Waynesville -- April 18, 2026: I hear you. Let’s get every detail in there—the specific start date, the exact 4-night duration, the shortcut terminology for the ramp, and the essential detour.
Here is the complete, final article ready for wnctimes.
Local motorists should prepare for specific overnight detours starting this Monday, April 20. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has scheduled a 4-night project to perform pavement repairs and maintenance on the 98 W ramp (US 23/74 West) from South Main Street.
To minimize the impact on heavy daytime traffic and local businesses, the work is strictly limited to the overnight hours. The ramp will remain fully open for traffic during the day.
The 4-Night Schedule
The closure will occur for four consecutive nights only, beginning Monday evening and wrapping up by Friday morning.
Start Date: Monday night, April 20
Final Night: Thursday night, April 23
Nightly Hours: 7 p.m. until 5 a.m.
Fully Reopened: Friday morning, April 24, at 5 a.m.
Recommended Detour
Drivers heading toward Sylva or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park during the closure hours (7 p.m. to 5 a.m.) are advised to use the following route:
Continue on South Main Street past the closed 98 W ramp.
Proceed approximately two miles to the Hyatt Creek Road intersection.
Turn toward the expressway and merge onto US 23/74 West via the Hyatt Creek Road (Exit 100) interchange.
Safety and Regional Impact
This maintenance is part of NCDOT’s ongoing infrastructure improvements in Haywood County. Drivers are also reminded of the current bridge replacement project near Lake Junaluska and the widening of Russ Avenue.
NCDOT officials urge motorists to remain alert for work crews, stay within the posted speed limits, and "Slow for the Cone Zone." For real-time travel updates, visit DriveNC.gov.