First part of I-77 toll lanes finally will open Saturday. Here’s what you need to know

After 3 1/2 years of construction that’s brought traffic headaches and controversy, the first stretch of Interstate 77 toll lanes is scheduled to open Saturday in the Lake Norman area, project officials said Friday.

Drivers can begin using the lanes at 10 a.m. along the northern end of the project, from Hambright Road, south of I-77 Exit 23 in Huntersville, to N.C. 150, Exit 36, in Mooresville, officials with I-77 Mobility Partners said.