Cowee Bald, Connelly Creek road construction

FRANKLIN, N.C. (Nov. 2, 2021) — Visitors to the Nantahala Ranger District should expect construction delays on Cowee Bald Road (NFSR 70) and Connelly Creek Road (NFSR 86) in the coming months.

A contractor will replace 34 culverts for a road improvement project funded in part by the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission for continuing sportsman’s access to National Forest Land.

The project will be completed in two phases, beginning with Connelly Creek Road (phase 1) and then Cowee Bald Road (phase 2). The contractor is expected to begin work on Monday, November 8 on Connelly Creek Road. During construction, visitors can expect up to 4-hour delays. Cowee Bald Road will be unaffected by delays during phase 1.

The contractor will begin work on Cowee Bald Road on approximately December 10. Visitors can expect up to 4-hour delays and no delay along Connelly Creek Road during phase 2.  These dates are weather dependent and subject to change. The entire project is expected to be complete by mid-January 2022.

For more information, please contact Nantahala Ranger District at (828)524-6441.