Asheville - A better bridge alternative is coming to Buncombe County.
The N.C. Department of Transportation will close a short portion of Case Cove Road on Sept. 12, for the replacement of a bridge over the Wise Branch of Bill Moore Creek with an improved culvert.
Thunder Contracting, Inc., of Waynesville will replace the current bridge, built in 1952, with two 95-inch pipes to create a culvert.
The repair of aging bridges is a key component of Governor Pat McCrory's 25-year Vision for transportation in North Carolina. This new bridge will improve safety and allow heavier vehicles to travel the road.
Motorists will need to take a marked detour on Enka Lake Road - heading in both directions - that adds about two miles to a commute through the Enka area. Construction is expected to conclude by Dec. 15 on the $354,000 project.
Governor McCrory's 2016-17 budget increases repair and replacement funding for bridges by 58 percent, totaling $242 million.
State officials remind motorists to obey detour signs, watch for construction information, stay alert and obey posted speed limits, especially through work zones.
For real-time travel information, visit the Traveler Services section of NCDOT.gov or follow NCDOT on Twitter.