GRAHAM STREET EXTENSION

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — NCDOT has opened one lane in each direction on the brand new Graham Street extension. Drivers can now take Graham Street from Sugar Creek Road to Mallard Creek Road.

“Alleluia! It’s been a long time coming. When you called me this morning, it was open, I immediately had to come drive the road,” Sylvia Cannon, President of the Derita Neighborhood Association said.

ALSO READ: 'It's supposed to be done': Derita residents frustrated with road construction delays

This is a huge relief for neighbors and local businesses. The Graham Street extension project started 6 years ago, and it was supposed to wrap up 3 years ago. Channel 9 has followed the delays due to weather and utility issues for years.

Cannon said the community has been outspoken with NCDOT, holding meetings to express their concerns about the construction.

“Cut through neighborhoods, find a different way around, traffic was horrendous, they moved barrels, trying to find a better way to move through. It was chaos,” Cannon said.

Residents frustrated over delays on Graham Street extension Residents frustrated over delays on Graham Street extension

Cannon did say NCDOT has been communicating with them on the delays -- they sent a monthly newsletter out to the neighbors.

The project isn’t done yet. Drivers will still notice cones and unfinished traffic signals. All lanes on Graham Street still need to open as well. Mineral Springs at Graham Street is still closed.

Despite this, Cannon said Thursday was a big step.

“Oh god, I’m so glad to see this. It’s been a lot of work,” Cannon said.

Cannon said NCDOT told her the project should wrap up by Spring 2020.

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