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Winston Salem Northern Beltway

The Winston-Salem Northern Beltway project is a massive plan involving building a multi-lane freeway that loops from I-40 on the southwest side north to US 52  at Tobaccoville Road, then southeast to I-40. This 35-mile freeway has been underway since December 2014 and is expected to stretch out to 2029 and cost $1.74 billion dollars.

While this new freeway is expected to provide improved traffic flow, increased economic opportunity, and other benefits, it will impact property owners whose land is in the way of the mapped out highway. Land acquisition is in the works for much of the Western Loop which goes from US 52 to US 158 at Stratford Road.

Due to COVID-19 funding issues, the timeline for construction is delayed, so even though you may not have been contacted by a right of way agent, that doesn’t mean you won’t be in the future. If you are contacted, you need an experienced eminent domain attorney in North Carolina who will fight on your behalf to get a settlement you deserve.

Contact Our Land Condemnation Attorneys

 

What is Eminent Domain?

Eminent domain refers to the US or state government’s right  to obtain property from private citizens as long as they are fairly compensated . In the past, property obtained via eminent domain could only be used for projects deemed to favor public good, but the Supreme Court Case Kelo v. City of New London determined that the government can also use eminent domain on behalf of private developers to further economic development or run utilities.

NCDOT projects are considered beneficial to the public good, therefore, a fair use of eminent domain. However, property owners still deserve fair compensation which is often not offered from the state, which is why it’s necessary to speak with an experienced eminent domain attorney can provide guidance and ensure that you are treated fairly.

What is Land Condemnation?

In an eminent domain case, land condemnation refers to the actual seizure of property. Basically, while eminent domain is the right to take land, land condemnation is the act of taking it (with fair compensation). This in no way refers to condemning land or property because it’s unsafe or hazardous. 

What is the Eminent Domain Process in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, once a public project, like building the Loop, is announced, they hold meetings that are open to the public. If your property is in the vicinity of a project, you can learn more about the project and if your property will be affected. If it’s determined that your property may be acquired under eminent domain, contact an attorney immediately to help guide you through the process.

Here’s what you can expect:

Eminent Domain Proceedings

Eminent domain proceedings can occur without prior negotiations. Here’s how it works:

Eminent Domain Resources for Landowners

The NCDOT does try to minimize the number of homes and businesses affected by its projects, mainly to help save money, but sometimes, it is unavoidable. Fortunately, the NCDOT offers relocation assistance for residents and businesses displaced by eminent domain as well as paying for their property. This assistance can come in the form of rent payments, moving costs, and paying for property storage, if necessary.  An eminent domain lawyer can assist you in determining the type of assistance you are qualified to receive.

Eminent Domain Lawyer for Winston-Salem Property Owners

If your property lies along the route needed to build the Loop, a portion of your land is at risk of being acquired using eminent domain, and you may eligible for more than simply the cost of your land. The experienced eminent domain lawyers of Kirk, Kirk, Howell, Cutler & Thomas, LLP will review your case and help you receive just compensation, as well as any related assistance funds in which you are entitled. In some cases, you may be eligible for compensation for business losses as well.

If you are contacted by a Right of Way agent regarding this project in Winston-Salem, call our law firm immediately at (919) 615-2473 or complete the form below to speak with us about eminent domain and land condemnation. We will guide you through the process and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your time, property, and any other associated costs.

 

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Phone: (919) 365-6000

Our Office:
200 North Pine Street
Wendell, NC 27591

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