The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has issued its weekly traffic alert for the Bristol District, covering the period from May 26 to June 1, 2025. The update provides information on highway construction and maintenance projects in southwestern Virginia, aiming to keep motorists informed about changes in traffic patterns and potential delays.
Motorists are advised to use caution when traveling through highway work zones and stay alert for slow-moving or stopped traffic. For real-time traffic updates, VDOT recommends calling their 511 service or visiting their website at https://511.vdot.virginia.gov.
Among the interstate projects currently underway is the widening of Interstate 81 in Washington County between exits 10 and 7, with a completion target set for November 2025. Additionally, a truck climbing lane is being added on I-81 southbound near mile marker 34 in Smyth County, expected to be completed by June 2025.
In Bristol, improvements are being made at Route 11 and I-81’s exit 5 to enhance traffic flow and safety. This project includes intersection improvements and is scheduled for completion by May 2026.
Several other projects are also highlighted across various counties including bridge replacements on Interstate 77 in Bland County and truck climbing lanes on I-77 northbound in Wythe County.
Primary highways and high-traffic secondary roads are also undergoing significant construction efforts. In Buchanan County, bridge construction on Route 646 over Left Fork began mid-April with an anticipated completion date of October 2025. Meanwhile, repairs continue on Route 619 (Skeetrock Road) bridge over Pound River in Dickenson County.
New projects include a bridge replacement on Route 642 (Crocketts Cove Road) in Tazewell County starting June 2, with work concluding by June 13, 2025.
Motorists are urged to pay close attention to signs and message boards throughout these areas to navigate detours effectively and remain informed about ongoing work zone activities.
