As one of the busiest roads in North Carolina, driving along I-485 had become a frustrating experience for Charlotte’s rush-hour commuters. Averaging almost 135,000 vehicles per day, this section encircling the city was projected to see increased traffic and decreased average speeds. To relieve congestion, the North Carolina Department of Transportation selected the design-build delivery method to widen nine miles of the four-lane roadway to six- and eight-lane sections between I-77 and Rea Road.
STV’s design included three sound barrier walls in the project limits. STV provided comprehensive services for the project, including structure and roadway design, stormwater management and roadway drainage design, pavement and foundation design, environmental planning, permitting, traffic control, and utility and railroad coordination.
135,000
average daily vehicles
9
miles widened