WAYNESVILLE, N.C. — Governor Josh Stein announced on Monday that a segment of Interstate 40 in western North Carolina, which suffered severe damage during the historic flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, is expected to reopen to traffic by March 1. Stein made the announcement while visiting the affected area, alongside U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
In late September, the key route connecting North Carolina with eastern Tennessee was disrupted when more than a mile of the eastbound lanes of I-40 was washed away due to flooding in the Pigeon River gorge. Although there were initial plans to restore a 20-mile stretch of the interstate leading to the Tennessee border in early January, the effort was delayed when additional asphalt was compromised in mid-December. The state Department of Transportation attributed the December landslide to continuous wet conditions and freeze-thaw cycles that destabilized the area.
During his visit, Governor Stein announced an updated timeline for the reopening of one lane in each direction, albeit at a reduced speed. He expressed gratitude towards road crews and the state’s Department of Transportation for their hard work, highlighting that the reopening of two lanes is a significant step in reconnecting North Carolina and Tennessee while aiding the tourism sector to help revive the economy.
To reinforce the remaining road structure, contractors have employed extensive measures, including driving durable steel rods into the foundational bedrock, filling them with grout, and applying concrete to the cliff face for added stability.
Hurricane Helene had a broad impact on the region, damaging over 5,000 miles of state-maintained roads and affecting approximately 7,000 private roads, bridges, and culverts. State officials expect to receive around $3.2 billion from the Federal Highway Administration to support emergency repair initiatives, as recently indicated in a presentation to members of the General Assembly by storm recovery officials.
Governor Stein’s visit included discussions with Secretary Duffy, who toured the damaged stretch of roadway alongside U.S. Senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd, along with Representatives Chuck Edwards and Tim Moore, all of whom represent North Carolina. In his announcement, Stein acknowledged Duffy’s dedication to assisting with the ongoing recovery efforts, emphasizing the substantial work still required to ensure the public’s safe return to the roads.
It is important to note that Stein clarified the reopening of Interstate 40 will occur by March 1, and not on that date specifically.
