BOONE, N.C. (WHKY) – An N.C. Department of Transportation contractor has started removing the 70-year-old bridge on N.C. 105 in Watauga County. Motorists may see increased construction activity while crews are working.

Flaggers will direct traffic at the intersection of N.C. 105 and Broadstone Road throughout the operation to protect drivers from any debris. Operations will continue nightly until the structure is removed. 

After removal, crews will begin building the final portion of the new bridge over the Watauga River. Crews opened the first portion of the new bridge in late August.

Motorists should allow additional travel time, avo id distracted driving and obey posted signs and flaggers. Wright Brothers Construction began construction on the $48.7 million project in fall 2022. All construction is anticipated to finish in late 2027. 

For real-time travel information, visit DriveNC.gov and follow NCDOT on social media .