ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The North Carolina Department of Transportation has announced that the flyover ramp connecting Patton Avenue to Westgate Parkway will permanently close on Sunday, Aug. 2 to make way for the Interstate 26 Connector project.

The NCDOT said that the closure is a necessary step for the I-26 Connector to be built, but that “Westgate businesses and destinations will remain accessible throughout construction.”

Eastbound drivers on Patton Avenue who wish to access Westgate Parkway should follow the detour along I-240 West/I-26 East to the Haywood Road exit, cross the interstate to merge onto I-240 East/I-26 West and take Exit 3B to Westgate Parkway.

New temporary signage has been set up prior to the closure to prepare motorists for the new traffic pattern.

“Some traffic patterns will continue to change as construction progresses,” said Nathan Moneyham, NCDOT Division 13 Construction Engineer. “This closure allows crews to safely move into the next phase of the project while maintaining access to the Westgate area. We appreciate the public’s patience as we continue building these long-term improvements.”