Innovative design proposals are being sought for the I-77 South toll lane project in Charlotte, North Carolina. These proposals have been called for by the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). The proposed designs could include a tunnel section, with the key requirement being that they slot within the existing alignment for the elevated lanes.
As well as the new express toll lanes, the project also includes rebuilding a number of interchanges and bridges. The aim of the work is to reduce congestion and cut journey times for drivers. However, some locals have said that the addition of express lanes to the north of Charlotte has done little to alleviate congestion as toll rates are high, dissuading some drivers from using them. The project is being delayed to allow for greater community engagement. There has been some criticism of the proposed design put forward previously for a raised expressway. Residents in the south of the city have said that this could increase noise and pollution as well as causing considerable disturbance during the construction phase.
Bidding is some way off but is expected to be awarded in 2027, with construction following after. The project was originally expected to cost $3.2 billion but has been subject to a series of price increases due to factors such as higher material and labour costs.
