The rapid population and economic growth in the Raleigh-Durham region placed increasing strain on existing roadways, particularly I-40 and secondary routes that lacked capacity for growing demands. Prior to the opening of Complete 540 Phase 1, travelers in southern Wake County had limited connectivity options and were often forced to rely on already congested routes. The North Carolina Department of Transportation’s Complete 540 project reduced traffic congestion and enhanced regional accessibility; promoting safety and travel efficiency with wide shoulders, lighting, electronic tolling, and wrong-way vehicle detection technology. The $1.3 billion project also improved freight movement, benefiting regional commerce. The project minimized and mitigated environmental impacts through $30 million in investments, including wetland and stream restoration and contributions to Wake County’s open space program. The corridor was carefully designed to avoid impacts to the Swift Creek watershed critical area, Clemmons Educational State Forest, and historic resources. The project also used digital synchronization tools across three design-build contracts, enabling all 18 miles to open simultaneously. The all-electronic tolling system also enabled seamless, stop-free travel, resulting in commute time savings of up to 30 minutes while eliminating safety risks associated with traditional toll booths.