I-85/I-485 Interchange

A project that has racked up awards. The I-85/I-485 Interchange, North Carolina, is a superstar among highways. It has indeed received numerous accolades, including the number one spot in the 2012 Top 10 Roads ranking by Roads and Bridges Magazine, and in 2015, the National Award of Merit from the Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA).

The project involved the study and construction of an interchange between Interstate 85 and Interstate 485 (Charlotte Outer Eastern Loop). The extension of I-85 and I-485 was necessary to accommodate a new interchange configuration and to align with improvements already made on other highways.

Comprising innovative technologies, the turbine-style design of the interchange allows traffic circulation on the left around a central bridge, counterclockwise, creating smooth movement between the two highways.

Another key aspect of the project was the replacement of the Mallard Creek Road bridge on I-85 and the creation of new ramps connecting I-85 to the new interchange.