ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Drivers who use Pearson Bridge Road will need to find another way around for about six weeks beginning Tuesday.

Pearson Bridge Road will close Sept. 23 for a bridge rehabilitation project, according to the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The closure is expected to last up to 42 days, through Nov. 4.

Crews will repair the bridge deck, replace bridge joints and install a new wearing surface. NCDOT said the work is intended to extend the life of the bridge.

The closure is not related to the ongoing I-26 Connector project, NCDOT spokesperson Stephanie Johnson said.

NCDOT’s proposed detour is 5.5 miles and will take drivers along Riverside Drive, Old Leicester Highway, Gorman Bridge Road, Riverview Church Road and Adams Hill Road before reconnecting with Pearson Bridge Road.

The map shows the closure near the eastern end of Pearson Bridge Road, where it approaches Riverside Drive.

The road is expected to remain closed through Nov. 4.