Charlotte residents can look forward to a new addition to their commuting options, as construction is set to begin on the I-85 North Bridge project. The initiative includes the creation of a new two-lane street that will bridge the gap between Research Drive and J.W. Clay Boulevard in the northeastern part of the city. According to a recent announcement, the development is not just limited to roadways but includes the construction of two new bridges—one over Doby Creek and another that will stretch across I-85 itself.
The intent is to not only serve as a connective tissue for University City's living and commercial spaces to the job-rich University Research Park on the opposite side, but also to quickly provide relief from the traffic that currently burdens both the W.T. Harris Boulevard and Mallard Creek Church Road interchanges.
However, the best-laid plans of infrastructure and men oftentimes are at the mercy of the elements. Weather or other unexpected events are considered, with city officials and construction workers prepared to swiftly address any challenges that may arise. For concerns regarding the construction, the city has provided points of contact, including David Burke, the Construction Inspector, at 980.556.6332, Kendall Griffin, the Construction Supervisor, at 704.517.4643, and Adam Jarman, the Engineering Project Manager, at 980.850.8185.
