LAKE NORMAN, N.C. -- NCDOT transportation secretary Jim Trogdon announced an action plan for the controversial Interstate 77 express lanes project Wednesday.

Previously reported:

• NC House removes funding from I-77 toll project
• Amendment could make it easier to get out of I-77 toll lane contract
• Experts: Controversial I-77 tolls project could hurt region's economy

The action plan responds to the feedback from residents and the I-77 local advisory group. 

Trogdon says as the team moves forward, they will be able to identify which options to improve the contract will be "achieved most quickly." 

At the meeting on Wednesday, Trogdon presented the following action plan, which is listed in full below:

Main Objective:
-    North Carolina will ultimately operate this facility

Improve the day-to-day concerns by negotiating better terms for drivers such as:
-    Toll limits to cap the maximum amount that can be charged
-    Frequent user discounts
-    Allow medium size trucks to travel in the express lanes

Expand non-toll capacity
-    Pursue multiple paths to provide non-tolled capacity including:
o    Hardened shoulders during peak travel periods
o    Convert one toll lane to a general purpose lane (3+1) exit 23-28 and add one general purpose lane (3+1) exit 28-36
o    Develop and implement a process to continually evaluate contract purchase under STI (required to reach goal of operating facility)
o    Auxiliary lanes to allow for local drivers traveling short distances (exit 23-25, 25-28, and 33-35)

Protect residents
-    Provides path that is legal, fiscally responsible
-    Open and transparent process ensures North Carolinians have an opportunity to participate in process before a decision is made

Several constraints exist that must be addressed before many of the action items can be completed. Trogdon said NCDOT will work to address these as they pursue each action item.

•    STI requires projects be scored based on technical data such as traffic congestion, and then be prioritized for funding. For more information about how STI works, click here.
•    State law (2018 budget - Senate Bill 99) requires NCDOT to report any proposed contract modifications or cancellations to the N.C. General Assembly at least 60 days in advance of finalization.
•    State law (2018 budget – Senate Bill 99) defines impacts to funding for other projects as it relates to the bonus allocation and project (corridor) cap.
•    New or modified construction will require design time and possible permitting.
•    Contract modifications must be negotiated with the developer.