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Lane Construction has just been awarded a $337 million to widen the I-85 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The project will turn the highway from six to eight lanes on a four-mile section, helping to improving traffic flow and reduce congestion in an area considered one of the most dangerous in the country. Work will begin on summer 2026Lane will also overhaul six bridges. This project is just the beginning of improvements along I-85!
- Lane Construction will receive $337 million to widen I-85 in Charlotte.
- The project will increase from six to eight lanes over four miles.
- The aim is to improve traffic and reduce congestion on the road.
- Construction will begin in summer 2026using the design-build.
- This is the first of three $635 million to improve the I-85.
Lane Builds New $337 Million Road in Charlotte
A New Structure for I-85
A Lane Construction won a major $337 million to extend the I-85 in Charlotte, North Carolina. The work will include renovation of six bridges and the addition of more tracks in a four-mile section.
What it means for you
You may be asking yourself: "Why is this important to me?" The I-85 is one of the busiest highways and, historically, one of the most dangerous the country. With this expansion, the idea is to improving traffic flow e reduce congestionresulting in less time spent stuck in traffic and more safety for everyone. To better understand the challenges that roads face, check out the issues related to highway costs.
Project details
A North Carolina DOT (North Carolina Department of Transportation) chose Lane Construction for the job. The project will focus on an area ranging from N.C. 7 in Mount Holly until N.C. 273 on the western approach to the Catawba River in BelmontThis is a part of the road often mentioned as one of the most dangerous in the country, highlighting the need for improvement. For a broader view of how construction can impact safety, see how the construction helps climate mitigation.
How the Project Will Be Done
Lane Construction will use the design-build to carry out the project, allowing the team to work on design and construction simultaneously, speeding up the process. The design work has already begun and construction is scheduled to start in June. summer 2026. This approach is similar to other initiatives aimed at optimizing efficiency, such as those you can find in construction contracts.
A Major Investment on the Road
This project is the first of three planned by the North Carolina DOT, totaling $635 million. The aim is to add capacity and carry out other improvements along a stretch of 10 miles of the I-85. Bids for a segment that goes from McAdenville Road (exit 23) to the U.S. 321 exchange (exit 17) should be announced by the end of 2028. To better understand the impact of large investments, see how the transformation of buildings can influence the local economy.
What to expect in the future
With these improvements, you can expect a smoother traffic and a driving experience safer. Lane Construction is committed to doing quality work, something we can all appreciate. For more information on how construction can affect your life, consider the latest news from the construction industry.
The Impact on the Community
As well as improving the road, this project will also create jobs and help the local economy. With more jobs, people will have more money to spend at local businesses, benefiting everyone. Even if you don't drive on I-85, the improvements can positively impact your life. Job creation is a recurring theme, as evidenced in discussions on future hires.
The importance of security
Safety is crucial in this project. With I-85 often ranking among the most dangerous roads, the expansion and improvements are a direct response to this concern. It is hoped that with more lanes and refurbished bridges, the number of accidents will decrease and safety will increase. For more information on safety at construction sites, see how ensuring durability and safety in buildings.
What You Can Do
While the project is underway, it is important to drive carefully and attentively. Even with the improvements underway, traffic can be unpredictable. Pay attention to the signs and follow the instructions of the construction workers, who are there to ensure safety.
Conclusion
In short, Lane Construction is about to transform the I-85 with a project of $337 million which promises to improve safety and traffic flow. With work beginning in 2026You can look forward to a safer and more efficient future on the roads. Remember, while these changes are underway, road safety remains a priority.
Stay up to date
Keep an eye on the local news for updates on the project and how it might affect your daily routines. We all want our journeys to be safer and faster. For more information and tips, check out our other articles at Renovation Tips!

Adalberto Mendes, a name that resonates with the solidity of concrete and the precision of structural calculations, personifies the union between engineering theory and practice. A dedicated teacher and owner of a successful construction company, his career is marked by a passion that blossomed in childhood, fueled by the dream of erecting buildings that would shape the horizon. This early fascination led him down the path of engineering, culminating in a career where the classroom and the construction site complement each other, reflecting his commitment both to training new professionals and to bringing ambitious projects to fruition.