ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The N.C. Department of Transportation has awarded a $7 million contract to Watson Construction of Franklin to improve Haywood Road between Patton Avenue and Ridgelawn Avenue in Asheville.
The project includes resurfacing the corridor and adding pedestrian and bicycle enhancements. Planned upgrades include new curb ramps, high-visibility crosswalks, pedestrian bulb-outs and flashing beacon signage at mid-block crossings.
Bike lanes will be added in two sections: from Patton Avenue to Sulphur Springs Road, and from Richmond Avenue to Ridgelawn Avenue. The segment between Sulphur Springs and Richmond will retain its existing center turn lane configuration.
Construction is scheduled to begin this summer with curb ramp improvements and continue into the winter. Final resurfacing and pavement markings, including the new bike lanes, are expected to be completed by summer 2026.
Transportation officials urge motorists to remain alert, drive with caution and follow all posted signs in the construction zone.