North Carolina Construction News staff writer
The N.C. Department of Transportation recently started a significant reconstruction of Green River Cove Road, a $23.2 million project.
“The damage on Green River Cove Road was substantial, and we acknowledge the impacts that this has had on the community,” Division 14 Engineer Wesley Grindstaff said. “We have worked very hard to get these repairs designed and under contract to fully restore use of the roadway for local residents and visitors.”
Construction will begin on the riverside stretch between Fishtop Access and Silver Creek Road before work progresses next year to the switchbacks. Permanent repairs will include reconstructing the roadbed in sections, grading certain slopes, adding large supportive rock, paving, lane markings and other final improvements. Officials from the contractor, Site Development of Cliffside, N.C., anticipate completing the riverside stretch before next spring. Crews may utilize temporary lane closures with flaggers for the safety of drivers and construction workers.
Significant reconstruction will then begin on the stretch from Holbert Cove Road to Fishtop Access which includes more than 15 hair-pin curves and an elevation change of nearly 1,000 feet. The switchback repairs will include multiple retaining walls on both sides of the road to protect embankments and reduce the possibility of future slides. All repairs are expected to be completed in early 2029.
For more information visit NCDOT on social media.
How about some money to fix Howard Gap Road between Saluda and Columbus in Polk county? The road washed away from a storm over 6 years ago and the road was damaged more by Helene. The road has been closed for over 6 years. The NCDOT says “there is no money to fix our road”. Maybe some news organizations can help us get attention about our road. I have spoken with the NCDOT, Congress members, and the Lt. Governor’s office multiple times over the past 6 years and NO ONE will help us.