North Carolina Governor Josh Stein released a statement Monday (Feb. 10, 2025) saying the state plans to reopen two lanes of I-40 near the Tennessee border by March 1st. Governor Stein said he was proud of the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s “focus on this challenge and the roadworkers who have worked tirelessly to reopen roads and keep people safe.” Governor Stein also said reopening these lanes will help reconnect the two states and allow North Carolina to welcome back visitors to bolster the economy.