ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Crews are continuing to build a temporary causeway in the French Broad River as work moves forward on the I-26 Connector project in Asheville.

The first phase of the causeway is expected to be in place by the middle of next week, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation.

The temporary work area will give crews access to the river so they can build the foundations for the new I-26/I-240 bridges.

Other work is continuing throughout the project area, including bridge, foundation and roadway construction. NCDOT described most of this week’s activity as routine construction progress.

The overall project remains on schedule, with completion expected in late 2031.

The I-26 Connector will extend I-26 through Asheville, crossing the French Broad River before connecting with U.S. 19/23/70 north of the city.

For more information and updates from NCDOT, visit the department’s I-26 Connector Messenger channel.