WAYNESVILLE, N.C. — A significant stretch of Interstate 40 in the western North Carolina mountains is set to reopen this weekend, marking a crucial restoration after Hurricane Helene caused extensive flooding and road damage. This reopening, scheduled for Saturday, aims to restore an essential travel route between western North Carolina and eastern Tennessee.
The North Carolina Department of Transportation announced that the 20-mile (32-kilometer) section on the state line will be operational again. In late September, severe flooding in the Pigeon River gorge resulted in the loss of over 1 mile (1.6 kilometers) of eastbound lanes on I-40.
Initially, traffic will be limited to one lane in each direction along this typically four-lane roadway, with a reduced speed limit of 35 mph (56 kph). A concrete curb will separate the traffic, and there will be designated breaks for emergency vehicle access.
Governor Josh Stein previously indicated that I-40 would reopen by March 1, providing a much-needed boost to the flow of people and goods across state lines. Regional DOT engineer Wanda Payne emphasized the importance of improved connectivity, stating, “This opening improves the flow of people, goods, and services between our two states and beyond Haywood County.” Travelers are advised to anticipate delays during peak travel times, particularly on holiday weekends, and to consider alternate routes.
While the Tennessee side of I-40 reopened months ago, the North Carolina DOT has indicated that one-lane conditions will extend into Tennessee until the connection is fully restored.
Initial hopes for reopening I-40 by early January faced setbacks due to further road collapses in mid-December. To stabilize the remaining roadway, contractors have been employing a method that includes driving long steel rods into the bedrock and reinforcing the road with concrete.
Looking ahead, North Carolina officials have secured a contract for the permanent reconstruction of this vital road section. Transportation Secretary Joey Hopkins revealed that a full return to four lanes might not occur until late 2026, depending on the availability of stone from nearby Pisgah National Forest. If sourcing materials from Tennessee becomes necessary, the timeline could extend by an additional two to three years.
