CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The I-485 express lanes project has been delayed and now isn’t scheduled to be completed until the spring of 2025 at the earliest.
The express lanes were supposed to open in 2022 before being pushed to 2024 and now to 2025. The NCDOT said the project has experienced numerous post-pandemic-related setbacks, including workforce shortages, and necessary materials not arriving on time.
“Critical progress milestones have passed, causing delays. The public has been patient for five years, and the Department wants this project finished,” says Division 10 Engineer Brett Canipe. “Our staff have been working with the contractor to develop an updated schedule we are confident will be met.”
The 17-mile project began in the summer of 2019.
While crews have made a lot of progress, there’s still plenty of work left to be done, including:
- Shifting all general-purpose lanes into final pattern
- Completing Bridgework on Johnston Road, Weddington Road and Ballantyne Commons Parkway
- Applying the final asphalt surface to the travel levels
- Instillation of tolling equipment
Once completed, it’s supposed to offer express lanes from exit 51 at U.S. 74 in Matthews until exit 67 to I-77. The NCDOT says the express lanes will offer a more reliable travel time.
Additional project features include one general purpose lane on I-485 in both directions between Rea Road and Providence Road. They will improve the interchange at John Street while also building an interchange at Weddington Road in Matthews.
The express lanes and Weddington Road interchange are expected to open by late 2024.
The NCDOT expects the entire project to be completed by the spring or summer of 2025.
