News

I-26 project in Henderson County is complete, NCDOT announces

By Lightning Reports, Published: July 29, 2025

The final overnight closures of Interstate 26 in Henderson County related to the widening project are set to occur this week.

“There will be no more full closures in Henderson County,” Resident Engineer Mike Patton said. “As far as what the travelling public will notice, our project in Henderson County is complete.”

NCDOT forces — instead of contract crews — plan to assume maintenance responsibilities of the interstate between U.S. 64 (Exit 49) and Airport Road (Exit 40) starting this weekend. The contract completion date is Jan. 1.

During the overnight closures this week, crews will install the remaining snow-plowable markers, remove trash and complete other miscellaneous tasks. Drivers should visit www.DriveNC.gov for closure details.

After this week, contract forces will continue installing a weigh-in-motion system, which will replace a weigh station for trucks on I-26 East. The system uses sensors to measure truck weight and other data while a vehicle is moving.

Construction operations for I-26 widening will continue in Buncombe County including the creation of a new interchange, which has been added since construction began.

For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media.