News Summary
Severe weather has caused a rescheduling of the Gilead Road construction in Huntersville, initially set to begin May 9. The $30.8 million project focuses on roadway improvements including a diverging diamond interchange. Local police will manage traffic control and message boards will provide updates. Detours are planned for drivers and safety measures are in place. The project aims to alleviate congestion and enhance traffic flow in the area. Completion is targeted for September, contingent on weather conditions.
Huntersville
Severe weather has forced highway crews to adjust their plans for the construction at Gilead Road and I-77 Exit 23, which is part of a major $30.8 million redevelopment project in Huntersville. Originally scheduled to begin this Friday and finish by early Monday, the closure of Gilead Road will now take place from 10 p.m. on Friday, May 9, to 6 a.m. on Monday, May 12, in light of forecasts predicting scattered thunderstorms and wind hazards.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings that include potential damaging winds and large hail throughout Mecklenburg, Cabarrus, Union, and Rowan counties, as well as York and Chester counties in South Carolina. Safety concerns regarding the hazardous weather prompted the rescheduling of the road work, which will include the installation of the final layer of asphalt as part of ongoing improvements.
Traffic control during this period will be managed by local police, who will direct drivers and ensure safety. Message boards will be stationed in the area to keep motorists informed of the project and any necessary detours. The project aims to enhance traffic flow in the area by constructing a diverging diamond interchange, a design also implemented at I-77 Exit 28, I-485 at Mallard Creek Road, and I-85 at Poplar Tent Road.
Detour Routes Explained
For drivers traveling west of I-77, the recommended detour will require taking I-77 South to Harris Boulevard. After crossing the bridge, drivers can then return north to Gilead Road. For those heading east of I-77, the suggested route involves taking I-77 North to N.C. 73, crossing the bridge, and subsequently returning south via I-77 to access Gilead Road.
The diverging diamond interchange design is intended to mitigate congestion, particularly at the signals where highway exit ramps intersect with the main thoroughfare. Adjustments will be made to reposition traffic lights within the interchange to further ease bottlenecks and enhance safety for all road users. The construction project began in 2021 and is aimed at addressing the increasing traffic demands in Huntersville, especially as development has continued in the area.
Current Project Status
The contractor responsible for the construction must complete the enhancements by September. However, if the weather remains favorable, earlier completion is possible. Remaining work includes finishing concrete islands, widening the roadway, and finalizing striping, all crucial for ensuring that the project meets its objectives for improving traffic flow.
Gilead Road is a vital access point for those traveling to downtown Huntersville and the Novant Health Huntersville Medical Center. The area also serves numerous restaurants and retail establishments, making it essential for local commerce. Originally, the construction plan included U-turn bulbs and left-turn bans to facilitate smoother traffic movement, significant changes intended to enhance safety and reduce delays.
Once the closure is lifted early Monday, full access to Gilead Road is expected to be restored, allowing traffic to resume its normal flow. This project not only aims to address current congestion issues but also anticipates future traffic increases as the Huntersville area continues to evolve and expand.
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Huntersville Faces Traffic Changes This Weekend
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