NORTH CAROLINA, USA — Months after Hurricane Helene, much of Western North Carolina is still recovering, including I-40.

The interstate was badly damaged in the storm, prompting months of work to partially reopen a portion of it to allow through-traffic.

The two lanes opened up near the North Carolina-Tennessee line in March.

While this is a big win, the work is far from over.

A spokesperson with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) said the highway may not fully reopen for three years.

The NCDOT said several steps need to happen for the roadbed to be rebuilt.

The current project is creating a causeway from the double-tunnel to the state line, according to the NCDOT.

The projected cost of these repairs is $1 billion. • Download WFMY+ on your TV and watch for fre

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