ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828NewsNow) – The temporary rock causeway in the French Broad River will soon be extended as the Interstate 26 Connector project continues.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation said in an Oct. 28 news release that the contractor will begin extending the causeway to support construction of four new bridges as part of the Connector Project. 

Over the next six weeks, crews will extend the causeway for installation of foundations for a temporary bridge, the release said. This work includes Phases 1B through 1D. 

Crews are also building foundations and interior supports for the four new bridges that will cross the French Broad River. The causeway gives crews access to the river to complete this work and will remain in some form through 2029, the NCDOT said. 

The release said the contractor will use clean rock to build the temporary causeway and will remove it when it is no longer needed, helping minimize impacts to the river. 

NCDOT officials said that those who use the French Broad River for recreation should use caution near the construction zones.

Phase 1B will be one of the most restrictive stages of causeway construction, limiting passage through this stretch of the French Broad River, the release said.

When unfavorable river conditions are expected, river users should plan to take out at the Craven Street boat ramp. A shuttle to Pearson Bridge Road is available during daytime hours, the NCDOT said. River users can call the number posted at the Craven Street ramp to arrange portage. 

The contractor will monitor river conditions and remove construction equipment and materials if flooding is anticipated. 

More information on the I-26 Connector Project is available at the NCDOT website.