By Josh Bergeron

josh.bergeron@salisburypost.com

Rowan County government on Thursday started gathering public comments about a planned extension of water and sewer lines and economic development near a future Interstate 85 exit.

The county held a public meeting at Bostian Elementary School about both issues. Maps were placed around the room to illustrate future changes to the landscape of southern Rowan County.

County staff members, commissioners and engineers also met with the Rowan County Planning Board and officials from China Grove and Landis.

The county’s meeting drew limited turnout. But Planning Director Ed Muire said county staff indefinitely will collect any comments that members of the public want to offer about development or a water and sewer system.

Transportation-related changes to southern Rowan will be significant. Some of the most significant will be the widening of I-85 from two lanes on each side to four lanes on each side. A new road will be built north of Old Beatty Ford Road. That new road will be named Old Beatty Ford Road. Construction crews will build an interstate exit at the new road.

Meanwhile, the Rowan County Board of Commissioners wants to extend municipal water lines into the area for economic development purposes.

To request information or to submit a comment about the county’s plans, visit tinyurl.com/landusecomment. To see a presentation related to the county’s plans, visit tiny url.com/landusestudy.

Contact reporter Josh Bergeron at 704-797-4246.