NCDOT offers update on I-40
From the Tennessee state line to about mile marker 4 of Interstate 40, the two eastbound lanes are either gone or partially gone. In addition, there are about three other damaged locations in an 11-mile stretch leading to Fines Creek Road (Exit 15).
NCDOT, local, state and federal officials are in the early stages of determining the best process to initiate repairs and begin re-construction of the interstate. Division 14 staff re-visited the site on Tuesday to begin planning emergency shoring plans to prevent additional damage. Those operations should begin within a week.
NCDOT, the Tennessee Department of Transportation and other officials are coordinating and will continue combined efforts to devise the most effective use of the remaining interstate.
The same area suffered shoulder damage from high water in 2004.