HENDERSONVILLE, N.C. — The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office clarified on Monday that a temporary road near the Bat Cave and Chimney Rock areas remains unsuitable for general public travel. In a statement released by Edneyville Fire & Rescue, officials emphasized that while the route has enabled some residents to access their homes, it is not a fully restored section of Highway 64/74.
The emergency road, described as a narrow one-lane dirt path, was put in place for residents and emergency responders only. “Understand this road is a very narrow one lane dirt path road,” read the announcement. It added that some portions remain muddy due to natural springs, making the path increasingly difficult to navigate without four-wheel drive.
Local authorities urged caution, highlighting that recent reports suggesting highways 64, 74, or 9 have reopened are not entirely accurate. “To say they are open is not a good representation for what most think of,” officials noted, underscoring that the roads are currently accessible only in a limited, temporary capacity.
The recovery efforts are anticipated to be prolonged, as several areas require substantial rebuilding before construction can commence. In many instances, the original roadbeds no longer exist, requiring complete redesigns.
Residents and drivers are advised to avoid using these temporary routes unless essential, as increased traffic can further impede local access and emergency response efforts.
