Duke Street section closing through fall to build Durham stream, wetland complex: Officials

DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN) — Major traffic changes are coming after Memorial Day weekend near downtown Durham, according to city officials.

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The City of Durham announced on social media this week that part of Duke Street will be closed from May 26 until September 18.

This road closure between Trinity Avenue and Monmouth Avenue is part of a project to transform the area into a massive wetland and create new tributaries connected to South Ellerbe Creek.

“It’ll allow workers to safely improve sewer lines and storm drain infrastructure located under the roadway,” officials said.

The detour recommended by city officials directs drivers to take Washington Street from Trinity Avenue to West Markham Avenue to return to North Duke Street. Signs will also be up to direct drivers during the road closure.

City officials said the South Ellerbe Restoration Project will improve water quality, reduce flooding, add green space and “support aquatic life.” According to officials, the transformation will include:

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• A 4.3-acre wetland and two restored tributaries to South Ellerbe Creek 
• A loop trail that connects to the South Ellerbe Creek Trail, with a future part of the Durham Rail Trail 
• A pedestrian plaza along West Trinity Avenue with a lawn area, seating, educational signage, and public art

“When we build neighborhoods and downtown areas, it changes the natural water cycle,” an official said in a video from the City of Durham. “With nothing to slow it down, rainwater rushes from the streets through storm drains to the creek, bringing all the pollutants with it. One solution to this is to design and build constructed wetlands.”

With this project, city officials aim to sustainably reduce flooding and pollution with the constructed wetland.

“A constructed wetland helps us slow and filter stormwater in a way that’s closer to the natural water cycle,” the video said. “The plants, soils, and pools in the wetland are designed to clean the water, and they also provide ecological benefits by creating habitat for wildlife and pollinators.”

The South Ellerbe Restoration Project is in the Ellerbe Creek Watershed, which drains into Falls Lake. The South Ellerbe Creek Trail will also be closed during the construction.

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