SALUDA – Permanent repairs are starting on a catastrophically damaged road in Polk County.
A contractor for the N.C. Department of Transportation recently started a $23.2 million contract for significant reconstruction of Green River Cove Road.
“The damage on Green River Cove Road was substantial, and we acknowledge the impacts that this has had on the community," Division 14 Engineer Wesley Grindstaff said. “We have worked very hard to get these repairs designed and under contract to fully restore use of the roadway for local residents and visitors."
Construction will begin on the riverside stretch between Fishtop Access and Silver Creek Road before work progresses next year to the switchbacks. Residents and visitors — especially those looking to enjoy a day on the water — have been able to access the area via Silver Creek Road from Mill Spring thanks to temporary repairs completed by NCDOT crews.
The permanent repairs will include reconstructing the roadbed in sections, grading certain slopes, adding large supportive rock, paving, lane markings and other final improvements. Officials from the contractor, Site Development of Cliffside, N.C., anticipate completing the riverside stretch before next spring. Crews may utilize temporary lane closures with flaggers for the safety of drivers and construction workers.
Then, significant reconstruction will begin on the stretch from Holbert Cove Road to Fishtop Access which includes more than 15 hair-pin curves and an elevation change of nearly 1,000 feet. The switchback repairs will include multiple retaining walls on both sides of the road to protect embankments and reduce the possibility of future slides. All repairs are expected to be completed in early 2029.
Transportation officials remind drivers to remain alert, obey all posted signs traffic signs and follow instructions of flaggers for the safety of motorists and workers.
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