin Streets; while in Stokes County
Stokes County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 44,711 people, 17,579 households, and 13,043 families residing in the county. The population density was 99 people per square mile . There were 19,262 housing units at an average density of 43 per square mile...
, US 52 was placed on new road between Pilot Mountain
Pilot Mountain, North Carolina
Pilot Mountain is a town in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 1,477 at the 2010 census. It is named for the nearby landmark of Pilot Mountain, a distinctive geological formation...
and King
King, North Carolina
King is a town in Stokes County, North Carolina, United States. Portions of the town are also in Forsyth County. The population was 5,952 at the 2000 census.King is also a part of the Piedmont Triad metropolitan area, located northwest of Winston-Salem....
.
In 1941, US 52 was removed from Salisbury Road and placed on its current routing, with US 29/70, south of Lexington
Lexington, North Carolina
Lexington is the county seat of Davidson County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 19,953. It is located in central North Carolina, twenty miles south of Winston-Salem. Major highways include I-85, U.S. Route 29, U.S. Route 70, U.S. Route 52 ...
. Between 1945-1949, US 52 was split in downtown Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
: northbound using the original Main Street route, southbound using Liberty Street and First Street. In 1949, US 52 was placed on a new bypass east of Pilot Mountain
Pilot Mountain, North Carolina
Pilot Mountain is a town in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 1,477 at the 2010 census. It is named for the nearby landmark of Pilot Mountain, a distinctive geological formation...
, leaving US 52A along the main street route.
In 1952, US 52 was placed onto new northern bypass of Lexington
Lexington, North Carolina
Lexington is the county seat of Davidson County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 19,953. It is located in central North Carolina, twenty miles south of Winston-Salem. Major highways include I-85, U.S. Route 29, U.S. Route 70, U.S. Route 52 ...
, its old route through became part of US 29A/70A and NC 8. In 1953, US 52 was placed onto new western bypass of Mount Airy
Mount Airy, North Carolina
Mount Airy is a city in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 10,388.-History:Mount Airy was settled in the 1750s as a stagecoach stop on the road between Winston-Salem and Galax, Virginia. It was named for a nearby plantation...
, its old route through became US 52A (today US 52 Business). In either 1956 or 1957, US 52 was placed on its current route through Wadesboro
Wadesboro, North Carolina
Wadesboro is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 5,780 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Anson County.-Geography:Wadesboro is located at ....
, via US 74
U.S. Route 74
U.S. Route 74 is an east–west United States highway that runs for from Cleveland, Tennessee to Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina.-Tennessee:Established in 1987, US-74 western terminus is exit 20 on I-75 in Cleveland...
; also around same time period, US 52 was removed from Old Fancy Gap Road near the Virginia
Virginia
The Commonwealth of Virginia , is a U.S. state on the Atlantic Coast of the Southern United States. Virginia is nicknamed the "Old Dominion" and sometimes the "Mother of Presidents" after the eight U.S. presidents born there...
state line.
From 1960-1972, the next series of changes were in the Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
area; starting in 1960 with US 52 was removed from Main Street and onto Old Salem Road. In 1962, US 52 northbound was changed to Main Street, Fifth Street, and Liberty Street. By 1964, US 52 was placed onto new freeway from Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
, just south of East-West Expressway, to Pilot Mountain
Pilot Mountain, North Carolina
Pilot Mountain is a town in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 1,477 at the 2010 census. It is named for the nearby landmark of Pilot Mountain, a distinctive geological formation...
; this replaced the old route from Stanleyville
Stanleyville, North Carolina
Stanleyville is an unincorporated community between northern Winston-Salem and Rural Hall in Forsyth County, North Carolina. Most of the community has been annexed by Winston-Salem. Stanleyville is located along North Carolina Highway 66 near the future Interstate 74 interchange with U.S. Highway...
to Pilot Mountain
Pilot Mountain, North Carolina
Pilot Mountain is a town in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 1,477 at the 2010 census. It is named for the nearby landmark of Pilot Mountain, a distinctive geological formation...
, becoming simply Old US 52. By 1973, US 52 was completed moved onto the completed North-South Expressway in Forsyth County
Forsyth County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 306,067 people, 123,851 households, and 81,741 families residing in the county. The population density was 747 people per square mile . There were 133,093 housing units at an average density of 325 per square mile...
