ASHEVILLE — Controlled rock blasting began Wednesday morning along the I-26 Asheville Connector corridor, as the N.C. Department of Transportation launched the first in a series of demolition sequences designed to clear the way for one of the region's most significant infrastructure upgrades in decades.
Up to eight blasts are planned Monday through Friday between 11 a.m. and noon, weather permitting, near the I-26/I-40 East interchange. The blasting supports rock removal in the project's southern section and marks a visible new phase of construction activity for motorists traveling through the area.
To ensure public safety during each blast, crews will implement slow-rolling roadblocks on I-40 near Exit 46A in both directions. Drivers should expect delays of 10 to 15 minutes during that window each weekday.
"We want the public to be aware that they may hear and feel these blasts, and that brief traffic slowdowns are part of our standard safety protocol," an NCDOT spokesperson said.
The I-26 Asheville Connector is a roughly 7-mile project that includes upgrades to I-240 and the complex interchange where I-26, I-40, and I-240 converge in western Asheville. The project also calls for construction of a new freeway segment connecting to U.S. 19/23/70 — a long-anticipated improvement intended to relieve congestion and improve freight movement through the mountain corridor.
The project, years in the making, has been a focal point for regional transportation planning. Officials have urged commuters to plan alternate routes or add extra travel time during the 11 a.m. to noon blasting window on weekdays.
Motorists are encouraged to monitor NCDOT's travel information resources and local traffic alerts for daily updates on blasting activity and roadblock schedules. The blasting schedule is subject to change based on weather and site conditions.