Old North News

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has announced public meetings to discuss two significant highway recovery projects related to Hurricane Helene. These projects focus on the areas of Gerton and Bat Cave/Chimney Rock.

The meetings aim to inform the public about these projects and gather feedback from local residents and business owners. Comments can also be submitted by mail, email, or through project websites until March 12.

The first meeting will address repairs on U.S. 74A in Gerton, stretching from Bearwallow Mountain Road to the intersection at U.S. 64/U.S. 74/N.C. 9 in Bat Cave. This session is scheduled for Tuesday, February 25, from 5-7 p.m., at Bat Cave Baptist Church located at 5095 Chimney Rock Road.

The second meeting will take place on Wednesday, February 26, from 5-7 p.m., at Lake Lure Classical Academy. This session will cover permanent repairs including replacing the U.S. 64 bridge and reconstructing approximately 2.6 miles of U.S. 64/74A from the U.S. 64 bridge to Terrace Drive. Officials will also present potential options for crossing the Broad River from the highway to Chimney Rock State Park's south side.

Comments and questions regarding both projects can be directed to Project Manager Brian Burch via email at ext-bburch@ncdot.gov.

NCDOT assures that auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act will be available for disabled individuals wishing to participate in these meetings. Those requiring special services should contact Ronald Coleman at rcoleman2@ncdot.gov or call 919-707-7050 as early as possible for arrangements.

For those who do not speak English or have limited proficiency in reading, speaking, or understanding English, interpretive services are available upon request before the meeting by calling 1-800-481-6494.