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Toll lanes in south and east Charlotte to be discussed

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The North Carolina Department of Transportation is considering toll lanes in south and east Charlotte that will cost about $608 million.

Leaders from the area are discussing the proposal Wednesday for the toll lanes on Interstate 485 between Interstate 77, as well as on U.S. Highway 74 from uptown Charlotte to I-485.

Many residents have expressed their opinions on the tolls.

"I am so not with the toll roads," said Mary Ann Lecarpentier, who lives in Pineville.

Last year, crews widened I-485 by one lane to be used for a future toll lane. It is not in use currently.

"Once it's done, at least you'll have the option to either ride in the traditional lanes or pay a little extra to go through the express lane," Robbin Arrington, of Charlotte, said.

The thought of toll lanes reminds many of the controversial project on I-77 that has been under construction for two years.

Mecklenburg County leaders said the proposed toll lanes on I-485 would be different.

Toll money would go toward construction and maintenance costs, not for a profit, like the company managing the toll lanes on 77.

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