, completely removing US 52 from all regular roads through the county.
In 1971, US 52 was joined with I-85
Interstate 85 in North Carolina
In the U.S. state of North Carolina, Interstate 85 scales the state for from the South Carolina border to the Virginia border. As the second-longest interstate in the state , it provides an important link between the cities of Atlanta, Georgia, Charlotte, Greensboro, Richmond, Virginia and...
, from the Yadkin River
Yadkin River
The Yadkin River is one of the longest rivers in North Carolina, flowing . It rises in the northwestern portion of the state near the Blue Ridge Parkway's Thunder Hill Overlook. Several parts of the river are impounded by dams for water, power, and flood control. The river becomes the Pee Dee...
to Salisbury
Salisbury, North Carolina
Salisbury is a city in Rowan County in North Carolina, a state of the United States of America. The population was 33,663 in the 2010 Census . It is the county seat of Rowan County...
, leaving the downtown area. In 1980, the freeway from Forsyth County
Forsyth County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 306,067 people, 123,851 households, and 81,741 families residing in the county. The population density was 747 people per square mile . There were 133,093 housing units at an average density of 325 per square mile...
extended into Davidson County
Davidson County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2010, there were 149,331 people, 58,156 households, and 42,512 families residing in the county. The population density was 267 people per square mile . There were 62,432 housing units at an average density of 113 per square mile...
at Midway
Midway, North Carolina
Midway is an incorporated town in Davidson County, North Carolina located within a township of the same name. The town is where rapper slash producer 9th wonder is from. Midway is situated approximately above sea level, and as of 2006, has a population of 4,399. Midway is part of the Piedmont...
. By 1982, New London
New London, North Carolina
New London is a town in Stanly County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 326 at the 2000 census.-Geography:New London is located at ....
was placed on a short bypass west of town. Between 1985-1987, US 52 was given its current Albemarle
Albemarle, North Carolina
Albemarle is the county seat of Stanly County, North Carolina. The population was 15,680 at the 2000 census. It is governed by Mayor Elbert L. "Whit" Whitley, Jr...
bypass routing; in October, 2010, the routing was rebuilt along its southern portion. Between 1991-1993, US 52 was extended further south onto new freeway from Midway
Midway, North Carolina
Midway is an incorporated town in Davidson County, North Carolina located within a township of the same name. The town is where rapper slash producer 9th wonder is from. Midway is situated approximately above sea level, and as of 2006, has a population of 4,399. Midway is part of the Piedmont...
to Welcome
Welcome, North Carolina
Welcome is a census-designated place in Davidson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 3,538 at the 2000 census. It is nationally known as the home of NASCAR's Richard Childress. The town motto is "Welcome to Welcome, A Friendly Place," as posted on the welcoming sign...
in north Davidson County
Davidson County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2010, there were 149,331 people, 58,156 households, and 42,512 families residing in the county. The population density was 267 people per square mile . There were 62,432 housing units at an average density of 113 per square mile...
; by 1995, the freeway connected with the Lexington
Lexington, North Carolina
Lexington is the county seat of Davidson County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 19,953. It is located in central North Carolina, twenty miles south of Winston-Salem. Major highways include I-85, U.S. Route 29, U.S. Route 70, U.S. Route 52 ...
bypass, completing US 52's move from rural road to freeway from Lexington
Lexington, North Carolina
Lexington is the county seat of Davidson County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 19,953. It is located in central North Carolina, twenty miles south of Winston-Salem. Major highways include I-85, U.S. Route 29, U.S. Route 70, U.S. Route 52 ...
to Mount Airy
Mount Airy, North Carolina
Mount Airy is a city in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 10,388.-History:Mount Airy was settled in the 1750s as a stagecoach stop on the road between Winston-Salem and Galax, Virginia. It was named for a nearby plantation...
.
Future
Currently there is plans to widen US 52 between WadesboroWadesboro, North Carolina
Wadesboro is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 5,780 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Anson County.-Geography:Wadesboro is located at ....
to NC 24/NC 27, in Albemarle
Albemarle, North Carolina
Albemarle is the county seat of Stanly County, North Carolina. The population was 15,680 at the 2000 census. It is governed by Mayor Elbert L. "Whit" Whitley, Jr...
