Charlotte Set for Major Road Improvements!
Hey there, Charlotte! If you’ve been stuck in traffic recently, we’ve got some news that might brighten your day. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is rolling out big changes to our highways that promise to ease congestion and improve your driving experience. Let’s dive into the details!
Express Lanes on I-485 Coming Soon
First up is the much-anticipated opening of express lanes on Interstate 485. After what seems like a long wait, NCDOT has shared that they are aiming to open these lanes by late summer 2025. This project will add an express lane in each direction on I-485 between I-77 and U.S. 74 (Independence Boulevard), plus a general-purpose lane for those looking for a traditional drive between Rea Road and Providence Road.
Originally set to finish in 2022, construction has faced some delays, and it looks like we’ll now have to be patient a bit longer. The project has a whopping total cost of $346 million and also includes interchange improvements at John Street, a new interchange at Weddington Road, and a bridge widening at Ballantyne Commons Parkway, which has already been completed! Even though we’ve had some bumps on the road, the end result will hopefully make your commutes a lot smoother.
Widening the I-85 Corridor
Next up, there’s exciting news about the widening of the I-85 corridor in Gaston County. Many of you may know that this stretch of highway can be a bit of a nightmare during rush hour! Fortunately, the I-85 widening project is set to tackle this issue. The improvements will span 10 miles from the U.S. 321 interchange in Gastonia to the N.C. 273 interchange in Mount Holly, with a completion target of 2030. The road will be widened from six to eight lanes, allowing for a smoother ride for everyone.
NCDOT spokesperson Jen Goodwin mentioned that this project not only affects the interstate but will also improve all overpasses in this corridor and some railroad overpasses. So, keep an eye on those detours as we get closer to the construction start date in late 2025!
Improving the I-85 and I-485 Interchange
There’s more good news! The interchange redesign at I-85 South is expected to kick off in fall 2025. This is considered one of the most congested interchanges in the state! When construction starts, drivers can expect some detours for about a year, so be sure to plan ahead. The total cost for this project is approximately $45 million, and it aims to improve traffic flow significantly.
A Closer Look at U.S. 74 Improvements
If you travel along U.S. 74, you’re in for some exciting changes too! A project to include a direct connect flyover into toll lanes from U.S. 74 is set to start construction in 2027. The total cost is estimated between $905 million and $958 million. NCDOT recently held a public meeting about this project, attracting over 180 concerned drivers eager to learn more.
Widening N.C. 73
For those commuting between Mecklenburg and Cabarrus counties, don’t fret! NCDOT is widening a 14-mile stretch of N.C. 73 between N.C. 115 and U.S. 29. Plus, there will be an 8.5-mile widening project extending from N.C. 16 in Lincoln County to Northcross Drive in Huntersville. Construction for these projects is slated to begin between summer 2026 and summer 2029, with a completion date yet to be determined. Jen Goodwin pointed out that with more apartments and single-family homes going up in these areas, it’s crucial to manage this development effectively.
Final Thoughts
So, Charlotte, while it looks like we’ll have some detours and wait times over the next few years, these road projects will ultimately enhance our travel experience when they’re complete. Stay tuned for more updates as construction gets underway, and let’s keep our fingers crossed for smoother rides ahead!
