Evernham & Wheeler: I-77 Toll Lanes Could Send Teams To SC

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CHARLOTTE, NC — Two big names in NASCAR are getting behind the push to try to stop toll lanes on I-77.  They say it could impact the industry, forcing NASCAR teams over the state line to South Carolina.

The DOT is using the toll lanes to widen 26 miles of I-77 from Charlotte to Mooresville.  Public outrage has increased since a clause in the final contract was revealed that penalizes the state for building general purpose lanes along the stretch over the next 50 years.

During a transportation meeting Wednesday night, Greg Wallace read statements from Ray Evernham and Humpy Wheeler.

“Unless something is done to relieve this horrible congestion, we stand to eventually lose the entire motorsports industry along the corridor,” said Wallace, quoting Wheeler.  “We must stop the current agreement no matter what it takes.”

The state DOT has said that it would cost about $245 million just to cancel the contract.  Even if that happens, there’s no guarantee adding general purpose lanes on I-77 would rank high enough on the state’s priority list to receive funding.  Construction is set to begin by the end of the summer.