CHARLOTTE – The
I-485 Express Lanes are set to open to traffic in late February 2026 and travelers should be aware of how they will work before they open.
The I-485 Express Lanes project will add one express lane in each direction along I-485 between I-77 and U.S. 74 (Independence Boulevard) in Charlotte, providing travel time reliability and improving traffic flow in this critical transportation corridor. The project will also add one general-purpose lane in each direction along I-485 between Rea Road and Providence Road. In coordination with other projects in southern Mecklenburg County, this project will serve as part of a larger network of
express lanes offering drivers the option of more reliable travel times.
After opening, the
toll rates for the I-485 Express Lanes will be initially set by time of day and day of the week. After approximately twelve months of operations, we expect to begin dynamic pricing, meaning that prices will fluctuate based on factors such as the number of drivers in the express lanes and average speeds to ensure traffic in the express lanes maintain a minimum of 45 miles per hour. Drivers will be notified of the price NC Quick Pass account holders will pay on the toll pricing signs prior to entering any segment of the express lanes. Drivers without a NC Quick Pass will pay a higher rate.
Vehicle
| Vehicle Length
| NC Quick Pass
| Toll Invoice
|
Standard Vehicle
| Two-axle vehicles less than 22 feet
| Posted rate
| Two times posted rate
|
Extended Vehicle
| Two-axle vehicles more than 22 feet or two-axle vehicles with a single-axle trailer
| Two times posted rate
|
Two times toll invoice rate
|
Toll-Free Travel for the I-485 Express Lanes
The following riders and vehicles will qualify for toll-free travel in the I-485 Express Lanes:
Unlike the I-77 North Express Lanes, which opened to traffic in 2019, there will be no discounted or free HOV (high-occupancy vehicle) travel in the I-485 Express Lanes.
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