I-85 north and south reopened again after downed powerlines: CMPD

CHARLOTTE (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — I-85 north and southbound lanes have reopened again between Statesville Road and Graham Street after downed powerlines from Saturday morning, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.

The road was sporadically closed throughout the day on Saturday.

Troopers were called to the area around 7:45 a.m. on Saturday, November 4, according to the North Carolina State Highway Patrol (NCSHP).

Officials say a vehicle went down an embankment and struck a power pole causing multiple power lines to fall over I-85.

A Queen City News photographer says there was a car off to the side of the road with power lines dragged behind it.

The power lines blocked traffic going both directions and the interstate was completely shut down for about two and a half hours.

North Carolina Department of Transportation told people going south to take Exit 48 at I-485 Outer to Exit 23 at I-77 South. From there, drivers can eventually reaccess I-85.

For those traveling north, NCDOT said to take Exit 38 at I-77 North to Exit 149 at I-485 Inner. From there, drivers can eventually reaccess I-85.