Orange County, October 18, 2025
The Interstate 40 off-ramp in Orange County will be closed for three weeks to facilitate necessary bridge maintenance and safety upgrades. The North Carolina Department of Transportation recommends using diversions through nearby exits. Commuters have been cautioned about the potential for increased traffic on local roadways during the duration of the work. It is advised to plan ahead to avoid delays.
Orange County, NC: I-40 Off-Ramp Closure for Bridge Maintenance
Orange County, NC – The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has announced a three-week closure of the eastbound off-ramp from Interstate 40 (I-40) to Old North Carolina Highway 86 (Old NC 86) in Orange County. This closure, effective from 10 p.m. on October 19 to 5 a.m. on November 10, is part of ongoing bridge maintenance and safety upgrades.
Details of the Closure
During this period, the Exit 261 off-ramp from I-40 East to Old NC 86 will be closed to facilitate necessary construction activities. Motorists who typically use this exit are advised to follow a signed detour route:
- Proceed eastbound on I-40 to Exit 263.
- Take I-40 Westbound to Exit 261.
- Exit onto Old NC 86 from the westbound side of I-40.
This detour is designed to minimize disruption and maintain traffic flow during the maintenance work.
Impact on Local Traffic
Commuters and local drivers should anticipate increased traffic on local roads due to the ramp closure. NCDOT recommends planning ahead and allowing extra travel time to accommodate potential delays. Drivers are also urged to exercise caution and adhere to all posted traffic signs and detour routes during this period.
Background on the Maintenance Project
The closure is part of NCDOT’s ongoing efforts to enhance the safety and structural integrity of bridges along the I-40 corridor in Orange County. These maintenance activities are essential to ensure the continued safety and reliability of the transportation infrastructure in the region.
Stay Informed
For real-time traffic updates and more information on this project, drivers can visit NCDOT’s official website or follow their social media channels. Staying informed will help motorists navigate the area safely and efficiently during the maintenance period.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the duration of the I-40 off-ramp closure in Orange County?
The closure will begin at 10 p.m. on October 19 and is scheduled to reopen by 5 a.m. on November 10, lasting approximately three weeks.
What is the reason for the closure of the I-40 off-ramp to Old NC 86?
The closure is necessary for bridge maintenance and safety upgrades as part of NCDOT’s ongoing efforts to enhance the structural integrity of bridges along the I-40 corridor in Orange County.
How should drivers navigate during the ramp closure?
Motorists should follow the signed detour route: proceed eastbound on I-40 to Exit 263, take I-40 Westbound to Exit 261, and then exit onto Old NC 86 from the westbound side of I-40.
Will there be increased traffic on local roads due to the closure?
Yes, drivers should anticipate increased traffic on local roads during the maintenance period and are advised to plan ahead and allow extra travel time.
Where can I find real-time traffic updates and more information about this project?
For real-time traffic updates and more information, visit NCDOT’s official website or follow their social media channels.
Key Features of the I-40 Off-Ramp Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Duration | October 19, 10 p.m. to November 10, 5 a.m. (approximately three weeks) |
| Closure Location | I-40 Eastbound off-ramp to Old NC 86 (Exit 261) |
| Reason for Closure | Bridge maintenance and safety upgrades |
| Detour Route | Proceed eastbound on I-40 to Exit 263, take I-40 Westbound to Exit 261, then exit onto Old NC 86 from the westbound side of I-40 |
| Impact on Local Traffic | Increased traffic on local roads; plan ahead and allow extra travel time |
| Stay Informed | Visit NCDOT’s official website or follow their social media channels for real-time updates |
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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.
