Press release from NCDOT:
Contractors for the N.C. Department of Transportation will close two sections of Interstate 26 East tonight necessitating two detours for drivers between Asheville and Hendersonville.
In Buncombe County, I-26 East will close no earlier than 7 p.m. from Brevard Road (Exit 33) to Long Shoals Road. Drivers will be detoured onto N.C. 191 (Brevard Road) to Clayton Road to Long Shoals Road and back to I-26 East.
Crews will move the segment lifter — a large blue machine visible from the interstate — from the east side of the work zone to the west side to continue building the new Blue Ridge Parkway bridge during this closure.
In Henderson County, I-26 East will close no earlier than 7 p.m. from U.S. 25 Business (Exit 44) to U.S. 64 (Exit 49). Drivers will be detoured on Asheville Highway (U.S. 25 Business) to U.S. 64 West and back to I-26 East. Crews will shift traffic onto new concrete from Clear Creek Road to U.S. 64.
Traffic lights will remain green longer along the detour routes to accommodate additional I-26 traffic during the overnight closure, and both sections should open by 6 a.m.
These operations are part of the I-26 widening projects — one in each county — that will improve safety and reduce travel times along the critical transportation corridor.
NCDOT officials remind drivers to remain alert, obey all posted traffic signs and drive with caution in work zones and along detours.
For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.
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