Fayetteville Market House construction begins; expect detours through November

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. (WNCN) — If you’re driving through downtown Fayetteville, expect a different route. Construction is now underway around the historic Market House, closing part of the traffic circle on Hay Street and sending drivers on detours as crews begin months of pedestrian safety and accessibility upgrades.

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The project marks the third phase of Fayetteville’s ongoing effort to repurpose the nearly 200-year-old landmark. Construction is expected to continue through November.

City officials say the work is designed to make one of downtown’s busiest intersections safer for both pedestrians and motorists while improving access to the historic structure.

“We are creating a more safer and accessible experience for residents and visitors,” said David Scott, spokesperson for the City of Fayetteville.

The nearly $650,000 Market Square Pedestrian Improvements Project includes:

• New crosswalks
• Pedestrian refuge islands
• Updated traffic signage and pavement markings
• Improvements to the brick platform surrounding the Market House
• New ADA-compliant accessibility ramps

“We are also doing ADA accessibility ramps too, so people can have a safer and easier access to the Market House,” Scott said.

Although traffic patterns have changed, city leaders want people to know downtown businesses remain open during construction.

“While construction is underway around the Market House, we just want residents and our visitors to know things remain open and accessible,” Scott said.

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Drivers are being asked to slow down, stay alert and follow posted detour signs while traveling through the construction zone.

“We encourage motorists to just be safe around the Market House as they are driving around and follow the detour signs as needed,” Scott said.

Earlier this year, the Fayetteville City Council approved a $648,519.20 contract for the project, calling it an investment in pedestrian safety, accessibility and the future of one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

Built in 1832, the Market House has played several roles throughout Fayetteville’s history. It served as a public marketplace and courthouse, but it also stands as the site where enslaved people were once sold, making it one of the city’s most historically significant and controversial landmarks.

The building was heavily damaged during civil unrest in 2020 when a fire was set inside the lower level. Since then, the city has completed restoration work on the steeple and exterior while moving forward with plans to repurpose the structure.

Future plans call for educational displays and kiosks that will tell the full history of the Market House and its role in Fayetteville’s past.

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