The report from Cambridge Systematics and Sanford Holshouser Economic Development Consulting, focused on the potential impact of making U.S. 70 a limited access, Interstate-like highway from Raleigh to Morehead City. It was released today at a meeting of the Highway 70 Corridor Commission, which is chaired by Carteret County Commissioner Robin Comer. Among its findings, the study concluded by 2040 the series of bypasses and upgrade projects would: Create as many as 1,900 jobs each year for communities that rely on the corridor like Smithfield, Goldsboro, Kinston, New Bern, Havelock and Morehead City. Add $1.2 billion to the gross regional product, including $900 million in additional personal income Save $56 million for existing businesses. “U.S. 70 is older and large segments have not been brought up to more current highway standards,” the report said. “Therefore, the communities surrounding the corridor are losing their competitive advantage to those areas with better [...]