CLAYTON, N.C. -- The state Department of Transportation says an anticipated bypass in Clayton is almost a year ahead of schedule.

The bypass is a nine-mile long expressway that goes around Highway 70, east of Clayton, to Interstate 40, east of Garner. It is expected to cut the commuting time of Johnston county residents by 20 minutes.

The NCDOT has been working on the $123 million project for three years. The News and Observer reports that dry, warm weather has allowed crews to complete the project 11 months ahead of schedule.

The bypass is now expected to open in June of this year.