Winter 2025 — that's when the express lanes along I-485 in South Charlotte are expected to be complete. The $346 million project, underway since 2019, promises several new stretches of road to the area, plus less time sitting in traffic.

"[The lanes] are the product of what's called the 'Fast Lane Study' that was done back in 2007," Brian Davis, NCDOT's Lead Resident Engineer-Matthews told CLTtoday. "The city of Charlotte, NCDOT, and other agencies studied the whole region to decide what roads would benefit most from express lanes."

Food for thought: I-77's general purpose lanes see a 30% to 40% increase in average speed during peak travel times. Basically, you're cutting your commute time.

"That extra 20 minutes you get to spend with your family or doing something that you enjoy instead of sitting in traffic will help in a lot of different ways," said Davis.

What will drivers notice?

When the I-485 express lanes are complete, drivers will notice one lane in each direction of I-485 between I-77 and Independence Boulevard. There will also be one general-purpose lane between Rea Road and Providence Road in the Ballantyne and Waverly/Rea Farms areas.

Travelers on Westinghouse Boulevard and Johnston Road will also find interchanges to drive directly onto the express lanes.

NCDOT is constructing exit and entrance ramps that directly connect express lanes to Johnston Road. | Photo via NCDOT

Projects within a project

While express lanes were being added, NCDOT had three other construction projects nearby:

Ballantyne Commons bridge widening to be completed by mid-spring.
Widening of Weddington Road to be finished by late summer or early fall.
John Street will be widened this fall to ease traffic along nearby interchange ramps.

Express lane costs

While a price has not been shared on the I-485 toll lanes, drivers can expect to find dynamic pricing (similar to I-77). Meaning, more drivers = higher costs.

Pro tip: CATS buses ride in the express lanes for free + Quick Passes can save drivers 50% on NC tolls.