, to four-lanes by around 2015 (STIP: R-2320).
In the more distant future, US 52 between NC 65
North Carolina Highway 65
North Carolina Highway 65 is an east-west highway in North Carolina north of Winston-Salem and Greensboro.N.C. 65's eastern terminus is Reidsville. Heading west, the highway passes through Stokesdale, Walnut Cove, Germanton, and to its western terminus just south of Rural Hall....
, in Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
, to I-74
Interstate 74 in North Carolina
In the U.S. state of North Carolina, Interstate 74 is an Interstate Highway that is partially completed. Currently in four distinct segments in the state; when completed, it will traverse in a southeasterly direction from Virginia to South Carolina, connecting the cities of Winston-Salem, High...
, near Mount Airy
Mount Airy, North Carolina
Mount Airy is a city in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 10,388.-History:Mount Airy was settled in the 1750s as a stagecoach stop on the road between Winston-Salem and Galax, Virginia. It was named for a nearby plantation...
, is planned to be reconstructed to interstate-grade standards (STIP: I-4404).
In Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
, a bridge replacement (built in 1964) is currently under construction that crosses over Liberty Street and the Norfolk Southern Railroad Switching Yard. The project includes widening of Liberty Street, ramp improvements along US 52, and install new traffic signals in area. It is estimated at $19 million and to be completed on November 1, 2012.
Upgrades of US 52 to interstate grade, between Interstate 85
Interstate 85 in North Carolina
In the U.S. state of North Carolina, Interstate 85 scales the state for from the South Carolina border to the Virginia border. As the second-longest interstate in the state , it provides an important link between the cities of Atlanta, Georgia, Charlotte, Greensboro, Richmond, Virginia and...
and Interstate 40
Interstate 40 in North Carolina
Interstate 40 runs through the state of North Carolina from the Tennessee state line in the west to its eastern terminus in Wilmington.-Pigeon River Gorge:...
/US 311
U.S. Route 311
U.S. Route 311 is a United States highway that runs for entirely within the state of North Carolina. On its route from Eden it passes through the cities of Madison, Winston-Salem and High Point. Originally a spur route from US 11 starting in Roanoke, Virginia and ending at Rowland, North Carolina,...
are estimated to cost $8.725 million. Property acquisition will start in June, 2012, with construction scheduled for May, 2013. Once completed, US 52 will be in concurrency with Interstate 285
Interstate 285 (North Carolina)
In the U.S. state of North Carolina, Interstate 285 is the designation for a future connector interstate route. When completed, it will connect Interstate 85 to Winston-Salem.-Route description:...
.
Junction list
{| class="wikitable"|-
!County
!Location
!Mile
!Exit
!Destinations
!Notes
|-
|rowspan=5|Anson
Anson County, North Carolina
-See also:*National Register of Historic Places listings in Anson County, North Carolina-External links:*...
|Morven
Morven, North Carolina
Morven is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 579 at the 2000 census. The town was named after a mountain in Scotland.-Geography:Morven is located at ....
|4
|
|, Chesterfield
Chesterfield, South Carolina
Chesterfield is a town in Chesterfield County, South Carolina, United States. The population was 1472 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Chesterfield County...
|
|-
|rowspan=4|Wadesboro
Wadesboro, North Carolina
Wadesboro is a town in Anson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 5,780 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Anson County.-Geography:Wadesboro is located at ....
|style="background:#ddffdd"|12
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|East end of US 74 overlap
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|13.5
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|South end of NC 742 overlap
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|14.5
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|West end of US 74 overlap
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|15
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|North end of NC 742 overlap
|-
|rowspan=7|Stanly
Stanly County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2010, there were 60,585 people. In 2000 there were 22,223 households, and 16,156 families residing in the county. The population density was 147 people per square mile . There were 24,582 housing units at an average density of 62 per square mile...
|
|30.5
|
|
|
|-
|rowspan=4|Albemarle
Albemarle, North Carolina
Albemarle is the county seat of Stanly County, North Carolina. The population was 15,680 at the 2000 census. It is governed by Mayor Elbert L. "Whit" Whitley, Jr...
