N.C. Dept. of Transportation (finally) announces I-485 toll lanes open date
Drivers rejoice, as the construction of toll lanes on Interstate 485 in south Charlotte will finally come to an end late this month, the N.C. Department of Transportation said in a press release Tuesday.
Orange barrels, a longtime fixture on the 18-mile stretch between Interstate 77 and U.S. 74, will disappear and be replaced with cars at 6 a.m. on Feb. 28, the press release said.
“The I-485 Express Lanes project will enhance regional connectivity and reduce travel times for commuters and residents alike,” the press release said. “ After opening, the toll rates for the I-485 Express Lanes will initially be determined by vehicle length, time of day and the day of the week.”
The $346 million project began in 2019 and will open one express lane in each direction along one of the busiest stretches of interstate in the region.
Transactions will be reviewed the first few weeks to ensure accuracy, the department said, before shifting to a dynamic pricing model, meaning prices will change for different reasons. This includes number of drivers and average speed, the press release said.
Toll rates can be calculated on the NC Quick Pass website.
There are other ongoing projects that will continue along I-485 after the lanes open, as well as work on East John Street and Weddington Road, the department said.
An NC Quick Pass account will help drivers save 50% on tolls, the state says.
This story was originally published February 3, 2026 at 2:48 PM.
