Asheville, NC, July 31, 2025
News Summary
Asheville is experiencing heavy traffic congestion primarily due to ongoing maintenance and repair works on major roads, specifically I-40. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has closed lanes causing significant delays. Additional slowdowns have been reported between key areas, exacerbated by further construction and weather conditions. Drivers are urged to remain cautious and informed about ongoing traffic disruptions.
Asheville Experiences Significant Traffic Congestion Due to Ongoing Repairs
Asheville is facing considerable traffic congestion and slow-moving conditions on several major roads today, primarily due to maintenance and repair works in the area. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has closed the right lane on I-40 near Exit 59, located outside Swannanoa, which has led to significant delays on the route connecting Black Mountain to East Asheville.
Maintenance in this area concluded at 4 p.m. on Wednesday, July 30; however, work continues, causing an ongoing impact on traffic flow. Drivers have reported additional slowdowns on I-40 west from Biltmore Village, particularly between mile markers 40 and 48. In addition, lane closures will persist throughout July due to continued construction near Brevard Road (Exit 47) and I-26 East (Exit 46-A).
Upcoming Traffic Changes
Nighttime closures on I-40 West above School Road for bridge maintenance are anticipated, extending through midnight. Furthermore, significant changes to traffic patterns on I-40 East are set for this Friday night. These changes will include the closure of the right lane between mile markers 44 (Patton Avenue/Smokey Park Highway) and 46A (I-26 East). Despite this closure, three lanes will remain open to manage traffic. This traffic configuration is expected to remain in place for approximately 18 months as crews start widening and rehabilitating I-40.
Drivers are advised to exercise caution in work zones by slowing down, staying alert, and adhering to posted signs as maintenance continues in Asheville.
Other Traffic Disruptions
Aside from ongoing maintenance projects, a long freight train recently caused a temporary shutdown of traffic in Greeneville. This incident disrupted crossings due to a mechanical issue with a railcar and coincided with sewer line work on West Main Street, resulting in significant delays on Asheville Highway, State Route 70 Bypass, and West Main Street. Fortunately, the train moved after about an hour, alleviating some congestion in the area.
Weather and Future Events
The Asheville area is also expected to experience scattered thunderstorms through Wednesday afternoon and evening, which may further affect traffic conditions. In addition to road work, local residents can look forward to various happenings in August, including performances in Asheville’s vibrant live music scene.
For ongoing updates about Buncombe County traffic and maintenance projects, residents are encouraged to visit the official NCDOT website. Also, note that the Summer Social event is set for August 4, 2025, from 3–6 p.m. at the Radical hotel, located at 95 Roberts St.
Conclusions
With road work and maintenance effects, drivers in Asheville should prepare for potential delays. It is recommended to plan travel routes accordingly and stay informed about the latest traffic conditions through reliable resources.
FAQ
- What is causing traffic congestion in Asheville?
- Traffic congestion in Asheville is primarily caused by ongoing maintenance and repair work on major roads, particularly I-40.
- Are there any lane closures currently in place?
- Yes, the right lane on I-40 near Exit 59 is closed, with additional lane closures expected throughout July on I-40 west and near Brevard Road and I-26 East.
- When can residents expect traffic relief?
- While some maintenance work will conclude soon, lane changes and closures will persist for approximately 18 months as crews continue to widen and rehabilitate I-40.
- Where can I find traffic updates?
- Residents can find traffic updates and information about maintenance projects by visiting the NCDOT website.
- Will the weather affect traffic?
- Yes, scattered thunderstorms are forecasted for the area, which may further impact traffic conditions.
Key Features of the Traffic Situation in Asheville
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Main cause of congestion | Ongoing maintenance and repair work on I-40 and major roads |
| Current Lane Closures | Right lane on I-40 near Exit 59 closed |
| Expected duration of changes | Approximately 18 months for I-40 widening and rehabilitation |
| Other incidents | Recent freight train stoppage and sewer line work causing traffic delays |
| Weather forecast | Scattered thunderstorms through Wednesday evening |
| Traffic Information Resource | NCDOT website for updates |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Local Councilman Attacked in Shocking Incident
Hawaii Faces Tsunami Warning After Earthquake in Russia
Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office Seeks Armed Suspect
Massive Earthquake Triggers Tsunami Alerts Across the Pacific
Asheville Remembers Captain Jeff Bowen
Ghislaine Maxwell Appeals Supreme Court Conviction
Asheville Predicts Warm Winter with Minimal Snowfall
FBI Cracks Major Child Exploitation Ring
Asheville Incident Causes Road Closure and Power Outage
House Oversight Subcommittee Votes to Subpoena DOJ for Epstein Files
Additional Resources
- 828 News Now: Traffic Chokes Major Asheville Arteries
- Greeneville Sun: Slow Comotive Stopped Train Snarls Traffic
- WLOS: Downtown Asheville Sees 20 Percent Drop in Foot Traffic
- 828 News Now: 1 Lane of I-40 in Asheville to be Closed for 18 Months
- Google Search: Asheville Traffic Updates
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, 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 Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
