ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The N.C. Department of Transportation has begun acquiring property for the north section of the Interstate 26 Asheville Connector, a key milestone for one of Western North Carolina’s largest transportation projects.

The right-of-way phase includes areas covered by project sections I-2513B and I-2513D, stretching from Haywood Road along Interstate 240 East, across the French Broad River and along Riverside Drive.

Funding allocated for the acquisitions totals an estimated $193 million, including $61 million for early acquisitions on I-2513B, $107 million for remaining I-2513B needs and $25 million for the Riverside Drive portion, according to NCDOT.

The north section will be built using a design-build approach, allowing design and construction to advance simultaneously. The contract was awarded in June 2024. Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with completion anticipated in fall 2031.

Planned improvements include widening I-26 and I-240 from four to six lanes between Haywood Road and Patton Avenue, upgrading interchanges at Haywood Road and Broadway Street, making improvements along Riverside Drive and constructing a new interstate alignment for I-26 and the I-26/I-240 interchange.

Right-of-way needs for the project affect portions of about 170 parcels and are expected to result in approximately 80 relocations, NCDOT officials said. Estimates include about 32 residential relocations and 45 non-residential relocations involving businesses and rental properties. Officials said those numbers could change as design work continues.

Property owners will be contacted directly by a right-of-way agent with American Acquisition Group, which is assisting NCDOT. Agents will meet with owners to review project plans, discuss potential impacts and gather information for appraisals. After an appraisal is completed, owners will receive a written offer based on fair market value.

Relocation assistance and additional information will be provided to property owners and tenants who must move.

“Right-of-way acquisition is one of the most important steps in keeping this project on schedule,” NCDOT Division 13 construction engineer Nathan Moneyham said in a news release. “Beginning this phase brings us one step closer to construction and to improving safety and mobility along this corridor.”

More information about the I-26 Asheville Connector project is available here.