CLYDE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A lane closure is coming to U.S. 74 West in Clyde next week as crews prepare to shift traffic onto a temporary bridge, part of an ongoing bridge replacement project.
Contractor NHM Constructors of Asheville will close one westbound lane near Interstate 40 beginning Sunday night, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The lane closure is expected to last five days.
By Thursday night, traffic will be shifted onto the temporary bridge, restoring two lanes for drivers by Friday morning.
NCDOT officials warn that drivers should expect heavy congestion, especially during evening commutes. Motorists can use N.C. 209 South (Exit 24) as an alternate route to avoid the work zone.
The work is part of a $17.7 million project to replace a 64-year-old bridge over the Southern Railroad, which has reached the end of its service life. Once the westbound shift is complete, crews will begin moving eastbound traffic onto the westbound lanes so demolition of the old bridge can begin.
The new bridge will meet modern design standards, including a taller guardrail. Construction began in fall 2024 and is scheduled for completion in spring 2028.