The ribbon cutting for the grand opening began at noon, but eager shoppers jammed Interstate 40/85 hours earlier. Many told ABC11 they waited 40 minutes to get off the highway.
While shoppers will enjoy the discounts, others will enjoy the jobs.
Excitement over the economic impact of the outlet has been building for months. With 80 stores, the Tanger Outlet Mall is expected to create more than 800 jobs. Shoppers can expect to see Saks Off Fifth, Banana Republic, Gap, Coach, Brooks Brothers and Nike -- just to name a few.
Tanger expects to generate $7 million in sales tax, making it a win-win for shoppers and residents.
One reason developers chose the area outside of Mebane is because of its central location to I-85 and I-40. However, the area could become congested with the increased traffic.
The N.C. Department of Transportation is warning motorists the heavy traffic will likely continue through the weekend.
The outlets are located at Exit 154, but drivers can use two alternate exits: Exit 153 to N.C. 119, also known as Mebane Oaks Road, or exit 157 to Buckhorn Road.
Portable message boards will be operating to advise motorists of congested areas along the interstate.
Outlet security will staff parking lots, and Mebane police will manage major intersections to monitor and adjust traffic signals as needed.
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