News Summary
Significant lane closures on Interstate 85 will start as crews begin a $50.7 million bridge construction project in Charlotte. The new bridge will enhance transportation connectivity and reduce congestion. Construction will occur overnight, with lane restrictions expected between July 14 and September 11. Motorists are advised to exercise caution during this phase.
Charlotte – Major lane closures on Interstate 85 will begin on Monday, July 14, as crews start a significant bridge construction project estimated to cost $50.7 million. The bridge aims to serve as a grand entrance into Charlotte, showcasing the city’s name in capital letters on both sides and incorporating the Queen Charlotte crown design at both ends, making it visible to drivers.
The new bridge will connect Research Drive and J.W. Clay Boulevard in the northeast University area of Charlotte. Designed to accommodate various modes of transportation, the bridge will provide access for cars, public transit, bicycles, and pedestrians. This project is anticipated to enhance connectivity between residential and retail areas, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC), and the University Research Park employment center.
Officials expect the bridge to help reduce congestion at the I-85 interchanges at W.T. Harris Boulevard and Mallard Creek Church Road by offering an alternative route for drivers. Furthermore, the bridge will connect to the LYNX Blue Line J.W. Clay station and future greenways, specifically Doby Creek and Barton Creek.
Construction will involve lane closures on I-85 during nighttime hours, from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. The schedule for lane closures is as follows: the left lane of I-85 South will be closed on July 14 between Mallard Creek Church Road and Harris Boulevard; the left lane of I-85 North will be closed on July 15 between Harris Boulevard and Mallard Creek Church Road; and additional lane closures will occur between July 16 and July 17 for protective barrier installation.
Dane Construction, based in Mooresville, has been selected as the general contractor for this project. The construction team is expected to work around the clock over the next two months to build the interior support of the bridge, known as the “bent,” followed by the superstructure, which will consist of girders, beams, deck, and railing.
Planning for the bridge began back in 2017, with the expected opening date now set for 2028. This timeline reflects considerations for utility relocation delays that need to be addressed before the bridge can open to the public. Normal traffic flow from lane closures is scheduled to resume on or before September 11.
During this construction phase, drivers should remain vigilant as construction trucks will frequently enter and exit the median. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is urging motorists to exercise caution and adhere to any posted signs and speed limits in the area.
For inquiries related to this construction project, NCDOT has provided the following contact numbers: Adam Jarman at 980-850-8185 and David Burke at 980-556-6332.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WSOC TV: I-85 Bridge Construction
- Wikipedia: Charlotte, North Carolina
- QC News: Tractor-Trailer Crash on I-85
- Google Search: I-85 Charlotte
- Hoodline: I-85 Lane Closures Announcement
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charlotte
- WCNC: Crane Truck Accident in Gaston County
- Google News: I-85 Construction
Author: HERE Charlotte
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