NCDOT outlines roundabout-centered plan, timeline for I-40/Blue Ridge Road interchange

Brandon Merrithew of the North Carolina Department of Transportation's Division 13 presented the town council with an update on the I4409 project, describing the design as a set of roundabouts at the I-40/Blue Ridge Road interchange and a split approach that separates a bridge replacement (I4409A) from the rest of the interchange (I4409B). "I was asked to give a brief Update on the I4409N new interchange on I40 at Blue Ridge Road," Merrithew said, summarizing public meetings, alternatives considered, and the decision to use roundabouts to improve traffic calming and clarify right-of-way movements.

Merrithew told council members the plan is to let a contract in December for the bridge replacement over the Swannanoa and to pursue right-of-way acquisition and utility relocations that could affect that schedule. "We currently will put that out to contract in December," he said, adding that a traditional contract could allow an 18-month window but that use of detours and phased work could shorten closure time. Councilors pressed about property impacts and whether roundabouts would require takings; Merrithew said the final design is reducing impacts but some easements or rights-of-way will be necessary.

The presentation included maps of preliminary roundabout locations, a proposed roundabout serving Veterans Park and additional changes up to NC 9, and a reminder that right-of-way funding for the overall I4409 had been authorized and right-of-way acquisition is underway. Officials and residents asked NCDOT to follow up on specific driveway and bridge questions affecting Montreat College and South Blue Ridge Road; Merrithew agreed to provide contact information for follow-up and to coordinate timing as ROW and utility work progress. The council did not take an immediate vote on the project but requested follow-up on local impacts and timing.