October 2, 2025

New Bridge Over I-26 Marks Progress in Asheville Infrastructure

Asheville, North Carolina, October 2, 2025

News Summary

Traffic is now flowing across a newly constructed bridge on the Blue Ridge Parkway over Interstate 26 in Asheville, North Carolina. This completion is a significant step in the I-26 widening project aimed at enhancing traffic flow and safety in Buncombe County. With a length of 605 feet and a height of 90 feet, the bridge is designed with pre-cast concrete and will feature aesthetic elements in line with traditional parkway architecture. The old bridge will be dismantled in the coming weeks, necessitating some overnight closures of I-26.

Asheville, North Carolina – Traffic is now flowing across a newly constructed Blue Ridge Parkway bridge over Interstate 26, marking a crucial advancement in the ongoing I-26 widening project through Buncombe County. The completion of this new bridge is a significant milestone that allows the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) to initiate the removal of the old bridge.

The new bridge spans 605 feet in length and stands approximately 90 feet above I-26, located just north of Asheville Regional Airport. Built using pre-cast concrete sections, the structure consists of 14 pieces for the piers. Internal tendons connect these concrete segments, providing stability, while the design incorporates a cavity that enables easier maintenance access.

In line with traditional parkway architecture, the new bridge will feature stone masonry, wooden guardrails, and other aesthetic elements upon completion. Work will continue on the bridge following the fall season, which includes masonry work, the removal of parts of the old roadway, grading, and tree planting.

Crews from Fluor-United and subcontractors are scheduled to dismantle the old bridge meticulously over the next six weeks. This demolition process may necessitate overnight closures of I-26 to ensure safety and efficiency.

The construction endeavor comes with a budget of approximately $14.5 million and is part of a more extensive initiative aimed at widening I-26 from four to eight lanes. This road expansion is deemed essential as the previous bridge’s supports obstruct the necessary expansion of I-26 in the designated area between exits 33 and 37.

Engineers have set a target to open both lanes of the new bridge by the end of the following week. After its operational launch, plans will shift focus towards cutting the old bridge into sections for removal. The overall demolition process is expected to take between four to six weeks, accompanied by continued night closures of I-26 during this period.

In the broader context of local infrastructure, Asheville Mayor Esther Manheimer and Buncombe County Commission Chair Amanda Edwards have called for the NCDOT to reassess its plans for constructing an eight-lane flyover bridge over Patton Avenue. This request comes as the revival of the flyover bridge concept faces criticism concerning a perceived lack of community transparency and consultation in the planning stages.

Bridge Key Features

Location: North of Asheville Regional Airport
Length: 605 feet
Height: Approximately 90 feet above I-26
Construction Cost: Approximately $14.5 million
Construction Material: Pre-cast concrete sections
Components: 14 pieces for piers, internal tendons, and maintenance cavity
Architectural Features: Stone masonry and wooden guardrails
Demolition Process Timeline: 4 to 6 weeks following the new bridge’s opening

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of the new Blue Ridge Parkway bridge?

The new bridge allows for traffic to flow over Interstate 26 and marks a milestone in the ongoing I-26 widening project through Buncombe County.

How much did it cost to build the new bridge?

The construction of the bridge costs approximately $14.5 million.

When can we expect traffic to flow over the new bridge?

Engineers aim to open both lanes of the new bridge by the end of the following week.

What will happen to the old bridge?

Once the new bridge is operational, crews will begin demolishing the old bridge by cutting it into sections, and this process is expected to take four to six weeks.