RALEIGH – On Sept. 24 at 10 a.m., the N.C. Turnpike Authority (NCTA) and the N.C. Department of Transportation officially cut the ribbon on Complete 540 Phase 1, an 18-mile extension of the Triangle Expressway.
This new extension, which stretches from the N.C. 55 Bypass in Apex to the I-40/I-42 interchange in Garner, is now open to traffic. Known as the Triangle Expressway/Toll N.C. 540, this new travel option is expected to enhance connectivity and reduce travel times for commuters and residents.
“The excitement surrounding this long-anticipated project is contagious,” said J.J. Eden, Executive Director of NCTA. “The Triangle Expressway will be instrumental in supporting the region’s growth and development, providing a reliable and efficient transportation option for all.”
Drivers should be aware that some final construction activities will be ongoing at various locations along the Triangle Expressway and cross streets.
Photo and video footage from the ribbon cutting ceremony are available.
Phase 2 of the Complete 540 project is currently under construction and will extend the Triangle Expressway an additional 10 miles from I-40/I-42 to the existing I-540/I-87/U.S. 64/U.S. 264 interchange in Knightdale, providing the final link to complete the 540 loop. Phase 2 is anticipated to be completed by late 2028.