ASHEVILLE – N.C. Department of Transportation contract crews are building the foundations for new bridges that will transform how drivers travel through Asheville, advancing construction on the I-26 Connector.
Since the project’s April groundbreaking, the contractor, Archer-Wright Joint Venture, has shifted traffic to open multiple work areas, started construction of retaining walls and advanced foundation work for the new bridges that will carry I-26 traffic. Crews have completed roughly 15% of the initial drilled piers. Bridge columns and additional work along the French Broad River causeway will become more visible as construction continues this winter.
“It’s encouraging to see this project take shape after more than 30 years of planning and preparation,” said Nathan Moneyham, NCDOT Division 13 construction engineer. “Seeing bridge foundations come out of the ground and new structures take shape is a significant milestone. We’re excited about the progress and remain focused on delivering this project on schedule to better serve the community and those who travel through the area.”
Crews will continue focusing on bridge construction as the project advances toward its first major milestone: moving I-26 traffic onto the new bridges and off Patton Avenue and the Bowen Bridges.
The I-26 Connector North section remains on schedule for completion in late 2031 and will improve travel through the region by upgrading the interstate corridor and separating through traffic from local streets.
Media Note: Media are welcome to download and use this video of Moneyham reflecting on the project's progress so far and what comes next.