|style="background:#ddffdd"|42
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|East end of NC 24/27/73 overlap
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|42.5
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|West end of NC 24/27 overlap
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|43.5
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|West end of NC 73 overlap
|-
|45
|
|
|
|-
|New London
New London, North Carolina
New London is a town in Stanly County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 326 at the 2000 census.-Geography:New London is located at ....
|50.5
|
|
|
|-
|Richfield
Richfield, North Carolina
Richfield is a town in Stanly County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 515 at the 2000 census.- Geography :Richfield is located at ....
|54
|
|
|
|-
|rowspan=2|Rowan
Rowan County, North Carolina
-Demographics and economics:As of the census of 2010, there were 138,428 people, 53,140 households, and 37,058 families residing in the county. The population density was 270.7 people per square mile . There were 60,211 housing units at an average density of 117.7 per square mile...
|Rockwell
Rockwell, North Carolina
Rockwell is a town in Rowan County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 1,971 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Rockwell is located at ....
|64
|
|
|
|-
|Salisbury
Salisbury, North Carolina
Salisbury is a city in Rowan County in North Carolina, a state of the United States of America. The population was 33,663 in the 2010 Census . It is the county seat of Rowan County...
|style="background:#ddffdd"|72
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|, Salisbury Downtown
Salisbury, North Carolina
Salisbury is a city in Rowan County in North Carolina, a state of the United States of America. The population was 33,663 in the 2010 Census . It is the county seat of Rowan County...
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|-
!colspan=6|US 52 overlaps with Interstate 85 (exits 76 to 87)
|-
|rowspan=9|Davidson
Davidson County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2010, there were 149,331 people, 58,156 households, and 42,512 families residing in the county. The population density was 267 people per square mile . There were 62,432 housing units at an average density of 113 per square mile...
|rowspan=3|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|83
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|North end of I-85 overlap, south end of I-85 Business overlap; southbound exit and northbound entrance
|-
|84
|84
|
|To Davidson County Airport
Davidson County Airport
Davidson County Airport is a public airport located three miles southwest of the central business district of Lexington, a city in Davidson County, North Carolina, USA. This general aviation airport covers 75 acres and has one runway....
|-
|85
|85
|Green Needles Road
|
|-
|rowspan=3|Lexington
Lexington, North Carolina
Lexington is the county seat of Davidson County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 19,953. It is located in central North Carolina, twenty miles south of Winston-Salem. Major highways include I-85, U.S. Route 29, U.S. Route 70, U.S. Route 52 ...
|86
|86
|Salisbury Road – Downtown Lexington
Lexington, North Carolina
Lexington is the county seat of Davidson County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 19,953. It is located in central North Carolina, twenty miles south of Winston-Salem. Major highways include I-85, U.S. Route 29, U.S. Route 70, U.S. Route 52 ...
|
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|87
|style="background:#ddffdd"|87
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|North end of I-85 Business/US 29 overlap, east end of US 70 overlap; northbound exit and southbound entrance
|-
|89
|89
|
|
|-
|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|92
|style="background:#ddffdd"|92
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|South end of NC 8 overlap
|-
|Welcome
Welcome, North Carolina
Welcome is a census-designated place in Davidson County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 3,538 at the 2000 census. It is nationally known as the home of NASCAR's Richard Childress. The town motto is "Welcome to Welcome, A Friendly Place," as posted on the welcoming sign...
|97
|97
|Old U.S. Hwy 52 – Midway
Midway, North Carolina
Midway is an incorporated town in Davidson County, North Carolina located within a township of the same name. The town is where rapper slash producer 9th wonder is from. Midway is situated approximately above sea level, and as of 2006, has a population of 4,399. Midway is part of the Piedmont...
|
|-
|
|100
|100
|Hickory Tree Road
|
|-
|rowspan=24|Forsyth
Forsyth County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 306,067 people, 123,851 households, and 81,741 families residing in the county. The population density was 747 people per square mile . There were 133,093 housing units at an average density of 325 per square mile...
