HUNTERSVILLE, N.C. — A new traffic pattern is now in effect at the intersection of Gilead Road and Exit 23 on Interstate 77 in Huntersville. On Sunday, drivers are putting the new pattern to the test.
The changes include the removal of left turns on U.S. 21 at Gilead Road and a new "diverging diamond" traffic pattern at the I-77 Exit 23 interchange.
Diverging diamonds work by directing traffic onto the opposite side of the road than usual. Their intention is to allow easier access to interstates because drivers can enter the interstates without turning in front of oncoming traffic.
Similar interchanges are already present in Charlotte, Concord, Kannapolis, Cornelius, Statesville, and other areas of North Carolina, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
The NCDOT said its goal is to improve long-term traffic flow and safety in the high-traffic area.
The changes may cause some confusion at first, so, drivers are advised to be careful and have patience while navigating the affected area.
The Huntersville Police Department posted the following message on social media:
When driving through a diverging diamond interchange, motorists proceed through a traffic signal at the entrance to the interchange and simply follow their lane to the opposite side of the roadway.
• Motorists accessing the interstate have two options:
1. Before they cross to the other side at the traffic signal, drivers may go right to reach the on-ramp.
2. After they have crossed to the other side, drivers may simply turn left, without having to stop or wait for any oncoming traffic, to reach the on-ramp to go in the other direction.
• Motorists going straight through the intersection proceed through a second traffic signal and follow their lane back to the right side of the road.
Pavement markings and signals direct motorists to where they need to go.
Drivers will also notice the interchange has affected the Gilead Road and US 21 (Statesville Road) intersection. You cannot turn left anymore.
NCDOT encourages drivers to plan for extra time to become familiar with the new traffic pattern.