NCDOT reveals plans for major changes on Independence Blvd.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. ( QUEEN CITY NEWS ) – Major changes are in store for a major highway connecting Mecklenburg County communities.

Officials with the N.C. Department of Transportation are planning for the future of Independence Boulevard. They’re sharing their planned list of improvements stretching from Interstate 277 to the Interstate 485 loop.

There are about 70,000 people who travel the road daily. Anyone who does knows how congested it can get. Transportation leaders are hoping to change that.

“It’s probably the busiest or definitely one of the top three busiest roads except our interstates in Mecklenburg County,” said Sean Epperson, NCDOT deputy division engineer.

Bumper-to-bumper traffic is a familiar sight on the east Charlotte highway.

“Especially in the afternoons, it can get crazy out there just by the number of cars coming in,” said Harry Christopher, who travels along the road.

NCDOT officials have ideas they hope will mitigate the traffic. The plan is made up of several projects between Uptown Charlotte and Matthews. It includes widening Independence Boulevard and adding more express and general-purpose lanes.

Crews will build overpasses to get rid of several traffic lights on Independence approaching Matthews. Some of the neighboring streets will see major changes too.

“Considering the volumes on 74, what they are today and what they’re going to be over the next 20, 30 years, these are critical in making sure 74 operates efficiently and safely,” said Epperson.

The project costs combined equal more than a billion dollars in federal and state funding. Most of the construction will start between 2027 and 2029.

“It seems to me the wider Independence Boulevard gets, the better it’s going to be,” said Christopher.

More than 180 people came to East Mecklenburg High School Tuesday night to learn about the projects and give their input.

“Less focus on funding unless the funding is coming to our city and more focus on the infrastructure for anybody who doesn’t have a car,” said Jada McGirt, who lives off Independence.

While some have questions, most are happy with the proposed changes.

“I love the sort of bolstering, the strengthening our side streets,” said Parker Smith, who lives in a neighborhood along Independence.

Many people are also wondering what effect construction will have on businesses along the road. Transportation leaders said it’s too soon to know.

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