CONCORD –Expect more traffic on the roadways in northeast Mecklenburg County and southwest Cabarrus County this week as race fans arrive for the Coca-Cola 600 on Sunday, May 26. The N.C. Department of Transportation is preparing for increased traffic on Interstate 85, U.S. 29, N.C. 49, and Bruton Smith Boulevard throughout the week.
The Department will use overhead message signs and portable message signs to alert drivers of potential problem areas and suggest alternate routes around incidents and congestion. Real-time traffic information is available anytime at www.DriveNC.gov.
Bruton Smith Boulevard often sees the most traffic volume because mobile direction services and GPS devices typically direct users to this route. However, NCDOT advises motorists to use U.S. 29 to reduce delays.
The following are suggested routes to Charlotte Motor Speedway:
- From South Carolina: Take I-77 North to the I-485 outer loop (Exit 1B) to U.S. 29 North (Exit 32) or N.C. 49 North (Exit 33).
- From west of Charlotte: Take I-85 North to I-485 (Exit 30) and follow I-485 Inner to U.S. 29 North. An alternate route is I-85 North to Poplar Tent Road (Exit 52) to Pitts School Road to U.S. 29 South.
- From east of Charlotte: Take the I-485 outer loop to U.S. 29 North (Exit 32) or N.C. 49 North (Exit 33); and
- From north of Charlotte: Take I-85 South to George W. Liles Parkway (Exit 54) to U.S. 29 South.
Commuters who use I-85 through this area should adjust their driving time or, if possible, use an alternate route, especially during the weekend.
After race events, all traffic will be directed away from the speedway. Motorists should always follow instructions from law enforcement.
For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.