Closures and detours along Raleigh Beltline could impact drivers this week

Get ready for delays and closures along the Beltline this week as part of the ongoing I-440 improvement project. Crews are constructing a new section of I-440 West between Western Boulevard and Melbourne Road. They're also repairing the Jones Franklin ramp on I-440 E after storm damage.

Impacts for I-440 W and the Melbourne Road exit

The Melbourne Road exit on I-440 West will be closed beginning Monday, which could impact the morning commute for some drivers.

The detour will take drivers to Jones Franklin, Western Boulevard or Powell Drive to get back to Melbourne Road.

This work will be happening periodically overnight, so it may not impact your day to day travel.

Impacts for I-440 E and the Jones Franklin ramp

Crews are also closing the I-440 East ramp to Jones Franklin for repairs after recent storm damage.

They may have to close the Jones Franklin exit on I-440 East.

Drivers will be detoured to Western Boulevard and I-440 West until the Jones Franklin exit reopens.

NC DOT explains why widening project improves safety, reduces traffic congestion

Aaron Moody with the NCDOT says the construction of this new section of I-440 W between Western Boulevard and Melbourne Road is most needed.

"You're obviously helping those peak travel times to not bottleneck in that area. It reduces congestion and increases safety," he said.

The timeline is never guaranteed for construction projects like this, because it depends on weather conditions, but Moody says they're hoping to reopen the Melbourne Road exit by next Monday, July 17.