ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — If you use Hill Street, there’s a big change coming Sunday night that could affect your commute for a long time.
Hill Street will close overnight Sunday, Sept. 13, and is expected to stay closed through at least the end of 2027 as part of the Interstate 26 Connector project.
The closure is needed while crews replace the Atkinson Street bridge over I-26 and build a roundabout connecting Hill Street, Atkinson Street, Courtland Avenue and Houston Street.
NCDOT says a full closure is necessary because of the limited space in the area and the realignment of I-26.
If Hill Street is part of your usual route, it’s a good time to start looking at an alternate. NCDOT also is advising drivers to allow extra time, particularly during the morning and afternoon commutes.
What else is happening?
There isn’t a lot of new traffic-impacting activity to report this week, but work continues at several locations along the I-26 Connector.
Crews are working on clearing and grubbing, utilities, bridge foundations and substructures, grading and drainage.
Work also continues on the temporary causeway in the French Broad River and around the Craven Street Bridge.
At the Westgate interchange, crews are continuing construction following the permanent closure of the eastbound flyover.
The I-26 Connector is expected to be completed in late 2031.