Why aren’t the lights on? NCDOT explains dark stretch of I-440 through Raleigh, Cary

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Construction to handle future traffic continues on the Beltline between Raleigh and Cary. One viewer wrote in asking why, with all the improvements, they still have a hard time seeing.

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Thousands of drivers travel through I-440 between Raleigh and Cary every day. Traffic volumes are growing every year, with the North Carolina Department of Transportation estimating a 68% uptick in traffic by 2045 in that area.

It’s why NCDOT is in the midst of a $475 million upgrade to the section of I-440 between Walnut Street in Cary and Wade Avenue in Raleigh.

Changes include the addition of lanes, repaving and upgrades to interchanges. 

A viewer wrote in to CBS 17 reporter Judith Retana with concerns about visibility in the area at night.

They asked, “…curious to see if you can find information on why the Beltline light poles are not on at all at night, pretty much from Wade Ave. exit to Jones Franklin.”

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New lampposts can be seen all down the improved section of I-440, so CBS 17 went to ask NCDOT officials for answers.

NCDOT said the improvement project is almost finished. They plan to turn the lights on near the end of the project, which is scheduled for mid- to late summer. 

While much of the work is already done, drivers will have even better driving conditions when these lampposts can light the way.

If you have a question about a construction project in your area or if there is anything else just driving you crazy, you can reach out to Judith via email at [email protected]. 

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