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First responders test out new Monroe Expressway

By Mark Barber
By Mark Barber

UNION COUNTY, N.C. — First responders explored the twists and turns of the new Monroe Expressway Thursday to help improve response time when the toll lanes open later this month.

The 18-mile shortcut through Union County opens Nov. 27.

"In an emergency or first response situation, timing is critical, so it's very important for first responders to know where things are," said Dennis Jernigan, with the North Carolina Turnpike Authority.

Crews already know the routes on U.S. Highway 74, which is the main artery through Union County.

The new tolls are still unfamiliar and open up new space for new problems, so drivers were glad to see the training.

[Monroe Expressway set to open next month]

"It makes me feel good that they just want to make sure everything is done right, and they're prepared before they open to the public," motorist Bryant Young said.

The toll road cost $460 million to build and at that price delivers all the latest technology.

There is an extensive camera system that will help officials figure out where emergencies are happening and what they will be responding to.

The toll will cost $2.54 and save up to 40 minutes.

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