ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — As the Interstate 26 Connector project continues across Asheville, roadways have steadily closed to make way for construction. Hill Street, located just outside downtown, will close beginning Sunday, Sept. 13, 2026.

The area around Hill Street has already seen recent closures. Nearby ramps to and from I-26 and Interstate 240 were closed earlier this year and construction is happening now around Riverside Drive.

This closure will allow crews to utilize the full width of the road to replace the Atkinson Street bridge over I-26 and build a roundabout connecting Hill Street, Atkinson Street, Courtland Avenue and Houston Street.

“Due to limited space in the area and realignment of I-26, a complete closure is necessary to safely complete the work and establish a new connection to Riverside Drive,” the North Carolina Department of Transportation said.

While Hill Street is closed, motorists from the nearby Hillcrest and Montford neighborhoods should access Riverside Drive from Clingman Avenue or Broadway Street instead. Closure and detour signs will be posted in the area.

At minimum, the NCDOT anticipates the closure to last through the end of 2027.