Construction has commenced on a project aimed at improving traffic flow near exit 126 on I-95 in Spotsylvania. The initiative seeks to alleviate congestion for travelers entering both northbound and southbound directions of the interstate by expanding Route 1 to six lanes near the interchange and adding a second left turn lane for on-ramp access.
The $42 million endeavor will include the construction of an auxiliary lane on I-95 northbound, extending from the on-ramp to the Route 208 (Courthouse Road) overpass. This is intended to assist vehicles merging with interstate traffic. Both northbound and southbound on-ramps will be widened to accommodate dual left turn lanes.
In addition, two noise barriers are planned along I-95 southbound. One will be located north of Courthouse Road near Paytes Lane and Phyllis Lane, while another will be situated south of Courthouse Road near Clarke Court.
Funding for this project comes from Spotsylvania County, Virginia’s SMART SCALE program, and federal transportation funds. Initial work involves setting up work zone barriers along I-95 shoulders near exit 126.
During June 9-13, adjustments will be made to Route 1 northbound travel lanes within the work zone to allow barrier installation along the median. Motorists are advised to remain vigilant around construction zones due to periodic lane closures and shifts in travel patterns, although most disruptions will avoid peak times.
Completion is expected by September 2027. Shirley Contracting Company and Dewberry have been designated as contractors for this design-build project.
Updates regarding scheduled lane closures can be found in VDOT Fredericksburg District Traffic Alerts online every Friday evening.
Simultaneously, another road improvement project near exit 126 is nearing its conclusion ahead of schedule in June 2025. This separate $16.6 million venture began in March 2023 under Branch Civil’s management. It involved adding a second right turn lane on the I-95 southbound off-ramp now open, reducing delays during peak hours.
Additional enhancements include widening Route 1 southbound with an extra travel lane between the off-ramp and Southpoint Parkway, introducing a second right turn lane from Route 1 onto Southpoint Parkway, and implementing Highway Safety Improvement Program measures funded federally on Southpoint Parkway to mitigate crash risks through strategic traffic island placements.
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