5 Major Projects Transforming Charlotte’s Highways

Charlotte’s roadways are changing fast — and if you’ve driven around I-77, I-85, or anywhere near the airport lately, you’ve probably noticed the construction barrels and detours. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is rolling out several massive projects designed to tackle congestion, improve safety, and prepare for the region’s rapid growth.

Here’s a look at five key projects shaping the future of how Charlotte moves. 

1. I-77 Toll Lanes Expansion: Connecting Charlotte to South Carolina

One of the biggest undertakings in state history, the $3.2 billion I-77 toll lane expansion will extend from Uptown Charlotte all the way to the South Carolina border. This project aims to ease gridlock by adding express lanes and modernizing interchanges — but it also means major changes to existing exits and travel patterns.

Once complete, it’s expected to reduce commute times and give drivers more options when heading north or south through the Queen City.

2. The 10-Lane Bridge Rising Over Lake Norman

Big changes are also coming to Mooresville. Construction is officially underway on a new 10-lane bridge over I-77 near Lake Norman — part of the plan to improve the heavily traveled N.C. 150 corridor.

To make room for this massive upgrade, some lanes will be permanently closed during construction. The goal? To relieve one of the region’s most notorious bottlenecks and make travel around the lake faster and safer.

3. I-85 Expansion: Widening the Gateway

Interstate 85 — a critical connection between Charlotte and surrounding communities — is getting a $337 million facelift. The project adds one lane in each direction and replaces six outdated bridges.

In addition to easing daily congestion, this expansion will create smoother merges and safer travel for the thousands of commuters and freight vehicles that rely on I-85 every day.

4. Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road: Can It Handle All the Growth?

As new neighborhoods and shopping centers continue to pop up in northwest Charlotte, Mt. Holly-Huntersville Road has become one of the most talked-about corridors in town.

Residents say the two-lane road is no longer keeping up with the area’s rapid development. Plans are in discussion to widen the road and improve intersections — a move that could dramatically change how traffic flows through Mountain Island and beyond.

5. The I-85/I-485 Interchange Upgrade Near the Airport

Anyone who’s ever sat in traffic near the Charlotte Douglas International Airport knows how bad the I-85/I-485 interchange can get. That’s why NCDOT is finally tackling this chokepoint head-on.

The long-awaited project includes lane additions, ramp redesigns, and major safety improvements. Expect overnight closures through November as crews work to keep traffic moving while construction ramps up.

Charlotte’s Roads Are Evolving — and So Is the City

These projects represent billions in investment and years of planning — but they’re all aimed at one goal: keeping Charlotte’s economy and communities connected.

As construction continues, expect temporary headaches, lane closures, and new detours. But in the long run, these upgrades will make traveling through the Queen City faster, safer, and more efficient for everyone.

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Source: https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/local/article312573124.html