Southern Concrete Materials (SCM) has established a portable concrete plant in the I-40 Gorge Area of Haywood County to support ongoing recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene. 

On September 26, 2024, Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation in Western North Carolina, resulting in massive flooding and numerous road closures. The storm triggered a landslide that collapsed a section of I-40 near the North Carolina-Tennessee state line, creating an urgent need for a dependable concrete supplier to help restore this vital corridor. 

With AMES Construction leading the NCDOT project, SCM recognized the challenges of serving a remote, high-traffic area. The portable plant ensures efficient, reliable delivery for the I-40 repair effort while continuing to provide uninterrupted service to customers across Western North Carolina. 

“The hurricane caused I-40 to collapse into the far reaches of Haywood County, where the interstate hits the North Carolina state line going into Tennessee,” said Stedman Smith, VP/Central Region Manager. “SCM will supply concrete to the location where the slide occurred, assisting AMES with the repairs.” 

The interim facility minimizes long drive times, traffic delays, and logistical challenges associated with hauling concrete from Waynesville to the remote construction site. 

“They’re going to want to pour concrete daily to meet their goal of completing the project in two years,” Stedman added. “AMES can rely on us for excellent service, our vast experience working on NCDOT projects, and the proactive decision to build this dedicated plant to support their efforts and timeline.” 

SCM’s longstanding Waynesville plant will continue serving customers across Western North Carolina. By dedicating the new location to the I-40 project, SCM ensures that the surge in demand does not impact day-to-day residential, commercial, and municipal customers. 

The project also reinforces SCM’s commitment to leveraging its experienced workforce, deep regional knowledge, and strong supplier relationships to advance both infrastructure projects and community needs. 

Source: Southern Concrete Materials.