UPDATE

By Dave Vieser

Jan. 9 Even in its final phases, the construction of the DDI at Exit 28 is still a road to controversy. Attentive Cornelius motorists have probably noticed by now that the electronic sign message about this weekend’s closure contradicts what the town says on its website.

The town said the work could last to Monday morning; the DOT signs say it will be overSunday morning. Now it appears the DOT is sticking to its guns and the bridge will be closed for no more than 24 hours—at least that’s what the DOT says.

The closing at midnight tonight will permit crews to install a nautically themed mast-and-cable superstructure. While crossing the bridge will be prohibited, eastbound motorists will still be able to enter I-77 southbound, while westbound cars will be able to enter I-77 northbound.

The $6 million bridge redo is statewide news. Gov. Pat McCrory will christen the bridge in a special ceremony later this month or early next month. It’s the inaugural effort of the state’s  “Art That Moves You” program.

According to Mayor Chuck Travis, the high tension cables rising 38 feet above the roadway will be an iconic landmark for travelers on I-77, boosting tourism and retail as well as branding Cornelius as the Lake Town.