Contractor crews with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) are set to begin a long-term, single-lane closure in the center of I-64 east at J. Clyde Morris Boulevard (exit 258) in Newport News as early as overnight on August 18. This change will reduce travel lanes from four to three. A similar traffic shift was put into place last week on I-64 west at the same location.
Drivers will be required to split around the work zone by using either two inside left lanes or one outside right lane. All three remaining lanes will continue to carry eastbound I-64 through traffic. Those needing access to exits 258A and 258B must use the outside right lane.
To implement this new traffic pattern, there will be a temporary full overnight closure of the I-64 east on-ramp from J. Clyde Morris Boulevard south starting as early as August 18, from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m., with detours marked for drivers.
The current traffic splits are expected to remain in effect through fall 2025, though all work is dependent on weather and scheduling and may change.
According to VDOT, “This traffic pattern is the second of three phases of long-term, single-lane closures and traffic shifts on I-64 at J. Clyde Morris Boulevard to facilitate bridge rehabilitation work as part of construction of the Hampton Roads Express Lanes (HREL) Newport News Segment.”
Motorists are urged by VDOT: “Motorists are reminded to use caution when traveling near work zones, obey posted speed limits, follow lane markings and barrier guides, be alert to digital message signs and drive distraction-free.”
VDOT recommends that travelers check road conditions before departing by using its free 511 Virginia tools or Waze GPS app for real-time updates about construction, incidents, congestion, and other travel information via their website or mobile app.
The HREL Newport News Segment project covers approximately 11.5 miles along I-64 between Hampton and Newport News. The project includes converting existing high occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes into express toll lanes over most of this stretch while maintaining general purpose lanes for regular traffic. Ultimately, this segment will become part of a continuous 45-mile network of express toll lanes extending from west of Denbigh Boulevard in Newport News to Chesapeake’s Bowers Hill interchange.
The expansion aims to address increasing regional traffic demand by providing more travel options and helping manage congestion over time.
