The N.C. Department of Transportation (NCDOT) marked a major milestone April 23, 2026, with a groundbreaking ceremony in Asheville for the Interstate 26 Connector, a long-anticipated project that will improve safety, reduce congestion and enhance regional connectivity in western North Carolina.

Once complete, the project will connect I-26 south of Asheville with U.S. 19/23/70 north of the city, creating a continuous interstate connection between the mountains of western North Carolina and the Port of Charleston, S.C.

"This project has been a long time coming," said NCDOT Secretary Daniel Johnson. "The I-26 Connector reflects years of planning, collaboration and community input. When complete, it will improve how people and goods move through this corridor while better connecting Asheville's communities and supporting future growth."

The project will address longstanding congestion and safety concerns along the existing corridor, including the Bowen Bridges, where interstate and local traffic currently merge in a constrained configuration.

"This is one of the most complex and important projects in our region," said Tim Anderson, Division 13 engineer. "We've worked closely with local partners and the community to deliver a project that improves mobility while aligning with Asheville's long-term vision."

The I-26 Connector is divided into multiple sections, with construction now under way on both the north and south sections. The entire project is estimated at $1.8 billion and is paid for with state and federal funding. The overall project is expected to be completed in late 2031.

In addition to improving traffic flow, the project includes significant multimodal enhancements designed to better connect neighborhoods and provide safer options for all users.

"This project goes beyond moving vehicles," said Nathan Moneyham, Division 13 construction engineer. "It will improve daily travel for drivers, pedestrians and cyclists by creating a more connected and accessible transportation network throughout the corridor."

Planned improvements include new and upgraded interchanges, bridge construction, multi-use paths and enhanced pedestrian and bicycle connections linking key corridors and neighborhoods.

"We're proud to deliver a project that will serve western North Carolina for generations to come," Johnson said. "It will make a lasting difference for this region."

For more information, visit ncdot.gov/projects/asheville-i-26-connector/Pages/default.aspx.