ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Work on the southern section of the Interstate 26 Connector Project has begun. That section runs from the Smokey Park Highway interchange on I-40 to the I-26 interchange.

Concrete safety barriers have been positioned along the shoulder of portions of I-40 and I-26 so crews can begin clearing operations in that area, the North Carolina Department of Transportation said in a news release.

The safety barriers are along I-40 West and East at mile markers 44 through 46 and along I-26 East at Exit 31A. There are no lane closures or speed reductions in the area, but drivers should be aware of the reduced pull-off space along the shoulders, the NCDOT said.

Clearing and grubbing operations are expected to take about two months, the NCDOT said. The work is set for daytime hours, but it will be happening behind the portable safety barriers.

Archer-Wright Joint Venture earned the contract for this section last year. Once complete, this project will help to alleviate congestion in the area, increase the service life of the roadway and provide better access to western Buncombe County.

Construction for the entire southern section of the connector project will continue until 2029.