Uptown to Exit 36 (Cornelius: live, safe, radio)

[Fireflychik]

I have to go from uptown to exit 36 on 77 at 4:30 today. How long does that ride usually take people? I know it backs up near exit 23. Thanks!

[joethoma]

There will be stop-and-go, but you should be able to make it in a hour or less, especially in you leave by 4:30

[uncgirl98]

I live at Exit 23, work at exit 30. I'd agree with giving yourself an hour. Make sure to keep an eye on the traffic reports to make sure nothing has gone crazy. If it stays backed up, you can get off at 31 or 33 and take 115 or Williamson to get to either side of Exit 36 also.

[lumbollo]

Unfortunately Friday afternoons tend to be worse headed up that way.

[anifani821]

Yep, I'd say give yourself an hour . . . and as uncgirl98 said - have a back up plan in case there is an accident and things get crazy. Better to plan so that you are early rather than late.

[kchenette]

Definitely an hour...and listen to the radio or google map traffic... because up before Exit 23 where it narrows from 4 to 2 lanes is a clogged up mess at peak time with everyone merging. I usually get off @Exit 18 and go up 21 all the way to Cornelius and then hop back on 77...however, all the rubbernecking happening at the lake between exits 28 & 30 and 30 & 31 has been really choking traffic later in the day as well. It may very well only take a half an hour depending on what's going on...but better leave enough time, just in case. Safe travels!

[Fireflychik]

Thanks for the suggestions everyone! These are very helpful.

[newcomerfromuk]

during periods of mild traffic, it takes 25-30 minutes. During times of heavy traffic, it takes 30-45 minutes. This is without any accidents which can extend the times tremendously.

[uncgirl98]

Just came from Exit 23 to Exit 30. Not sure what is going on, but the interstate was already a parking lot (usually isn't this early). I took 115 all the way instead.

[Dakota4791]

It once took me 2 hours to get from uptown to exit 36... I'm SOOOO glad I don't live up there anymore.
4:30 shouldn't be bad, but you never know how many people will slow down to look at the lake.