CHS Blue Ridge proposes to construct new space on the Valdese hospital campus for existing hospital outpatient services.

According to a news release from the NC Department of Health and Human Services, the project is expected to cost just over $83 million and would be completed in December 2021.

A public hearing for this project will be held at noon June 18th in the Valdese Public Library, 213 St.Germaine Avenue, SE.

NCDOT is requesting a non-declared emergency provision to hire contractors immediately to assist with storm damage recovery in Polk County.

Severe rain and thunderstorms on Friday night closed I-26 for about 6 hours, U.S.176 and multiple secondary roads in the county for longer periods of time.

The provision would expediate the process of local DOT officials hiring a contractor cleanup, debris removal, culvert replacements, shoulder repair, guardrail restoration and other restorations. Early estimates for the contract range from $1.5-2 million.

A man turned himself into Long View authorities Friday morning after being charged with one count of felony hit-and-run causing serious injury or death.

Michael Ryan Cooke is believed to be responsible for striking and killing a man walking in the roadway on US Highway 70 around 5 am Wednesday.

Reports list Cooke as the co-owner of the truck that drove away from the fatal scene.

A warrant had been issued for Cooke’s arrest Thursday afternoon.

Cooke was issued an 18-thousand-dollar secured bond with a court date set for today.

Phony IRS callers are making rounds in McDowell County again.

Authorities are urging citizens to steer clear of their claims.

Residents are receiving calls from individuals saying they are from the IRS; telling those they call they owe money and giving them instructions how to pay their debt, and further threatening that if they don’t pay, a warrant will be issued for their arrest.

Keep in mind, the IRS does business through the mail, never by phone.

Officials advise residents to ignore these calls, and do not send money or give any personal information.

Anyone with questions or concerns can call the McDowell Sheriff’s Office at 652-2235.