Reconstruction of U.S. 64 between Hendersonville and the Bat Cave-Chimney Rock area has reached “functional completion” approximately two months ahead of schedule, restoring a key transportation corridor, Secretary Johnson said.
RUTHERFORDTON, N.C. — From new transportation funding to the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene, North Carolina transportation officials used their July Board of Transportation meeting to outline the department’s priorities for the coming fiscal year. Board members received updates on the newly enacted state budget, disaster recovery spending, DMV improvements, and major highway reconstruction projects across the state.
Here are the top 10 takeaways from the meeting:
State budget delivers major transportation funding
The newly signed state budget provides approximately $216 million for the Highway Fund and $122 million for the Highway Trust Fund to support transportation projects, highway maintenance, and infrastructure improvements statewide.
Nearly $1.7 billion spent on Hurricane Helene recovery
NCDOT reported spending about $1.696 billion on Hurricane Helene recovery through July 6, representing roughly 29% of its nearly $6 billion recovery forecast.
Federal reimbursements approach $800 million
The department has received nearly $800 million in reimbursements from FEMA and the Federal Highway Administration but continues carrying an estimated $900 million cash float while awaiting additional federal payments.
DMV receives new funding and 65 positions
The budget includes $16.4 million for the Division of Motor Vehicles and funding for 65 new full-time employees, supporting extended office hours and two additional driver’s license offices.
Board gains authority over new transportation fees
State lawmakers authorized the Board of Transportation to establish certain fees, including driveway permits, traffic impact analyses, subdivision reviews, and ferry tolls. Officials said implementation details are still being developed.
Major Helene rebuilding projects continue
Officials highlighted continued progress on Interstate 40, U.S. 64 in Henderson County, bridge replacements in Yancey County, and reconstruction of Green River Cove Road in Polk County as recovery work advances across western North Carolina.
U.S. 64 project finishes ahead of schedule
Reconstruction of U.S. 64 between Hendersonville and the Bat Cave and Chimney Rock area has reached “functional completion” approximately two months ahead of schedule, restoring a key transportation corridor.
Interstate 40 reconstruction reaches another milestone
More than 68,000 cubic yards of roller-compacted concrete have been placed as crews continue rebuilding damaged sections of Interstate 40 near the Tennessee state line. Construction activity is expected to increase through the summer.
DMV digital improvements continue
NCDOT reported that customers have uploaded approximately 32,000 documents through its new in-office digital upload system, allowing many visitors to submit required paperwork electronically instead of relying on printed copies.
Updated spending plan expected this fall
NCDOT plans to present an updated financial spending plan in September, with board approval expected in October. The revised plan will incorporate the new state budget and updated Hurricane Helene recovery projections.
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