The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) announced that Interstate 40 will reopen with one lane in each direction by New Year’s Day.
Hurricane Helene caused the Pigeon River to wash away major portions of the eastbound lanes, which left the interstate impassable in four sections. A contractor is now working on a stabilization project to secure the westbound lanes on I-40.
The reopening will provide a temporary solution, allowing vehicles to travel 40 miles per hour over a 9-mile stretch. Crews will work on long-term repairs while the temporary lanes are open.
“We are optimistic that our contract partners can complete the work, establish one narrow lane in each direction and create a safe work zone for the long-term restoration,” Wanda Payne, NCDOT’s division 14 engineer, said. “We are working to open I-40 when it is safe, and it will be tight conditions for everybody. But if everybody is patient, everybody can get through.”
NCDOT is implementing measures to reduce travel delays, including hiring a quick-tow service and additional incident management assistance patrols.
“Opening one lane in both directions reestablishes critical connectivity for the transport of good and services to and through mountains,” Payne said. “Like many things in our area, it will not be like it was for a long time, but it will be better than we’ve had in recent weeks.”
The long-term solution for I-40 is still under development. NCDOT is working with design and construction firms to determine the best course of action.
Source: WRAL, Ashville Citizen-Times
