Urgent I-40 Repairs: Expect Diversions Until Thanksgiving in Buncombe

On Oct 16, 2023

TL/DR –

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) will shut down a lane of I-40 for repairs, with a full-time lane closure starting Monday. The closure is expected to last until the week of Thanksgiving, weather permitting, and will involve a shift of traffic several feet to the right. Residents have been advised to plan for delays and to slow down and follow all signs in the work zone; the closure is said to be a better plan than temporary closures throughout winter and spring.

I-40 Lane Closure for Repairs in Buncombe County, North Carolina

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has announced an upcoming I-40 lane closure for essential repairs. Starting from Monday, a significant road repair project will begin on the left lane of I-40 West, stretching between the I-26/I-40 interchange and Smoky Park Highway (Exit 44).

The contractors selected by NCDOT will commence preparatory work on Wednesday night, instituting nightly lane closures from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. This is in order to remove existing pavement markings, preparing for a traffic shift.

Expected Duration of I-40 Repairs and Traffic Shifts

From Monday, traffic will shift several feet to the right, and the inside lane will be closed consistently until the completion of the repairs. The project is set to conclude by Thanksgiving week, however, this may be affected by weather conditions or unforeseen delays.

How the I-40 Lane Closure will Affect Commuters

NCDOT officials are urging drivers to plan trips around this repair project, expecting delays during peak commuting hours. The lane closure and subsequent traffic shift are necessary in order to extend the service life of the interstate, before a wider upgrade and addition of another lane as part of the I-26 Connector project. This project will ultimately provide smoother roads for I-40 West users.

Advisory for Drivers During the I-40 Lane Closure

Division 13 Assistant Construction Engineer Jody Lawrence emphasized the need for the road repairs and addressed potential traffic disruptions: “We know this lane has been bumpy, so we need to repair that, and we will also need that lane in good condition for the upcoming construction work. We do anticipate backups during peak hours for the next few weeks. But it’s a much better plan than temporary lane closures all through winter and into the spring.”

Drivers are advised to slow down, remain alert, and follow all posted signs in the work zone while approaching the areas of I-240 West or I-26 West, which may also experience delays during commuting hours due to the construction.