News Summary
Asheville, NC, will experience a temporary closure of I-40 West for bridge rehabilitation over the French Broad River from April 25 to April 28. Managed by DBA Harrison Construction Company, the project aims to enhance bridge safety and infrastructure. Motorists are advised to prepare for delays and use I-240 West as a detour. The rehabilitation work includes hydro-demolition and new concrete overlays. This effort is a part of a broader $27.9 million initiative to improve I-40’s structure and resolve existing issues, with expected completion by spring 2026.
Asheville, North Carolina – I-40 West will be temporarily closed for bridge rehabilitation work over the French Broad River from 8 p.m. on Friday, April 25, until 6 a.m. on Monday, April 28. The construction, managed by DBA Harrison Construction Company based in Asheville, aims to enhance the integrity and safety of the bridge infrastructure.
The closure will impact the section of I-40 West between Hendersonville Road (Exit 50) and I-26. Motorists should prepare for delays and seek alternative routes during this time. The primary detour for drivers is I-240 West, which can be accessed starting at Exit 53B. Digital signs along the route will instruct drivers on the detour, ensuring they are informed and directed away from the closure.
Additionally, the onramp from Brevard Road to I-40 West will also be closed during this period. Motorists planning to use this onramp should be aware and plan ahead to avoid congestion and extended travel times.
The scope of work during this closure includes hydro-demolition of the existing bridge deck, which involves removing the surface layer of the bridge to prepare it for an upgrade. Following this, a latex modified concrete overlay will be applied to improve durability. New asphalt will be laid on the bridge approaches to ensure a smooth transition for vehicles once the road reopens.
This project is part of a larger $27.9 million initiative aimed at comprehensive roadway resurfacing and bridge overlays along I-40. It is designed to not only rehabilitate the bridge over the French Broad River but also to address spalling concrete issues on the bridge’s substructure components, including piers. In addition to the bridge over the French Broad River, improvements are also planned for four other I-40 bridges crossing Hominy Creek.
The contract for the rehabilitation project is expected to be completed by spring 2026. Motorists are encouraged to remain informed about the status of the construction and follow posted signs for the latest updates. The safety and efficiency of the roadway are the primary goals of this substantial infrastructure improvement effort.
The construction work is essential for maintaining and upgrading the safety of one of the major transportation routes in Western North Carolina. Local residents and travelers alike are advised to plan their journeys accordingly during the outlined closure period to minimize inconvenience and ensure their travel plans are not disrupted.
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Additional Resources
- WLOS: I-40 West Closure for Bridge Repairs
- Wikipedia: Interstate 40
- Knox News: I-40 Reopening at the Gorge
- Google Search: I-40 Closure News
- Fox Carolina: I-40 East Closure for Rehabilitation
- Google Scholar: I-40 Bridge Rehabilitation
- Carolina Journal: I-40 Westbound Repairs Contract
- Google News: I-40 Reopening
