Asheville’s I-26 Undergoes Major Upgrades as Construction Resumes Following Hurricane Recovery Efforts

Asheville: Highway Upgrades Underway on I-26

In Asheville, excitement is in the air as construction crews get back to work on *Interstate 26*. That’s right! After stepping in to assist with hurricane recovery efforts in western North Carolina, contractors for the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) are now resuming their pivotal role in the ongoing upgrades to the highway. This is excellent news for everyone who travels this route!

What to Expect Tonight

Tonight, all traffic on I-26 East will come to a halt between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., specifically from I-40 to Airport Road. So, if you’re planning to head out during those hours, be sure to prepare for some detours! Contractors from the Fluor-United Joint Venture will be making critical changes by shifting traffic from old asphalt to new concrete between Brevard Road and the bridge over the *French Broad River*.

Detour Information

During the closure, drivers will be redirected to U.S. 25 South (Hendersonville Road) via I-40 East. The detour is rather straightforward. You’ll exit I-40 at exit 50, turn south on Hendersonville Road, and then continue to Airport Road, where you’ll be directed back to I-26. It’s essential to plan your trip accordingly and allow extra time for your journey!

The Bigger Picture

This operation is just one part of the broader I-26 widening projects happening in Buncombe and Henderson counties. The goal is to move traffic off the old asphalt and onto the newer, more durable concrete. By doing this, crews can start removing the old lanes, making way for the construction of new eastbound lanes over the next year. This upgrade is expected to significantly improve the flow of traffic once completed, making commutes smoother for everyone.

Recent Recovery Efforts

Before getting back to regular construction work, the teams from Fluor-United Joint Venture didn’t sit idly by. In the weeks immediately following the hurricane, they quickly jumped in to assist NCDOT with critical recovery tasks. Their efforts included cut-and-shove operations, slope stabilization, and restoring damaged roads. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, many communities began to see relief in a time of need.

Stay Informed

For those wanting real-time updates on travel and construction progress, don’t forget to check out DriveNC.gov. This is the best way to stay in the loop and avoid unexpected traffic delays. Also, you can follow NCDOT on social media for more updates and information. Being informed will definitely help you navigate the changes being made!

Your Thoughts Matter

We know that change can be a bit disruptive, but these upgrades are designed to make life easier in the long run. As work gets underway, we encourage constructive discussions about the ongoing project and how it affects you. Your voice is important, so feel free to share your thoughts while keeping the conversation respectful. Together, we can support efforts to improve our roadways.

As plans are moving forward, it’s an exciting time for Asheville! Let’s embrace the improvements that are coming our way on I-26, and appreciate the hard work that goes into keeping our roads safe and efficient.