|rowspan=18|Winston-Salem
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
|103
|103
|South Main Street
|
|-
|105
|105
|Clemmonsville Road
|
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|107
|style="background:#ddffdd"|107
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|South end of US 311 overlap
|-
|rowspan=3|108
|108A
|Sprague Street / Waughtown Street
|To University of North Carolina School of the Arts
University of North Carolina School of the Arts
The University of North Carolina School of the Arts , formerly the North Carolina School of the Arts, is a public coeducational arts conservatory in Winston-Salem, North Carolina that grants high school, undergraduate and graduate degrees. It is one of the seventeen constituent campuses of the...
|-
|108B
|Vargrave Street
|
|-
|108C
|Stadium Drive – Old Salem
Old Salem
Old Salem is a historic district of Winston-Salem, North Carolina. It features a living history museum that interprets the restored Moravian community. The non-profit organization began its work in 1950, although some private residents had restored buildings earlier...
|To Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem State University , a constituent institution of the University of North Carolina, is a historically black public research university located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States. It is a member school of the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Fund.Winston-Salem State has been...
|-
|109
|109
|
|Signed as exits 109A (east) and 109B (west)
|-
|rowspan=4|110
|110A
|3rd 4th 5th Streets – Winston-Salem Downtown
Winston-Salem, North Carolina
Winston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
|
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|110B
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|North end of US 311 overlap
|-
|110C
|Liberty Street
|
|-
|style="background:#ffdddd"|110D
|style="background:#ffdddd"|Northwest Boulevard
|style="background:#ffdddd"|Southbound exit only
|-
|rowspan=2|111
|111A
|25th Street / 28th Street
|
|-
|style="background:#ffdddd"|111B
|style="background:#ffdddd"|Liberty Street – Smith Reynolds Airport
Smith Reynolds Airport
Smith Reynolds Airport is a public airport located 3 miles northeast of the city of Winston-Salem in Forsyth County, North Carolina, USA. The airport has two runways, and is used primarily for general aviation and flight training, although some passenger operations take place there...
|style="background:#ffdddd"|Northbound exit only
|-
|112
|112
|Akron Drive – Smith Reynolds Airport
Smith Reynolds Airport
Smith Reynolds Airport is a public airport located 3 miles northeast of the city of Winston-Salem in Forsyth County, North Carolina, USA. The airport has two runways, and is used primarily for general aviation and flight training, although some passenger operations take place there...
|
|-
|113
|113
|Patterson Avenue
|
|-
|style="background:#ddffdd"|114
|style="background:#ddffdd"|114
|style="background:#ddffdd"|
|style="background:#ddffdd"|North end of NC 8 overlap
|-
|115
|115
|University Parkway
|Signed northbound as exits 115A (north) and 115B (south)
|-
|116
|116
|Hanes Mill Road
|
|-
|rowspan=2|Bethania
Bethania, North Carolina
Bethania is the oldest municipality in Forsyth County, North Carolina, United States, and was most recently incorporated in 1995, upon the reactivation of the original 1838/1839 town charter...
|style="background:#ffdddd"|117
|style="background:#ffdddd"|117
|style="background:#ffdddd"|
|style="background:#ffdddd"|Southbound exit and northbound entrance
|-
|style="background:#ffdead"|
|style="background:#ffdead"|
|style="background:#ffdead"|
|style="background:#ffdead"|Proposed Winston-Salem Northern Beltway
Winston-Salem Beltway
The Winston-Salem Beltway is a proposed freeway loop around the North Carolina city of Winston-Salem. The northeastern and northwestern segments of this beltway, deemed the Winston-Salem Northern Beltway project, are the parts of the loop currently underway...
(Unfunded)
|-
|rowspan=2|Rural Hall
Rural Hall, North Carolina
Rural Hall is a town in Forsyth County, North Carolina, United States. It is a part of the Piedmont Triad. The population was 2,464 at the 2000 census.-Geography:Rural Hall is located at ....
|118
|118
|
|
|-
|120
|120
|Westinghouse Road
|
|-
|rowspan=2|King
King, North Carolina
King is a town in Stokes County, North Carolina, United States. Portions of the town are also in Forsyth County. The population was 5,952 at the 2000 census.King is also a part of the Piedmont Triad metropolitan area, located northwest of Winston-Salem....
|122
|122
|Moore-RJR Drive
|
|-
|123
|123
|Main Street – King
King, North Carolina
King is a town in Stokes County, North Carolina, United States. Portions of the town are also in Forsyth County. The population was 5,952 at the 2000 census.King is also a part of the Piedmont Triad metropolitan area, located northwest of Winston-Salem....
