Greenville, October 26, 2025
News Summary
Greenville has completed its $48.5 million BUILD improvement project, which was initiated to enhance transportation and connectivity in the city. The project includes a newly built roundabout and improvements to pedestrian infrastructure, emphasizing safety and accessibility. City officials celebrated its timely completion despite challenges faced along the way. Local business owners view the enhancements as vital for the community’s growth and connectivity.
Greenville has officially completed its $48.5 million Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) improvement project, marked by a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, October 24, 2025. The recent removal of the final barriers along Fifth Street signals the end of extensive roadwork that has been ongoing since 2023.
Key features of the project include a newly constructed roundabout at the intersection of Fifth Street with Elizabeth Street and Albemarle Avenue, as well as extensive improvements ranging from Cadillac Drive to Reade Street. The project was completed two months ahead of schedule, although certain supplemental and greenway work will continue in the coming months.
The BUILD improvement project was organized into four phases focused on greenway and multi-use path development, alongside three phases aimed at upgrading specific sections of Fifth Street. City Councilwoman Monica Daniels highlighted the project’s importance in fostering connections between neighborhoods and enhancing safety for both residents and visitors. Councilwoman Marion Blackburn underscored the project’s sustainability efforts, which contribute to a more pedestrian-friendly environment.
The foundation for this major improvement initiative stems from a study undertaken in 2006 that aimed to enhance roadway connections to East Carolina University and the Medical District. In November 2019, Greenville secured a significant $15 million grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to support the project.
Delays related to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising building material costs caused the initial project budget to escalate from $24 million to $48.5 million. Although there were complaints from local businesses regarding road closures during construction, many now view the project as a substantial asset to the community. Business owner Brett Oliverio commended the project for transforming downtown Greenville, calling it a game changer for local businesses.
Throughout the project’s execution, Trader Construction from New Bern served as the primary contractor, encountering challenges such as vandalism and dealing with uncharted underground utilities. City Manager Michael Cowin described the successful completion of the project as a testament to the perseverance of all those involved.
With the project’s completion, notable additions to the infrastructure include 36 pedestrian signal heads, 174 curb ramps, and over 12,950 linear feet of sidewalk. The celebration kicked off at The State Theatre, featuring food, a cash bar, live music, and the traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony, signifying a new era for transportation and community connectivity in Greenville.
Key Features of the BUILD Improvement Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Project Cost | $48.5 million |
| Completion Date | October 24, 2025 |
| Roundabout Installation | At Fifth Street’s intersection with Elizabeth Street and Albemarle Avenue |
| Pedestrian Features | 36 pedestrian signal heads, 174 curb ramps, over 12,950 linear feet of sidewalk |
| Phases of Work | Four phases for greenway and multi-use paths; three phases for Fifth Street upgrades |
FAQ
What is the total cost of the BUILD improvement project?
$48.5 million
When was the BUILD improvement project completed?
October 24, 2025
What are some notable features of the project?
The project includes 36 pedestrian signal heads, 174 curb ramps, and over 12,950 linear feet of sidewalk.
What were some challenges faced during the project’s construction?
Challenges included vandalism and uncharted underground utilities.
Who was the primary contractor for the project?
Trader Construction from New Bern was the primary contractor.
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Additional Resources
- Reflector: Celebration of BUILD Project Completion
- Wikipedia: Urban Planning
- WITN: Greenville Leaders Celebrate Completion of BUILD Project
- Google Search: Greenville infrastructure project
- WNCT: Downtown Greenville Finishes BUILD Project Construction
- Google Scholar: Greenville infrastructure development
- WCTI: Greenville Celebrates Near Completion of BUILD Project
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Development
- WNCT Video: Downtown Greenville BUILD Project Completion
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
