Six months have passed since Hurricane Helene impacted western North Carolina, and the N.C. Department of Transportation has made significant progress in restoring the area. As of today, 90% of the roads damaged by the storm have been reopened, according to NCDOT. Crews have repaired over 270 bridges and 870 culverts, and have restored key transportation routes, including Interstate 40, reconnecting North Carolina with Tennessee.
Despite the challenging weather, workers continued upgrading gravel paths to asphalt in Yancey County and Chimney Rock, and replacing temporary bridges with permanent structures. NCDOT has also been holding public meetings to gather feedback as part of its ongoing recovery efforts, ensuring community involvement and transparency in the process.
The N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles has announced extended service hours for 42 driver license offices starting tomorrow, as per NCDOT. These offices will open at 7 a.m., offering an additional hour for appointments and walk-in services. Summer walk-in hours will also return, with 20 offices across the state providing Saturday service from June 7 to August 23.
NC By Train is offering a special ride for fans attending NASCAR's return to Rockingham Speedway this month. The "Rockingham Special" will depart from Raleigh Union Station on April 19, with stops in Southern Pines and Cary before arriving at the speedway, as reported by NCDOT. The $25 one-way tickets provide a convenient alternative to traffic and parking, with food and beverages available for purchase on board. Tickets are available at ncbytrain.org and Amtrak.com.
