Barricades were removed on the latest stretch of Interstate 485 to open for motorists in the northern Charlotte area yesterday. What was expected to be completed in March 2007 opened without any fanfare by midday between North Carolina 16 (Brookshire Boulevard) and Interstate 77 / North Carolina 115 (Old Statesville Road). The 5.5 mile stretch completes the northwest quadrant of the Charlotte beltway, leaving the unconstructed northeast quadrant as the final link to a finishd Interstate 485.

Many thanks go to Jamie Dzencelowcz, who documented the new road this morning. Guides to Interstate 485 now include his efforts along the new stretch in both directions:

Sources:

  • Malme, Bob. “Latest I-485 Segment is (Finally) Open.” Online posting, Yahoo! Groups Southeast Roads and Transport, December 5, 2008.
  • “Drivers And Businesses Benefit From New Stretch Of I-485.” WSOC Charlotte, December 5, 2008.