, Tobaccoville
Tobaccoville, North Carolina
Tobaccoville is a village in Forsyth and Stokes counties in the U.S. state of North Carolina. The population was 2,209 at the 2000 census. While a Tobaccoville post office was established in 1887, the village was not incorporated until 1991 .-Geography:Tobaccoville is located at Tobaccoville is a...
|
|-
|Stokes
Stokes County, North Carolina
-Demographics:As of the census of 2000, there were 44,711 people, 17,579 households, and 13,043 families residing in the county. The population density was 99 people per square mile . There were 19,262 housing units at an average density of 43 per square mile...
|
|129
|129
|Perch Road – Pinnacle
Pinnacle, North Carolina
Pinnacle is an unincorporated community in southwestern Stokes County, North Carolina, United States, approximately five miles SSE of the town of Pilot Mountain, near Pilot Mountain State Park.-History:...
|
|-
|rowspan=10|Surry
Surry County, North Carolina
Surry County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. As of 2010, the population was 73,673. Its county seat is Dobson.- History :The county was formed in 1771 from Rowan County...
|
|131
|131
|Pilot Knob Park Rd. – Pilot Mountain State Park
Pilot Mountain State Park
Pilot Mountain State Park is a North Carolina state park in Surry and Yadkin Counties, North Carolina in the United States. Located near Pinnacle, North Carolina on highway US 52, it covers 3,703 acres and includes the distinctive 2,241 foot peak of Pilot Mountain.-History:The Saura, a...
|
|-
|Pilot Mountain
Pilot Mountain, North Carolina
Pilot Mountain is a town in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 1,477 at the 2010 census. It is named for the nearby landmark of Pilot Mountain, a distinctive geological formation...
|134
|134
|
|-
|rowspan=5|
|135
|135
|Main Street – Pilot Mountain
Pilot Mountain, North Carolina
Pilot Mountain is a town in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 1,477 at the 2010 census. It is named for the nearby landmark of Pilot Mountain, a distinctive geological formation...
|
|-
|136
|136
|Cook School Road
|
|-
|140
|140
| – Wytheville
Wytheville, Virginia
Wytheville is a town in Wythe County, Virginia, United States. The population was 8,211 at the 2010 census. It is the county seat of Wythe County. The town is home to a Chautauqua Festival, held the third weekend in June every year since 1985...
|-
|141
|141
|Holly Springs Church Road
|To Mount Airy/Surry County Airport
Mount Airy/Surry County Airport
Mount Airy/Surry County Airport is a public airport located near the city of Mount Airy in Surry County, North Carolina, USA.- External links :*NCDOT Airport Information:...
|-
|143
|143
|
|
|-
|rowspan=3|Mount Airy
Mount Airy, North Carolina
Mount Airy is a city in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 10,388.-History:Mount Airy was settled in the 1750s as a stagecoach stop on the road between Winston-Salem and Galax, Virginia. It was named for a nearby plantation...
|145
|145
|
|
|-
|146
|146
|, Galax
Galax, Virginia
Galax is an independent city in the southwestern part of the Commonwealth of Virginia. It is bounded to the northeast by Carroll County and to the southwest by Grayson County. The population was 7,042 as of 2010...
|
|-
|148
|148
|
|
|-
Alternate names
Though the highway is commonly known as "Highway 52" or "U.S. 52" throughout the state, the highway does have other known names it uses locally in areas.- George S. Coble Memorial Highway - Official North Carolina name of US 52, from Old US 52 at the Davidson-Forsyth County line to US 29/70 south of Lexington.
