TDOT to open section of I-26 between Erwin and state line for local motorists Thursday

TRI-CITIES, Tenn. (WJHL) — The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) will open a section of I-26 for local motorists on Thursday, according to a department social media post .

TDOT will open a section of I-26 from the Tennessee/North Carolina line to Exit 40 on Thursday to reconnect communities impacted by Hurricane Helene, including areas in Erwin.

This opening is for local traffic only and those not assisting with recovery efforts are asked to avoid the area.

Law enforcement will be present to enforce restrictions on commercial vehicles, the post said.

In a press conference held at Unicoi County High School on Wednesday, TDOT Region One Director Steve Borden said that the department plans to restore one lane of traffic in each direction on I-26 in 30 to 45 days. This will reestablish I-26 from North Carolina to Tennessee.

For more information about road closures and detours, visit TDOT’s website .

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