According to an NCDOT news release, a single lane of U.S. 74 West will be closed in a short stretch south of Interstate 40 from Sunday, October 26, through Thursday, October 30.
The closure will allow crews from NHM Constructors of Asheville to prepare the roadway for a significant traffic pattern change. The NCDOT says that westbound traffic will be shifted onto the newly constructed temporary bridge on Thursday, October 30. This shift is expected to restore the standard two lanes for drivers by Friday, October 31.
Plan Ahead for Delays
Due to the anticipated periods of heavy traffic during the closures, drivers are strongly advised to plan ahead and consider alternative routes. Westbound drivers can avoid the work zone by utilizing N.C. 209 South or taking Exit 24.
Following the successful shift of westbound traffic, the construction focus will move to the eastbound lanes. The NCDOT states that crews will begin moving eastbound traffic onto the westbound lanes to allow for the removal of the old bridge structure.
Traffic Advisory Summary: U.S. 74 West in Clyde
One Lane Closure: U.S. 74 West (South of I-40) will have one lane closed from Sunday, October 26, through Thursday, October 30. Heavy traffic is anticipated, so drivers should seek alternate routes like NC 209 S or Exit 24.
Traffic Shift: Westbound traffic on U.S. 74 will be shifted onto the temporary bridge on Thursday, October 30.
Lanes Restored: Two standard lanes for westbound drivers will be restored on Friday, October 31.
Part of a Larger Bridge Replacement Project
This work is part of a larger $17.7 million project to replace the 64-year-old bridge over the Southern Railroad. The construction began in the fall of 2024 and aims to provide a new bridge that meets modern standards and includes a taller guardrail.The overall bridge replacement project is expected to be completed by spring 2028.