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NCDOT To Add Signs, Pavement Markings For I-77 Construction Safety

New signs and pavement markings are planned for the toll lane work zone on I-77 from Charlotte to Mooresville.
David Boraks
/
WFAE
New signs and pavement markings are planned for the toll lane work zone on I-77 from Charlotte to Mooresville.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation plans new signs and other safety improvements on I-77, in the construction zone for toll lanes between Charlotte and Mooresville.

NCDOT announced the changes Friday, after a recent inspection by its top traffic engineers. That review came after recent complaints from drivers about wrecks in the work zone.

Engineers drove through the work zone at different times of day and night to check on conditions. They've made several recommendations, which the DOT says will be added by staff and its contractors:

  • Removing or re-covering unneeded and outdated signs.
  • Installing "Begin Work Zone" signs where needed.
  • Adding signs at on-ramps at major interchanges (I-277, I-85, I-485).
  • Adding “Work Zone” reminders on speed limit signs.
  • Installing raised pavement markings.

Some changes will happen next week, others will be done within a month, the DOT said.
“This site was in very good condition, but there are some improvements that can make it even better," said State Traffic Engineer Kevin Lacy.

The DOT said engineers will revisit the work zone in three to six months.

RELATED LINKS

April 6, 2017, full report on I-77 work zone safety, from NCDOT engineers, at NCDOT.gov

David Boraks previously covered climate change and the environment for WFAE. See more at www.wfae.org/climate-news. He also has covered housing and homelessness, energy and the environment, transportation and business.