CHIMNEY ROCK, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — Transportation leaders are asking for input on rebuilding storm-damaged roads and bridges in western North Carolina.
One key focus is the reconstruction of U.S. 74A through Chimney Rock.
Five months after Helene hit western North Carolina, roads in Chimney Rock are blocked off and closed to most traffic. NCDOT is working to fast-track plans to make sure construction can likely start this summer.
“We want the town to open,” said Kim Singer, who lives in Chimney Rock. “We want the town to get back to where it was and make it better and more beautiful.”
The people who live in western North Carolina have a vested interest in what happens to their communities. It’s why hundreds of them showed up to a meeting Wednesday night to learn about the potential plans to replace several bridges.
Leaders are looking at two options for the U.S. 64 replacement bridge in Bat Cave and six options for the replacement of the Southside Drive and Chimney Rock Park Road bridges. Some of them involve keeping the original alignment, while others would involve building the bridge in a new location.
“We really want to go with option one with the two bridges and that will leave our quiet street, and the main bridge will funnel to the park,” said Dan Fowler, who lives in Chimney Rock.
Many people have strong opinions about what they want to see happen. But everyone wants to see tourism come back.
“The state park needs to be open to bring in commerce and the faster we get the roads as far as Chimney Rock open, so the businesses can come back,” said Mike Wood.
You have until March 12 to give feedback. You can find out more about the projects and submit your input on the NCDOT website.
