NCDOT installs signs for interstate that isn’t finished yet

Drivers on Interstate 40 near Greensboro might notice new signs directing drivers to a new interstate highway to Danville, Va.

But Interstate 785 isn’t quite ready for traffic just yet: The first segment of the freeway connecting I-40 and I-85 east of Greensboro to U.S. 29 on the city’s northeast side remains under construction.

An N.C. Department of Transportation spokesman said Monday that the I-785 signs were installed “early” and that the road isn’t scheduled to open until October.

Any drivers who follow the signs now will find that the freeway ends after a couple miles. Signs then direct them to use U.S. 70 and U.S. 29 to reach Danville and towns along the way, such as Reidsville.

The I-785 section under construction is part of the Greensboro Urban Loop project, which will encircle the city. The southern half of the loop, which is part of I-85 and I-73, has been open for years.

Other segments are currently under construction and will extend the road from Bryan Boulevard to U.S. 220 and U.S. 29 on Greensboro’s north side; those sections are scheduled to open in 2018.

Most of U.S. 29 between Danville and Greensboro will continue to have “Future I-785” signs for years to come, as NCDOT hasn’t yet funded upgrades to the highway that will allow it to meet federal standards for the interstate designation.

This story was originally published February 20, 2017 at 5:04 PM with the headline "NCDOT installs signs for interstate that isn’t finished yet."