ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Construction on the I-26 Connector continues across Asheville, with crews preparing for a major next step: building temporary causeways in the French Broad River.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation said crews are preparing for construction of the temporary causeway, with that work expected to begin soon.

The causeway will support construction activities in and around the river as the massive I-26 Connector project moves forward.

Other work underway includes clearing and grubbing, utility relocation, bridge foundation and substructure work, grading and drainage pipe installation, according to NCDOT.

Readers ask: When will the I-26 Connector be finished?

One of the questions readers have been asking is when the long-awaited project will be completed.

NCDOT said the anticipated completion date remains late 2031.

The agency said there have been no changes to the anticipated completion schedule since the project was awarded.

The I-26 Connector is one of the largest transportation projects in Western North Carolina and is designed to improve travel between Interstate 26, Interstate 240 and surrounding communities in Asheville.

Readers ask: Will NCDOT provide more public updates?

Another question from readers is whether NCDOT officials will hold regular public presentations or briefings about the project.

NCDOT said its officials regularly meet and coordinate with the city of Asheville, Buncombe County and other project stakeholders as construction progresses.

The agency said it is willing to participate in public meetings or provide project updates when invited by local officials or community groups.

There are no regularly scheduled public meetings or briefings planned at this time.

NCDOT said residents can follow project updates and construction information through its I-26 Connector website and social media channels.

Madison County presentation planned

People looking for an opportunity to hear directly from NCDOT about the project may have an opportunity later this month.

According to Madison County Public Libraries, the Rotary Club of Madison County is planning a presentation at 5:30 p.m. Aug. 27 at the Marshall Library.

The presentation will feature NCDOT Engineer Tim Anderson and focus on the I-26 project and potential impacts on local traffic.

New tool tracks transportation projects

NCDOT also recently launched Projects Near Me, an interactive online map that allows users to search for transportation projects by address or project type.

The tool can be used to find information about transportation projects in a particular area, including planned and ongoing work.

NCDOT cautions that Projects Near Me does not provide information about current traffic impacts. Motorists looking for real-time traffic information should use DriveNC.gov.

NCDOT is encouraging residents with questions or comments about the I-26 Connector to contact the project team at i26connector@ncdot.gov.

Have an I-26 Connector question?

We’re continuing to ask questions on behalf of our readers as construction moves forward.

If you have a question about the I-26 Connector that you’d like us to ask NCDOT, email us at news@828newsNOW.com. Your question could be included in a future weekly project update.