Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina, October 20, 2025
Overnight closures and detours on I-26 near the Blue Ridge Parkway are set to begin as part of a critical infrastructure upgrade. The bridge removal is designed to modernize travel connections in western North Carolina. Residents and travelers are being advised to plan for delays and seek alternative routes to ensure safety during the renovation process. This initiative aims to enhance roadway safety and improve travel experiences in the area.
Asheville, North Carolina: Overnight Closures on I-26 for Bridge Removal
Asheville, North Carolina – Overnight closures on both directions of Interstate 26 (I-26) near the Blue Ridge Parkway began on Sunday, October 19, 2025. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is implementing these closures from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. nightly to facilitate the dismantling of the old Blue Ridge Parkway bridge over I-26. These closures are anticipated to last through Thursday night, with the possibility of a second work week beginning October 26, depending on the pace of the bridge removal.
Details of the Closures and Detours
During the overnight closures, traffic will be diverted as follows:
- Westbound Traffic: Detoured from Airport Road (Exit 40) north along Hendersonville Road (U.S. 25) to I-40. On Thursday night, westbound drivers will exit at U.S. 25 (Exit 44).
- Eastbound Traffic: Routed from Brevard Road (Exit 33) west on Long Shoals Road (N.C. 146) before returning to I-26 East.
To ease congestion during these closures, NCDOT has adjusted traffic signals along the detour routes for longer green light durations.
Impact on the New Blue Ridge Parkway Bridge
The new Blue Ridge Parkway bridge, which opened prior to the fall leaf season, will remain operational throughout the bridge removal process. Travelers may encounter minor delays due to construction and seasonal traffic in the vicinity.
Background on the Bridge Removal Project
The dismantling of the old Blue Ridge Parkway bridge is a vital part of the I-26 widening project in Buncombe County. The newly constructed bridge utilized pre-cast concrete sections to accommodate the expanded interstate and includes design features that reflect the traditional architecture of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Although the new bridge is currently accessible to traffic, further work will continue after the fall season, including masonry, removal of old roadway segments, and the construction of a parking area for the Mountains-to-Sea Trail.
Weather Considerations
Weather conditions may influence the maintenance schedule. The forecast for Sunday, October 19, describes considerable cloudiness with the potential for a few showers and a thunderstorm that could produce localized damaging wind gusts. Drivers are advised to remain vigilant about weather updates and adjust their travel plans accordingly.
Additional Information
For real-time updates on travel and road conditions, drivers should check the NCDOT website or follow them on social media to ensure a smoother travel experience during this maintenance period.
FAQ
What sections of I-26 will be closed?
Sections of I-26 near Asheville will be closed from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. each night, starting Sunday, October 19, for maintenance work, including the dismantling of the old Blue Ridge Parkway bridge.
How long will the closures last?
The closures are expected to continue through Thursday night, with a second week of work possible starting October 26. The exact duration will depend on the progress of the bridge removal.
What are the detour routes?
Westbound traffic will be detoured from Airport Road (Exit 40) north along Hendersonville Road (U.S. 25) to I-40; Eastbound traffic will be routed from Brevard Road (Exit 33) west on Long Shoals Road (N.C. 146) before returning to I-26 East.
Will the new Blue Ridge Parkway bridge be open?
Yes, the new Blue Ridge Parkway bridge will remain open during the maintenance work. Travelers may experience minor delays due to nearby construction and seasonal traffic.
How will weather affect the maintenance schedule?
Weather conditions may impact the maintenance schedule. The forecast for Sunday, October 19, indicates considerable cloudiness with a couple of showers and a thunderstorm, which could bring localized damaging wind gusts. Drivers should stay updated on weather conditions and plan their travel accordingly.
Key Features of the Maintenance Work
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maintenance Start Date | Sunday, October 19, 2025 |
| Closure Hours | 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. each night |
| Expected Duration | Through Thursday night, with a second week of work possible starting October 26 |
| Detour Routes | Westbound: Airport Road (Exit 40) to Hendersonville Road (U.S. 25) to I-40; Eastbound: Brevard Road (Exit 33) to Long Shoals Road (N.C. 146) to I-26 East |
| New Blue Ridge Parkway Bridge Status | Open during maintenance work; minor delays possible due to nearby construction and seasonal traffic |
| Weather Considerations | Forecast for October 19: considerable cloudiness with a couple of showers and a thunderstorm; localized damaging wind gusts possible |
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Author: Construction NC News
The NORTH CAROLINA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructionncnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in North Carolina and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina Build Expo, major infrastructure projects, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated Builders and Contractors of the Carolinas and the North Carolina Home Builders Association, plus leading businesses in construction and legal services that power the local economy such as CMiC Global and Womble Bond Dickinson LLP. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructiontxnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
