ASHEVILLE, N.C. — After receiving federal approval, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) will move forward with its newest plans for the Interstate 26 Connector project.
WLOS
It affects the northern section of the project, from the Haywood Road/I-240 interchange to the north end.
NCDOT APPROVED TO MOVE FORWARD WITH NEWEST PLANS FOR I-26 CONNECTOR DESPITE CONCERNS
“We can begin construction, which is what you’ll see in some small areas beginning as early as next week,” said NCDOT Division 13 Construction Engineer Nathan Moneyham.
MARCH 26, 2026 – Signs over Capt. Jeff Bowen Bridge in Asheville, North Carolina, directing traffic to future I-26. (Photo: WLOS Staff)
As construction begins, drivers can expect some minor lane shifts and shoulder closures for the next three to four weeks. Then work will pick up over the next couple of months, going into summer.
NCDOT said it has been acquiring land for months.
“The design phase, the right-of-way phase, and construction phase really overlap, so while we’re constructing, we’ll be continuing to acquire the necessary property for the whole project,” said Moneyham.
CONTROLLED BLASTS CONTINUE FOR I-26 CONNECTOR PROJECT, COMPLETION SET FOR 2031
Because of this project, NCDOT estimates there’s going to be about 80 relocations.
We spoke with a business owner who’s preparing to move.
Veronica Carlson, the owner of Kava X Coffee, said she received an email telling her she has until April 24 to relocate as plans move forward on the northern section of the I-26 Connector. (Photo: WLOS Staff)
“Two months ago, I received an email notice that said that, basically, you have until April 24,” said Veronica Carlson, the Owner of Kava X Coffee.
She said that not only will she have to start over at a new location, but she’s worried she won’t see the regular friendly faces she’s gotten close to.
“It really hurts me to know that maybe the next location won’t be accessible to those connections that I’ve made and all of my staff and the community members here, too,” said Carlson.
Some of those friendly faces don’t want to see the business move either.
Rendering of the northern section of the I-26 Connector project. (Photo: NCDOT)
“It’s a wonderful community, and I really hope that they’re going to be OK through this transition, that they’re going to be able to find a new space and continue this business they do a lot for the community,” one customer said.
DOT officials say owners and tenants who must relocate received relocation assistance information and time to consider their options.
“The DOT, whatever amount I qualify for, will supplement the rent up to that amount (for) up to two years,” said Carlson.
