I-77 EXPRESS Lanes Charlotte, NC

25-April-2017 The Center for Transportation Public-Private Partnership Policy

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Project Overview

• 26 miles of dedicated toll lanes that operate adjacent to the existing general purpose lanes

• Divided in 8 segments to provide ample connectivity to the existing road network.

• Dynamic pricing to keep traffic moving

at consistent speeds for reliable travel times

• The same number of existing free lanes will remain along the entire highway in both directions

• Drivers decide to use the express lanes, the general purpose lanes or a combination of both

• Free access to express lanes for emergency vehicles, motorcycles and vehicles with three or more people using a transponder

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2009: A feasibility study considering converting existing HOV lanes on I-77 to Express Lanes and extending the converted lanes to Catawba Avenue (Exit 28) in Cornelius.

2011: NCDOT decided to approach the project as a P3 and the MPO amended the Long Range Plan to include Express Lanes on I-77.

2012: Final scope of the project is defined.

2013: 4 teams are pre-qualified to submit a bid.

2014: Project is awarded and Comprehensive Agreement is executed.

2015: Financial Close, Commencement of Construction.

• Public Funds $95 million,

• Private Equity $248 million,

• Debt $293 million.

2018: Scheduled Opening.

Timeline of the Project

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Project Improvements

A correct alignment of incentives in the P3 structure has driven a number of changes with a positive impact in the project.

1. Improved access to Charlotte’s financial district.

• Redesign I-77/I-277 Interchange.

2. Improved configuration of intermediate entries and exits:

• Additional intermediate entries and exits.

3. Additional access points.

• I-85 Connectors.

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I-77/I-277 Interchange

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New entries and exits

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New entries and exits

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Express Lanes

General Purpose Lanes

Entrance Only Zone

Exit Only Zone

Express Lanes

General Purpose Lanes

Transfer Area

Express Lanes

General Purpose Lanes

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I-85 Direct Connectors

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Project Improvements

These changes result in:

• Reduced construction complexity, utilities and ROW.

• Increased accessibility to the Express Lanes for its users.

• Increased potential use of the Express Lanes and reduction of

congestion.

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Under Construction

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