News About Town: If you’ve noticed the bare landscape around I-485 and John Street, it’s part of the I-485 express lanes project. NCDOT has planned improvements for the interchange. The I-485 Express Lanes project will add one express lane (an optional toll lane with congestion-based rates) in each direction along I-485 between I-77 and Independence Boulevard. The project also includes a new interchange at Weddington Road. Learn more here.

News Around Town: If you couldn’t stay awake (raises hand) for the polls to roll in, check out the Mecklenburg Board of Elections website for the full list of results.

One Fun Thing: The North Carolina Wildlife Federation, in collaboration with two local chapters; CROWN (Charlotte) and HAWK (Matthews), will be hosting a National Wildlife Federation Habitat Stewards Training course April 21, 24, 25, and 26 at Matthews Community Center. In addition to being issued several key nature-related books and materials, course topics will include elements of a wildlife habitat, native flora and fauna, ecology, invasive plants, soil microfauna, and more. Class size is limited to 30 individuals and you must commit to attending the full course. Volunteer commitment of 30 hours post-course is required for certification. Register here.