Construction on new express lanes along I-77 South, stretching from the South Carolina state line to uptown Charlotte, is expected to begin in 2030, according to a July 29 presentation by NCDOT officials.
The $3.2 billion project will add two toll lanes in each direction along an 11-mile corridor. Officials say the lanes will improve travel times, guarantee a minimum speed of 45 mph, and reduce congestion-related crashes.
The expansion will be funded through a public-private partnership, with private developers recouping their investment by operating and tolling the lanes for decades. The state’s financial contribution will be capped at $600 million, or about 18.75% of the total cost.
The project includes rebuilding 11 interchanges and several bridges, adding significant cost compared to the I-77 North express lanes, which opened in 2019.
Officials say environmental reviews and public engagement will begin this fall, with a private developer selected by spring 2027.
