In June 2014, the N.C. Department of Transportation and
I-77 Mobility Partners, a limited liability corporation created by Cintra specifically for this project, signed a Comprehensive Agreement for the delivery of the I-77 Express Lanes project. This agreement established North Carolina's first public-private partnership to design, build, finance, operate and maintain highway infrastructure.
As a result of concerns voiced by some residents and local leaders about the contract, NCDOT utilized the services of an independent consultant,
Mercator Advisors LLC, to conduct a formal, in-depth review of all aspects of the contract and project.
On Aug. 10, 2017, Mercator released a draft report to receive public feedback. Members of the public provided feedback on the report through NCDOT's website and by email.
On Sept. 19, 2017, Mercator released a final report of its review, which included public comments and concerns regarding the contract. The report is presented as an addendum to the draft report and provided a list of options for NCDOT and an assessment of each of those options.
The draft report, final report as well as other documents and presentations about the review can be found below on this page.
Although the final report has been released, the department always welcomes public feedback, which
can be submitted through this website.
About the Review
Mercator's scope of work included:
- Analyzed the allocation of key project risks and the potential financial liabilities assumed or shared by each partner
- Reviewed comments and suggestions submitted by project stakeholders and the public
- Evaluated the merits and potential costs associated with various policy options
More information about the scope of work is available in
a presentation to the Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization on April 19, 2017. The
latest presentation was Sept. 19, 2017.
NCDOT selected Mercator to lead this effort because it had no previous involvement in the project and had an extensive transportation finance background. The firm provided a wide array of financial consulting services to public agencies that sponsor major infrastructure projects and capital assistance programs. Mercator's clients include federal, state and local governmental agencies.
The N.C. Turnpike Authority staff facilitated the review process since it was not part of the original I-77 contract negotiations. The Turnpike Authority also supported Mercator's data and logistical needs.
The cost of the review was approximately $100,000.
I-77 Express Lanes Local Advisory Group
In response to recommendations from local community leaders, the N.C. Department of Transportation created a local advisory group.
Local towns, counties and chambers along the project corridor selected a member to represent their areas. Group participants will provided input on the options identified in the Mercator Advisors report.
The advisory group first met Jan. 24, 2018.
Upcoming Meetings
There are currently no upcoming meetings.
Local Advisory Group Meetings
Related Documents
Final Report
Draft Report
Presentations
Local Advisory Group Meetings