Weekend Closure: I-40 West in Asheville for Bridge Work - Detours and Timings Inside

A section of Interstate 40 West will be closed this weekend to facilitate bridge repairs between Interstate 26 and Hendersonville Road, as reported by the N.C. Department of Transportation. Motorists can check DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media for real-time travel updates.

I-40 West section will be closed

The closure will affect a 4-mile stretch of I-40 West, with the area between Hendersonville Road at Exit 50 and I-26 being impacted. This closure is set to begin at 8 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 23, and the road is expected to reopen at 6 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 26.

Detour Routes

During the closure, the primary detour will utilize I-240 West, starting at Exit 53B. Digital signs will be posted in the area to direct motorists along the detour route. Additionally, the Brevard Road on-ramp to I-40 West will be closed, and traffic will be diverted to the I-240 West detour route

Reasons for Closure

The closure is necessary to allow crews from DBA Harrison Construction Co. of Asheville to carry out repairs on the westbound bridge over the French Broad River. Planned operations for the weekend include scarifying the bridge over the French Broad River, as stated by NCDOT in the news release.

Project Scope and Timeline

This work is part of a $27.9 million interstate rehabilitation project, which includes roadway resurfacing and bridge overlays. The project will also address spalling concrete on bridge substructure components such as the piers and will enhance the riding surface of the four I-40 bridges over Hominy Creek and the two bridges over the French Broad River. Rehabilitation efforts are expected to be completed by spring 2026.

Traffic Management Plans

According to the 2024 traffic plan, there will be phases of nighttime lane closures for activities like asphalt resurfacing, guardrail installation, concrete drainage construction, and pavement marker placement. Alternative options that would involve regular daytime closures were considered but would have resulted in prolonged traffic disruptions and an extended contract length.