The North Carolina Turnpike Authority was created in 2002 by the General Assembly in response to concerns about rapid growth, heavy congestion and dwindling resources. The Turnpike Authority is authorized to study, plan, develop, construct, operate and maintain up to nine projects. The mission of the Turnpike Authority is to supplement the traditional non-toll transportation system by accelerating the delivery of roadway projects using alternative financing options and facilitating the development, delivery and operation of an integrated, creative system of toll roads.