July 15. By Dave Vieser. The NC Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded a $20.8 million contract to Sealand Contractors of Midland to construct a 1.75 mile extension of Northcross Drive from Huntersville to Cornelius.

Construction is expected to begin later this year and finish up in 2026.

The extension will run from the current northern end of the road to Westmoreland Road in Cornelius. The project also includes adding a roundabout at the intersection of Westmoreland Road and Eagleridge in Cornelius.

The extension will provide an alternate north/south route between the two towns, reducing traffic volume on both Highway 21 and West Catawba Avenue.

With the widening of West Catawba Avenue delayed, it is hopeful that the Northcross Road extension will be completed before work begins on Catawba, thereby also providing a “relief valve” for traffic on West Catawba Avenue while widening takes place.