NCDOT Says Fortify Work On Schedule

The folks in the N.C. Department of Transportation tell us that crews on the Fortify I-40/440 Rebuild Project are on schedule.

Crews began shifting eastbound lanes last week from the Jones Franklin Road bridge to Lake Wheeler Road as they work toward moving traffic over to begin removing and demolishing the median and inside lanes of the existing roadway. If the weather cooperates, the shifts should be completed this week.

In July, workers are scheduled to complete traffic shifts on the remaining portion of I-40 between Lake Wheeler Road and the I-40/440 split. This section will also involve lane reductions. Areas of the road that are currently four and five lanes will be reduced to three lanes.

The three-lane traffic pattern will remain in effect for the duration of the project, which is expected to be complete by late 2016.

NCDOT also wants to remind drivers that one South Saunders Street exit is closed in each direction to allow Fortify crews to safely do bridge and interchange work. The closures will remain in effect for about a year, and drivers will have the option to turn right or left at the bottom of each of the remaining ramps.

Signs are posted in advance of the exit in both directions to notify drivers of the changes, and NCDOT has also created a short video to help guide drivers.