RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA — The second phase of the Complete 540 project in North Carolina officially began with a groundbreaking ceremony held Thursday. Once finished, the two-phase, approximately $2.5 billion project will extend the Triangle Expressway by about 18 miles and complete the outer loop around Raleigh.
WSP is the prime construction engineering and inspection (CEI) consultant of NC 540 Phase 2.
“Partnering with the North Carolina Turnpike Authority on this transformational project will not only improve local mobility and help ease traffic congestion on other major thoroughfares, but also foster economic growth and opportunities in the greater Raleigh region,” said Mark Luther, senior vice president and district business line leader with WSP.
The $740-million Phase 2 project will extend the Triangle Expressway 10.8 miles, from I-40 to the existing I-540 at I-87/ U.S. 64/U.S. 264 in Knightdale. This includes six interchanges, 24 bridges and 14 culverts, with construction scheduled for completion in late 2028.
The project is expected to improve local mobility by adding five new interchange connections to the local roadway network, as well as a crossing over the Neuse River. It will enhance safety by providing an additional evacuation route from the coastlines in case of emergencies.
Once completed, the Triangle Expressway extension will mirror the existing Triangle Expressway as a 70 miles per hour, six-lane all-electronic toll facility. Phase 2 is scheduled to open to traffic in 2028.
Major aspects of the work will include mass grading, soil stabilization, drainage, asphalt and concrete paving, signals, lighting, Intelligent Transport Systems components, utilities, environmental compliance, maintenance of traffic, structures including bridges, culverts, and walls, railroad coordination, CPM (critical path method) schedule reviews, and public awareness activities to keep the local stakeholders informed on the project’s progress and traffic impacts.
About WSP in the U.S.
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world’s leading engineering, environment and professional services firms. Recognized in 2023 on TIME’s list of the world’s best companies and Fortune’s Change the World list, WSP is driving social impact and commitment to ESG. WSP in the U.S. brings together engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals who are dedicated to collaborate in the best interests of serving local communities. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 14,000 employees in 300 offices across the U.S., WSP partners with its clients to help communities prosper. wsp.com
Download press release
