Outlet mall in Mebane opens Friday

The outlet mall, just off Interstate 85, will welcome celebrities and shoppers for its inaugural weekend beginning with a ribbon cutting at noon on Friday.

Mebane police plan to have eight off-duty officers guiding traffic along Mebane Oaks Road and on the interstate ramps, according to Assistant Chief Allen Byrd.

State troopers will keep an eye on interstate traffic but do not expect any significant back-ups, Trooper Greg Ingram said.

Tanger's developer spent about $1 million to widen the ramps from the interstate at Mebane Oaks Road and improve Arrowhead Boulevard, which is where Tanger is located.

Those who wish to avoid any shopping center congestion are advised to use U.S. Highway 70 through downtown Mebane.

Nearby businesses are already seeing a boost from the new neighbor. A McDonald's on Mebane Oaks Road got a makeover, including a new facade and double drive-thru lanes, said owner Cliff Haley.