Postponement of I-40 Bridge Rehabilitation in Asheville

Anticipated Construction Delayed Due To Unfavorable Weather Conditions

The much-anticipated rehabilitation operations on a key I-40 bridge in Asheville have been postponed due to unfavorable weather conditions, according to a press release by the N.C. Department of Transportation. Initial plans had the bridge, situated between I-26 and Hendersonville Road, scheduled for closure over the upcoming weekend to allow contract crews to carry out the necessary reparations.

Expected Road Closure

Crews from DBA Harrison Construction Company of Asheville originally intended to close I-40 East from the I-240 East/I-26 West interchange (Exit 46B) to Hendersonville Road (Exit 50) as part of the $27.9 million interstate rehabilitation project. The closure was planned to take place from 8 p.m. Friday through 6 a.m. Monday to facilitate thorough rehabilitation of the eastbound bridge over Hominy Creek and Hominy Creek Road.

Diverted Routes Available

Motorists were made aware of the scheduled closure and subsequent detours through digital signs across the area. The main detour directs drivers to use I-240 East, while the ramp from I-26 West to I-40 East was also programmed for closure with message boards guiding traffic to take I-240 East in place of I-40 East. Access from Brevard Road to I-40 East was likewise planned to be restricted, pointing motorists instead towards the marked detour around the I-240 East route.

Key Rehabilitation Works

The scheduled operations intended to remove existing old concrete from the bridge deck through a process known as hydro-demolition. This process would then have been followed by reinforcement with a new, modified concrete to enhance the overall driving surface. Additionally, other key bridge components, such as substructure components and piers, were to be checked and repaired as necessary.

Comprehensive Improvement Goals

Overall, the extensive interstate rehabilitation project aims not just for the refurbishment of the I-40 bridge over Hominy Creek and Hominy Creek Road, but also includes the resurfacing of the roadways and overlays on key bridges. The scope of work also covers two more bridges over the French Broad River and is projected for completion by spring of 2026.

Stay Connected

For real-time updates on the status of the construction works, detours, and the anticipated reopening of the road, the public is advised to closely monitor the NCDOT social media pages and DriveNC.gov.