Construction on the Interstate 26/U.S. 74 interchange in Polk County continues, with the deadline in August drawing closer each day.

“The devastating storms that hit Polk County put us in a spot where we have to make up for lost time,” said Division 14 Resident Engineer Shep Cordray. “We are going to accelerate a few things in the coming weeks that should help us meet our deadline on this project.”

Plans include necessary lane shifts and closures that will require temporary detours at various times in June. Drivers should follow posted signs and schedule extra time into travel plans.

• Monday, June 18: The I-26 Eastbound ramp to Tryon/Columbus will be closed for one week. The ramp from I-26 East to U.S. 74 East will remain open and serve as part of the detour. Drivers should take U.S. 74 East exit 163, turn left over the highway and take U.S. 74 West to West Mills Street.

• Tuesday, June 19: Traffic on a 1-mile stretch of I-26 West will be shifted to the inside lane for a week. No significant delays are expected.

For real-time travel information, people may visit DriveNC.gov or follow NCDOT on Twitter.

-Submitted by

David Uchiyama