Asheville City Council approves I-26 connector project, including walking, biking paths

ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — After years of planning, the $7.3 million I-26 connector project is finally moving forward.

Asheville City Council approved the plan, which includes walking and biking paths in certain areas.

The paths are designed to better connect areas like west Asheville, downtown and Hillcrest.

BIDDING PROCESS FOR $1.2 BILLION I-26 CONNECTOR PROJECT EXPECTED TO BEGIN LATER THIS YEAR

They're meant to make it easier for pedestrians to get around the city.

"The $7.3 million commitment will be spread out on various different sections of the very large I-26 connector that includes the Bowen bridge," said David Uchiyama, NCDOT spokesperson. "Part of that $7.3 million will be to improve pedestrian, bicycle as well as aesthetics on the Bowen Bridge."

Local groups, like Asheville on Bikes, have questioned the safety of the pathways for pedestrians and cyclists, but NCDOT says safety is its top concern.