Overnight I-26 Closures Announced: What You Need to Know
ASHEVILLE – The N.C. Department of Transportation, alongside contractors, has outlined a series of overnight closures for Interstate 26 this week to accommodate ongoing construction efforts. These closures are essential for paving the way towards significant infrastructure improvements in Buncombe and Henderson counties.
Each night, a specified segment of the interstate will close no earlier than 8 p.m., reopening by 6 a.m. Detours will be clearly marked, with traffic lights adjusted to remain green longer, ensuring smooth navigation through alternate routes.
The most notable change will occur Thursday night, when eastbound traffic will be redirected onto newly laid concrete.
Scheduled Closures
Monday —
- Location: I-26 East from Brevard Road (Exit 33) to Airport Road (Exit 40) and the Airport Road onramp
- Detour: I-40 East to Hendersonville Road (Exit 50), then south 12 miles to I-26 at Exit 44
Tuesday —
- Location: I-26 East from Brevard Road (Exit 33) to Long Shoals Road (Exit 37)
- Detour: Brevard Road (N.C. 191) south to Long Shoals Road, then east to I-26
Wednesday —
- Location: I-26 East from Brevard Road (Exit 33) to U.S. 64 (Exit 49)
- Detour: I-40 East to Hendersonville Road (Exit 50), south through Hendersonville to U.S. 176 East, then to Upward Road to re-access at Exit 53
Thursday —
- Location: I-26 East from Brevard Road (Exit 33) to U.S. 25 (Exit 44)
- Detour: I-40 East to Hendersonville Road (Exit 50), then south 12 miles to I-26 at Exit 44
On Thursday, a significant traffic shift will move I-26 East closer to the French Broad River, from Long Shoals Road exit to Fanning Bridge Road in Henderson County. This adjustment will facilitate the completion of safety walls, median shoulders, and eventually, the application of final pavement markings.
Additionally, weather conditions will play a crucial role in determining another closure for I-26 West in Henderson County later this week. Dry weather is necessary to finalize the traffic pattern from U.S. 64 to Clear Creek Road.
These closures are part of the broader I-26 widening projects aimed at enhancing transportation infrastructure in the region. The scheduled operations include diamond-grinding, concrete work on the Blue Ridge Parkway bridge, and preparations for a traffic shift in Buncombe County.
Transportation officials urge drivers to plan their routes in advance, adhere to all posted signage, and remain vigilant while navigating the affected areas.
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