- Gold Memorial Freeway - Official North Carolina name of US 52 within Winston-SalemWinston-Salem, North CarolinaWinston-Salem is a city in the U.S. state of North Carolina, with a 2010 population of 229,617. Winston-Salem is the county seat and largest city of Forsyth County and the fourth-largest city in the state. Winston-Salem is the second largest municipality in the Piedmont Triad region and is home to...
city limits. - J.D. Goins Memorial Highway - Official North Carolina name of US 52, from AlbemarleAlbemarle, North CarolinaAlbemarle is the county seat of Stanly County, North Carolina. The population was 15,680 at the 2000 census. It is governed by Mayor Elbert L. "Whit" Whitley, Jr...
to NC 740. - Pilot Mountain Parkway - Official North Carolina name of US 52, it originally went from KingKing, North CarolinaKing is a town in Stokes County, North Carolina, United States. Portions of the town are also in Forsyth County. The population was 5,952 at the 2000 census.King is also a part of the Piedmont Triad metropolitan area, located northwest of Winston-Salem....
to the VirginiaVirginiaThe Commonwealth of Virginia , is a U.S. state on the Atlantic Coast of the Southern United States. Virginia is nicknamed the "Old Dominion" and sometimes the "Mother of Presidents" after the eight U.S. presidents born there...
state line. In 2002, it was shorten to the I-74Interstate 74 in North CarolinaIn the U.S. state of North Carolina, Interstate 74 is an Interstate Highway that is partially completed. Currently in four distinct segments in the state; when completed, it will traverse in a southeasterly direction from Virginia to South Carolina, connecting the cities of Winston-Salem, High...
interchange south of Mount AiryMount Airy, North CarolinaMount Airy is a city in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 10,388.-History:Mount Airy was settled in the 1750s as a stagecoach stop on the road between Winston-Salem and Galax, Virginia. It was named for a nearby plantation...
, for the Andy Griffith Parkway.
Andy Griffith Parkway
The Andy Griffith Parkway is an 11 mile (18 km) section of U.S. Route 52U.S. Route 52
U.S. Route 52 is a United States highway that runs across the northern, eastern and southeastern regions of the United States. Contrary to most other even-numbered U.S...
in northern Surry County, North Carolina
Surry County, North Carolina
Surry County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. As of 2010, the population was 73,673. Its county seat is Dobson.- History :The county was formed in 1771 from Rowan County...
dedicated in honor of actor Andy Griffith
Andy Griffith
Andy Samuel Griffith is an American actor, director, producer, Grammy Award-winning Southern-gospel singer, and writer. He gained prominence in the starring role in director Elia Kazan's epic film A Face in the Crowd before he became better known for his television roles, playing the lead...
. U.S. Route 52 through this stretch is a limited- controlled-access four-lane divided highway. Approximately 5.5 miles (8.9 km) of the 11 mile (18 km) section passes through the corporate limits of Griffith's hometown of Mount Airy, North Carolina
Mount Airy, North Carolina
Mount Airy is a city in Surry County, North Carolina, United States. As of the 2010 census, the city population was 10,388.-History:Mount Airy was settled in the 1750s as a stagecoach stop on the road between Winston-Salem and Galax, Virginia. It was named for a nearby plantation...
.
Background
Due to its close proximity to Pilot Mountain State Park, in 1977 U.S. Route 52 through Surry County and Stokes County was dedicated as the Pilot Mountain Parkway by the North Carolina Department of TransportationNorth Carolina Department of Transportation
The North Carolina Department of Transportation is responsible for building, repairing, and operating highways, bridges, and other modes of transportation, including ferries in the U.S. state of North Carolina.-History:...
. However, in March 2002, the North Carolina Department of Transportation was approached by a grassroots
Grassroots
A grassroots movement is one driven by the politics of a community. The term implies that the creation of the movement and the group supporting it are natural and spontaneous, highlighting the differences between this and a movement that is orchestrated by traditional power structures...
group of residents of Mount Airy that felt that a highway dedication for Griffith was long overdue.
The group proposed to rename an 11 mile (18 km) section of the Pilot Mountain Parkway running from the Interstate 74
Interstate 74
Interstate 74 is an Interstate Highway in the Midwestern and Southeastern United States. Its western end is at an intersection with Interstate 80 in Davenport, Iowa; the eastern end of its Midwest segment is at an intersection with Interstate 75 in Cincinnati, Ohio...
interchange north to the Virginia
Virginia
The Commonwealth of Virginia , is a U.S. state on the Atlantic Coast of the Southern United States. Virginia is nicknamed the "Old Dominion" and sometimes the "Mother of Presidents" after the eight U.S. presidents born there...
state line to the Andy Griffith Parkway.The Pilot Mountain Parkway designation would remain from the Interstate 74 intersection south through Stokes County.
