KEY POINTS
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After nearly a decade of planning and delays, construction on Charlotte’s $50.7M Interstate-85 Bridge will begin July 14.
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Originally envisioned with signature arches, the bridge will now proceed without them to reduce costs following major utility relocation delays since its 2017 design.
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Completion of the infrastructure project is expected in 2028
The City of Charlotte announced July 7 that construction on the long-awaited Interstate-85 bridge in Charlotte, NC, is finally set to begin next week. The project start follows nearly a decade of planning and delays.
The $50.7 million infrastructure project will serve as a major new connection across I-85, linking University City to the University Research Park and improving access for vehicles, public transit, bicycles, and pedestrians.
Rendering of the Interstate-85 bridge in Charlotte, NC, is shown in an image during daylight and nighttime. The bridge offers direct links to UNC Charlotte, local greenways, and the LYNX Blue Line’s J.W. Clay station. Image: City of Charlotte
The bridge project was first envisioned in 2017, when Charlotte officials invited residents to vote on its design. The winning concept featured distinctive arches, but after years of setbacks, primarily due to extensive utility relocation, the city has opted to proceed without the arches to keep costs down.
Lane closures along I-85 are scheduled to begin July 14, as construction crews start work on the bridge’s key interior supports. The city expects construction to last until 2028, marking 11 years since the original planning began.
City leaders emphasize the bridge’s importance for regional connectivity. It provides an alternative to the W.T. Harris Boulevard and Mallard Creek Church Road interchanges and offers direct links to UNC Charlotte, local greenways, and the LYNX Blue Line’s J.W. Clay station.
Despite the changes from the original design, officials say the bridge will still serve as a significant new gateway for Charlotte’s northeast corridor.
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