NCDOT Ride-Along Reveals Chimney Rock and Bat Cave $25M Temporary Repairs

CHIMNEY ROCK, N.C. — WCAB News was part of a group of reporters who joined the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) on Aug. 26 for a rare tour of the storm-damaged corridor between Chimney Rock Village and Bat Cave. The ride-along showcased both the devastation left behind by Hurricane Helene in September 2024 and the $25 million temporary road that has since reconnected isolated communities.

Division 13 construction engineer Nathan Moneyham described the progress from the site of the old highway alignment, now serving as a staging ground for permanent reconstruction. Behind him stretched the two-lane temporary paved road completed this spring.

“This temporary road was established a lot faster than anybody expected,” Moneyham said. “It allowed residents to get to the grocery store, doctor appointments, and begin rebuilding their homes.”

The permanent project, expected to cost $250 million, is scheduled to begin this fall with bridge construction. The rebuilt highway will feature straighter curves, reinforced slopes, and stronger foundations designed to better withstand future storms. Completion is anticipated in 2027.

What “Local Traffic Only” Means

Confusion over “local traffic only” signs has lingered for months. Moneyham clarified that the road is open to anyone who lives, works, rents property, or has legitimate business in the area — from making deliveries to visiting a friend.

“What we’re asking is that folks have a reason to be here,” he explained. “This is still an active construction zone.”

Sheriff’s Office Issues Strong Reminder

On Aug. 29, the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office issued a sharply worded statement making clear that road closures are not optional:

“When we say Chimney Rock roads are STILL closed… guess what? We actually mean it. Shocking, I know. Yet somehow, folks are out here pretending the giant ROAD CLOSED signs are just cute decorations.”

Although Chimney Rock is in Rutherford County, the town council previously approved an agreement allowing Henderson County deputies to enforce closures there. Law enforcement presence includes Henderson County deputies, Lake Lure police, Chimney Rock State Park rangers, FEMA-funded Apex Security contractors, and the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies warned that excuses like “just following traffic” or “didn’t see the signs” will not be accepted. Violators are being cited and fined, with some cases sent directly to court.

Visitors wishing to support open businesses in Lake Lure and Chimney Rock are encouraged to use U.S. 64/74 through Rutherfordton or Highway 9 in Mill Spring and return the same way.

What’s Next

NCDOT’s full press conference has been published for transparency and archival purposes. The agency emphasized that permanent reconstruction will bring long-term stability to one of Western North Carolina’s most scenic and heavily visited corridors. More photos may be viewed here.

WCAB News will continue to provide updates as construction moves forward.