The group had the support of the dedication from several North Carolina state agency officials that included: Governor Mike Easley
Mike Easley
Michael Francis "Mike" Easley is an American politician who served as the 72nd Governor of the U.S. state of North Carolina, from 2001 to 2009. He is member of the North Carolina Democratic Party and became the first North Carolina governor to admit to a felony in a deal that halted a lengthy...
, State Treasurer Richard H. Moore
Richard H. Moore
Richard Hancock Moore was the North Carolina State Treasurer from 2001–2009. He first elected to that post in 2000 and re-elected in 2004.-Career:...
and NCDOT Division 11 Board Member Sam Erby. Each of these officials played an integral role in expediting the re-naming through the North Carolina Department of Transportation's Road and Bridge Naming Committee. The dedication also had the full support of Andy Griffith. The NCDOT Road and Bridge Naming Committee voted unanimously for the dedication at their July, 2002 meeting in Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh, North Carolina
Raleigh is the capital and the second largest city in the state of North Carolina as well as the seat of Wake County. Raleigh is known as the "City of Oaks" for its many oak trees. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city's 2010 population was 403,892, over an area of , making Raleigh...
.
Dedication ceremony
A dedication ceremony was held on October 16, 2002 in the parking lot behind City Hall in Mount Airy. Andy Griffith accepted the invitation to attend the ceremony. It was Griffith’s first public appearance in his hometown in over 40 years.Also in attendance were: Griffith’s wife Cindi Griffith, Governor Mike Easley, former University of North Carolina President William C. Friday
William C. Friday
William Clyde "Bill" Friday He was born in Raphine, Virginia and raised in Dallas, North Carolina. He served as the head of the University of North Carolina system from 1956 to 1986....
, Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain
Grandfather Mountain is a mountain, a non-profit attraction, and a North Carolina state parknear Linville, North Carolina. At 5,946 feet , it is the highest peak on the eastern escarpment of the Blue Ridge Mountains, one of the major chains of the Appalachian Mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway...
developer Hugh Morton
Hugh Morton
Hugh MacRae Morton was a photographer and nature conservationist who developed Grandfather Mountain in North Carolina.-Personal life:...
, as well as many more State and local officials. More than 3000 Andy Griffith fans also attended to welcome Andy Griffith back to Mount Airy.
See also
- Bannered routes of U.S. Route 52Bannered routes of U.S. Route 52Several bannered routes of U.S. Route 52 exist, from North Dakota to South Carolina. In order from northwest to southeast, separated by type, they are as follows.-Harvey business loop:...
- High Rock LakeHigh Rock LakeHigh Rock Lake is the northernmost of the Uwharrie Lakes and the second largest lake in North Carolina behind Lake Norman. Its water surface covers and there are of shoreline. It begins at the confluence of the Yadkin River and the South Yadkin River. The lake's name is derived from neighboring...
- Pee Dee National Wildlife RefugePee Dee National Wildlife RefugeSituated along the Pee Dee River, Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge contains in Anson and Richmond Counties, North Carolina. The refuge was established to provide wintering habitat for migratory waterfowl....
- Pee Dee RiverPee Dee RiverThe Pee Dee River, also known as the Great Pee Dee River, is a river in North Carolina and South Carolina. It originates in the Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina, where its upper course above the mouth of the Uwharrie River is known as the Yadkin River. It is extensively dammed for flood...
- Pilot Mountain State ParkPilot Mountain State ParkPilot Mountain State Park is a North Carolina state park in Surry and Yadkin Counties, North Carolina in the United States. Located near Pinnacle, North Carolina on highway US 52, it covers 3,703 acres and includes the distinctive 2,241 foot peak of Pilot Mountain.-History:The Saura, a...
- Rocky RiverRocky River (North Carolina)The Rocky River is a river in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. It begins in Iredell County near Mooresville and flows south into Cabarrus County, where it is the principal waterway in the county. The river continues southeastward to form the line between Stanly, Union, and Anson counties...
- Yadkin RiverYadkin RiverThe Yadkin River is one of the longest rivers in North Carolina, flowing . It rises in the northwestern portion of the state near the Blue Ridge Parkway's Thunder Hill Overlook. Several parts of the river are impounded by dams for water, power, and flood control. The river becomes the Pee Dee...