BANNER ELK – The N.C. Department of Transportation is replacing a culvert after a utility contractor finished relocating gas lines along an Avery County road.
NCDOT contractor Blythe Development began replacing the Hurricane Helene-damaged culvert on
N.C. 184 near Dobbins Road on Monday. A separate contractor hired by a utility provider finished relocating gas lines in the area Thursday.
Minimal impacts to travel are expected early in the project, but some operations may require a brief lane closure or narrowing weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. as construction continues over the next several months.
The culvert, which carries Hanging Rock Creek under N.C. 184, is one of two Helene-damaged culverts Blythe Development will replace in the High Country. Construction began on the other culvert, near Valley Creek on N.C. 105 in Watauga County, in April.
Transportation officials anticipate construction of both culvets to finish by late fall.
Temporary repairs days after Helene hit allowed both roads to remain open for residents and visitors, but permanent repairs are necessary to improve water flow and resilience to future storms.
Drivers should avoid distractions, remain alert and obey all posted signs.