LAKE LURE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Nearly a year after Tropical Storm Helene devastated parts of Western North Carolina, businesses in Bat Cave, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure are reopening, but major road closures remain in place as recovery and rebuilding continue.
The N.C. Department of Transportation said roads through Gerton and Bat Cave are still closed to general traffic. Access is limited to property owners, residents and authorized contractors.
Officials said unauthorized use of the closed roads — including speeding, careless driving, stopping to take photos and illegal parking — has led to increased traffic enforcement. The Henderson County Sheriff’s Department has stepped up patrols, with violators facing a $450 citation, a mandatory court appearance and possible community service.
Despite the closures, Bat Cave, Lake Lure, Chimney Rock Village and Chimney Rock State Park are open and welcoming visitors. Travelers are encouraged to check town websites, social media or DriveNC.gov for updated access routes.
Current closures:
- N.C. 9 near Shumont Road: Open to local traffic only.
- U.S. 74A (Gerton Highway): Closed between the Rutherford County line and the Gerton Fire Department, local traffic only. Checkpoints are in place.
- U.S. 64 (Main Street): Closed from the Henderson-Rutherford County line to Chimney Rock Scenic Road, local traffic only, with checkpoints.
Authorities stressed that alternate open routes should be used while construction and recovery work continues.
