I-26 sections will be closed overnight June 11 and 12: What to know about detours, timing

A contractor for the N.C. Department of Transportation will close areas of Interstate 26 tonight, Tuesday, June 11, and tomorrow, Wednesday, June 12, to safely conduct construction operations in the area, according to a news release from NCDOT.

For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on social media. Here's what we know about the closures.

Where will I-26 be closed?

On Tuesday night, I-26 West from Long Shoals Road (Exit 37) to Brevard Road (Exit 33) will be closed.

On Wednesday night, I-26 East from Brevard Road to Long Shoals Road will be closed.

When will I-26 be closed? When will I-26 East reopen?

The Tuesday night, June 11, I-26 West closure and Wednesday night, June 12, I-26 East closure will both begin no earlier than 8 p.m., and reopen by 6 a.m. the next morning.

What detours are there during the I-26 closures?

Marked detours will direct drivers along Brevard Road (N.C. 191) and Long Shoals Road (N.C. 146). Some green lights will also be lengthened in order to accommodate additional traffic from the interstate.

Why is I-26 closed?

This week's operations are part of the I-26 Widening project, which aims to reduce traffic congestion congestion and improve travel times upon completion. Tuesday and Wednesday closures will primarily allow for crews to work on rail installation operations.

Following Monday night's construction, drivers in the area June 11 may have noticed a shift of the offramp at Long Shoals Road, placing it about 150 feet closer to the Blue Ridge Parkway and emerging on the right sooner than the previous ramp. This new exit will allow crews to add new concrete paving in coming weeks.

Iris Seaton is the trending news reporter for the Asheville Citizen Times, part of the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at iseaton@citizentimes.com.