By: Ms Jheri Worldwide
Staff Writer
As progress and growth continue, residents of the greater Raleigh area have a new way to navigate the region with the opening of the latest extension of the Triangle Expressway. The North Carolina Turnpike Authority (NCTA) announced that Phase 1 of the Complete Toll N.C. 540 project officially opened to traffic on September 25 at 6:00AM. This new stretch of road extends from the N.C. 55 Bypass in Apex to the I-40/I-42 interchange in Garner, adding a new route for drivers seeking faster commutes and smoother connections.
The NCTA is encouraging drivers to take advantage of the new extension while also sharing a few tips for a seamless experience on the road. “An NC Quick Pass account is the easiest and most cost-effective way to pay tolls,” says NCTA. “Customers with a NC Quick Pass account save 35% on tolls in North Carolina and can pay tolls in 19 states.” To sign up, drivers can visit ncquickpass.com or use the NC Quick Pass app. For those who prefer not to open an account, a toll invoice will be sent by mail at a higher rate, with payment options available online.
NCTA advises using the online Toll Calculator to estimate costs before hitting the road. “A map and toll rates for the entire Triangle Expressway, including the new extension, can be found on our Roads and Rates page,” they note on their press release.
Even with the opening drivers should be prepared for some ongoing construction work. Not all parts of the new extension are ready yet. This could include lighting and signage installation, additional roadway work, and updates to toll technology, which might lead to occasional lane closures. NCTA noted, “The eastbound half of the Bells Lake Road interchange (exit 47) will remain closed until November 2024. The westbound portion will open to traffic with the rest of the project on September 25. Until the eastbound section opens, drivers can use Ten Ten Road or Optimist Farm Road to access nearby interchanges.”
Similarly, the exit ramp from Toll N.C. 540 West to Old Stage Road (exit 43) will remain closed until November 2024 to allow for final ramp construction activities. In the meantime, drivers can use exit 39 at N.C. 50/Benson Road and navigate through Ten Ten Road or Rock Service Station Road to reach Old Stage Road.
The new extension also features a Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) at Holly Springs Road, designed to streamline traffic flow. “This innovative interchange allows for smoother and quicker access from Holly Springs Road to the Triangle Expressway, with free-flowing left and right turns,” NCTA explained. Drivers can learn more about the unique traffic pattern on the NCTA’s Diverging Diamond Interchange webpage.
The Complete 540 project aims to complete the outer loop around Raleigh, extending the Triangle Expressway from Apex to Knightdale. The current Phase 1 adds about 18 miles of roadway, while Phase 2, expected to open later, will connect the expressway from I-40 to the I-540/I-87/U.S. 64/U.S.
264 interchange in Knightdale. This project is expected to provide a more efficient route around the greater Raleigh area. With the new extension now open, drivers can look forward to a faster, more convenient route around the Triangle. For more information about the project and travel tips, visit the Complete 540 project page at ncdot.gov/complete540.
