Long-awaited Candler area I-40 exit project progresses despite challenges, concerns

CANDLER, N.C. (WLOS) — Drivers who take Interstate 40 west of Asheville will get some relief from what can be a traffic nightmare. A project that has been in the works for years to bring another exit to the Candler area is moving forward.

"If you live in Candler, you know that I-40 gets very backed up on Exit 44," state Rep. Lindsey Prather said. "It's the only exit from I-40 that gets you to Candler."

On Wednesday, people who live in the Candler area heard from state leaders about a project that has been in the works for a couple years. It would add an exit along I-40 near Liberty Road. The goal is to help eliminate congestion for drivers who use Exit 44.

But reaching this point was not easy.

"Originally, the project was supposed to have started years ago, but there has been multiple issues," Prather said. "We had staffing problems and state governments. We've seen huge increases in prices for steel and all the things we need to build this interchange, and we also had delays during COVID.

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The new interchange will be known as Exit 41 or Exit 42 and will be located between Exit 44 -- the West Asheville/Enka/Candler exit -- and Exit 37 -- the East Canton exit.

Enka resident Jean Lafratta is worried the exit will cause more harm than good.

"I'm a little worried about it being so close to so much residential area, like our clubhouse and stuff," she said. "It's only going to be like 300 feet away."

Lafratta thinks the traffic noise will have a serious impact on nearby residents and their abilities to enjoy their outdoor spaces.

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Cost of the new exit is expected to fluctuate but should be around $106 million, according to the NCDOT.

"That plan was approved. It was almost done with the design phase," Prather said. "It has been funded. Timeline looks like they are going to start construction in 2027."

Construction is expected to be completed by 2031.