ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Crews working on the I-26 Asheville Connector Project will conduct controlled rock blasting near the I-26/I-40 interchange as part of construction on the project’s southern section.

The first blast is scheduled for about 11 a.m. Wednesday, March 11, weather and site conditions permitting. Additional blasts are expected through the week, with engineers estimating up to eight in total. Operations are planned Monday through Friday, typically between 11 a.m. and noon.

To protect workers and drivers, slow-rolling roadblocks will temporarily slow traffic in both directions on I-40 near Exit 46A. Delays are expected to last about 10 to 15 minutes during each blast.

Controlled blasting is used to break up large rock safely and efficiently so crews can continue roadway construction. Residents and businesses nearby may hear loud noises during the blasts, but officials said the operations are carefully monitored to ensure safety.

Contractor Archer-Wright has deployed a specialized blasting crew for the project.