Gaston County, North Carolina, October 21, 2025
Lane closures on Interstate 85 in Gaston County, North Carolina, have commenced as part of a major bridge maintenance project. The work will involve phased restrictions aimed at enhancing safety and improving traffic efficiency for local drivers. Motorists are advised to plan ahead and expect delays as construction unfolds in the area.
Gaston County, North Carolina
Lane Closures Begin on I-85 for Bridge Maintenance
Gaston County, North Carolina – Nightly lane closures on Interstate 85 North near the South Fork Catawba River bridge, just north of McAdenville, began on Sunday, October 19, 2025. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has closed the right northbound lane from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., continuing through Thursday morning, October 23, 2025, depending on contractor progress. This closure is part of a geotechnical investigation necessary for the future I-85 widening project, aimed at gathering data on the ground beneath the roadway to inform the design of a wider bridge over the South Fork Catawba River.
Details of the I-85 Widening Project
The I-85 widening project represents a substantial infrastructure initiative in Gaston County. The NCDOT has awarded a $337 million contract to Lane Construction Corp. for the first segment of the project, which includes:
- Adding one lane in each direction from N.C. 7 (Exit 23) to N.C. 273 (Exit 27)
- Rehabilitating or replacing the South Fork Catawba River bridge and several other bridges
- Modifying interchanges to increase traffic mobility and enhance operational movements
This segment is currently in the design phase, with construction expected to start in summer 2026.
Impact on Local Traffic
Motorists traveling on I-85 North near McAdenville should expect the nightly lane closure from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. through Thursday morning, October 23, 2025. Although one lane will remain open at all times, drivers are advised to prepare for potential delays during these hours. The NCDOT recommends using alternative routes or adjusting travel times to bypass the construction area when possible.
Background on Previous Maintenance Efforts
In August 2018, NCDOT performed maintenance work on the bridge carrying Shannon Bradley Road over I-85 near mile marker 14 in Gaston County. This operation resulted in the closure of two of three lanes on I-85 North from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., Monday through Thursday, to safely conduct the work.
Weather Forecast for Gaston County
As of Tuesday, October 21, 2025, the weather in Gaston County is clear with a temperature of 41°F (5°C). The upcoming forecast includes:
- Tuesday, October 21: Pleasant with plenty of sun; breezy in the afternoon, High: 76°F (24°C), Low: 48°F (9°C)
- Wednesday, October 22: Breezy and pleasant with plenty of sun, High: 71°F (22°C), Low: 39°F (4°C)
- Thursday, October 23: Nice with plenty of sun, High: 70°F (21°C), Low: 40°F (5°C)
- Friday, October 24: Mostly sunny, High: 67°F (20°C), Low: 44°F (7°C)
- Saturday, October 25: Nice with times of clouds and sun, High: 70°F (21°C), Low: 53°F (11°C)
- Sunday, October 26: Periods of rain, High: 70°F (21°C), Low: 55°F (13°C)
- Monday, October 27: Cloudy, High: 70°F (21°C), Low: 56°F (13°C)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the lane closures on I-85 in Gaston County?
The lane closures are part of a geotechnical investigation necessary for the future I-85 widening project. The investigation aims to gather data on the ground beneath the roadway to inform the design of a wider bridge over the South Fork Catawba River.
When will the I-85 widening project begin construction?
The construction for the I-85 widening project is expected to begin in summer 2026.
How long will the nightly lane closures on I-85 last?
The nightly lane closures on I-85 North near McAdenville are scheduled from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., continuing through Thursday morning, October 23, 2025, depending on contractor progress.
What are the expected weather conditions during the construction period?
The weather in Gaston County is expected to be pleasant and sunny during the construction period, with temperatures ranging from the low 40s to mid-70s Fahrenheit.
Have there been previous maintenance efforts on I-85 in Gaston County?
Yes, in August 2018, NCDOT performed maintenance work on the bridge carrying Shannon Bradley Road over I-85 near mile marker 14 in Gaston County. During that operation, two of three lanes on I-85 North were closed from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., Monday through Thursday, to safely perform the work.
Key Features of the I-85 Widening Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Cost | $337 million |
| Project Phases | Adding lanes, rehabilitating/replacing bridges, modifying interchanges |
| Construction Start | Summer 2026 |
| Lane Closure Schedule | 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., October 19–23, 2025 |
| Weather Forecast | Clear and pleasant, temperatures in the 40s to 70s°F |
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Author: Construction NC News
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