Charlotte, North Carolina, October 21, 2025
Construction on I-85 in northeast Charlotte is causing overnight lane closures and detours as crews work on necessary pavement improvements. Commuters are advised to expect delays and to pay close attention to signage during the affected hours. The work is essential for enhancing road safety and traffic flow. Motorists should plan alternative routes to avoid congestion.
Charlotte, NC: Overnight Lane Closures on I-85 for Bridge Construction
Charlotte, NC – Starting Monday, October 20, 2025, overnight lane closures and detours are in effect on Interstate 85 (I-85) in northeast Charlotte. These closures are part of the ongoing construction of a new bridge over I-85, aimed at improving connectivity in the University City area.
Details of the Lane Closures
The construction involves installing bridge girders over I-85, necessitating the following lane closures and detours:
- Southbound I-85: On Monday, October 20, and Tuesday, October 21, southbound lanes will close progressively from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., all southbound traffic will be rerouted. Drivers should take Exit 46 (West Mallard Creek Church Road) to North Tryon Street and W.T. Harris Boulevard to rejoin I-85 South.
- Northbound I-85: On Wednesday, October 22, and Thursday, October 23, northbound lanes will close progressively from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. Between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m., all northbound traffic will be rerouted. Drivers should take Exit 45B (W.T. Harris Boulevard) to North Tryon Street and West Mallard Creek Church Road to rejoin I-85 North.
All lanes are scheduled to reopen by 6 a.m. on Friday, October 24, 2025.
Project Overview
The new bridge over I-85 is part of a $50.7 million project aimed at enhancing connectivity between residential, retail, and educational areas in University City and the employment center of the University Research Park. The bridge will provide an alternative route to both the W.T. Harris Boulevard and Mallard Creek Church Road interchanges with I-85. Additionally, it will offer direct connections to the University Research Park, the future Doby Creek and Barton Creek greenways, the J.W. Clay station of the LYNX Blue Line, and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. The project is designed to accommodate all modes of transportation, including motorists, public transit, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
Impact on Commuters
Commuters are advised to plan for potential delays during the affected hours and to follow all posted signage and detour routes. The construction is scheduled to minimize disruption to daytime traffic, with all closures occurring overnight. However, drivers should remain alert and exercise caution in the construction zones.
Background
The I-85 North Bridge project is managed by the City of Charlotte, with oversight from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT). Construction on the bridge’s center support pier has recently been completed, and the roadway is currently open in both directions. The project aims to alleviate congestion and improve traffic flow in the area, benefiting both local residents and commuters traveling through the region.
Contact Information
For more information about the project, contact Adam Jarman at 980-850-8185 or David Burke at 980-556-6332.
Stay Informed
For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the overnight lane closures on I-85 in Charlotte?
The overnight lane closures are part of the construction of a new bridge over I-85, aimed at improving connectivity in the University City area.
When will the lane closures occur?
The closures will begin at 9 p.m. on Monday, October 20, 2025, and end at 6 a.m. on Friday, October 24, 2025.
Which lanes will be affected?
Southbound lanes will be closed on October 20 and 21, and northbound lanes will be closed on October 22 and 23. All lanes are scheduled to reopen by 6 a.m. on October 24, 2025.
What are the detour routes for affected drivers?
Southbound drivers should take Exit 46 (West Mallard Creek Church Road) to North Tryon Street and W.T. Harris Boulevard to rejoin I-85 South. Northbound drivers should take Exit 45B (W.T. Harris Boulevard) to North Tryon Street and West Mallard Creek Church Road to rejoin I-85 North.
Who is managing the construction project?
The project is managed by the City of Charlotte, with oversight from the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT).
Key Features of the I-85 North Bridge Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Budget | $50.7 million |
| Project Duration | October 20–24, 2025 |
| Lane Closure Times | 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. (overnight) |
| Detour Routes | Southbound: Exit 46 to North Tryon Street and W.T. Harris Boulevard; Northbound: Exit 45B to North Tryon Street and West Mallard Creek Church Road |
| Reopening Time | 6 a.m. on Friday, October 24, 2025 |
| Project Manager | City of Charlotte |
| Project Oversight | North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) |
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Author: Construction NC News
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