Charlotte-based I-77 Mobility Partners is financing, developing, designing, constructing, operating and maintaining the 26-mile project. NCDOT retains ownership of the roadway and helps ensure I-77 Mobility Partners adheres to the standards of their contractual partnership. Construction, managed by Sugar Creek Construction, began in 2015. I-77 Express opened in November 2019.

By converting the current High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes to Express Lanes, more vehicles will travel more quickly through the north corridor. During each trip, motorists will be able to decide if they want to use the express lanes, the general-purpose lanes or a combination of both to allow for a more efficient drive.