N.C. Department of Transportation contractors will begin pavement work on a section of north and southbound I-85 between mile markers 93 and 97 near Lexington; prompting alternating lane and ramp closures closures for the next month and a half.

The work involves placing what is called an open-graded friction course overlay on the road surface. It will improve the safety of the travel lanes in this area by adding better skid-resistance for the road surface in rain events.

“This type of pavement overlay will help to make vehicles less prone to hydroplaning during inclement weather,” said Division Nine Assistant District Engineer Phillip Craver.

Work will involve ramp milling and paving as well as mainline milling, pavement marking and resurfacing.

Work will take place nightly from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Monday, July 11, and is expected to be complete by Wednesday, Aug. 31.

NCDOT reminds the traveling public to watch signs for construction information, stay alert and obey the Move Over Law.

The law which requires motorists to move over one lane, if possible, or reduce speed for stopped construction and emergency vehicles with flashing lights on the shoulder of the highway. Violating the law could result in a $250 fine.