ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — As construction continues on the I-26 Connector project, the North Carolina Department of Transportation is answering questions from residents about future noise protections and cleanup efforts around construction areas.

The latest questions focus on whether sound walls will be installed near neighborhoods affected by the project and how NCDOT handles debris left behind after former homeless encampments are cleared from construction zones.

NCDOT said a traffic noise study is underway to determine whether noise mitigation measures, including sound walls, will be recommended.

“Until that study is complete, we will not know where noise walls may be recommended,” NCDOT said. “We expect to have more clarity on potential noise wall locations in the coming months.”

Residents have specifically asked about potential noise impacts near the Haywood Road bridge in West Asheville and nearby residential areas.

NCDOT also addressed concerns about trash, clothing and other debris reported in areas where former homeless encampments were cleared for construction.

The agency said it works with the City of Asheville when relocations of encampments are required. After an area has been vacated, specialized crews remove vegetation needed to continue construction.

“Because these sites often contain a significant amount of debris, crews initially remove larger items as necessary to complete clearing activities,” NCDOT said. “Remaining debris is collected and removed as initial grading operations begin at each location.”

Westgate flyover ramp closure begins Aug. 2

The questions come as the I-26 Connector project moves into another major traffic shift.

The flyover ramp connecting eastbound Patton Avenue to Westgate Parkway will permanently close Sunday, Aug. 2, as crews continue work on the new interchange.

NCDOT said the closure is needed to allow construction of the interchange to continue. Westgate businesses and destinations will remain accessible during the work.

Drivers who typically use the flyover ramp to reach Westgate Parkway will be directed to take I-240 West/I-26 East to the Haywood Road exit. From there, motorists will cross over the interstate to merge onto I-240 East/I-26 West and take Exit 3B to Westgate Parkway.

Portable message boards and signs will be placed before the closure to help drivers navigate the new traffic pattern.

“Some traffic patterns will continue to change as construction progresses,” said Nathan Moneyham, NCDOT Division 13 Construction Engineer. “This closure allows crews to safely move into the next phase of the project while maintaining access to the Westgate area. We appreciate the public’s patience as we continue building these long-term improvements.”

The I-26 Connector project is a roughly 7-mile median-divided freeway project designed to improve safety, reduce congestion and update the interchange system between I-26 and I-240.

The project includes replacing aging bridges, improving local roadway connections and increasing capacity along one of Western North Carolina’s busiest transportation corridors.