A new auxiliary lane on southbound Interstate 81 in Augusta County opened to traffic early Tuesday, August 26. The lane connects the on-ramp from exit 221 at the I-64 junction and the off-ramp to exit 220 at Route 262 south near Staunton. This addition is intended to improve safety and reduce congestion where I-64 and I-81 intersect by giving drivers more space for merging and exiting.
Drivers are advised to watch for overnight right-lane closures and daytime shoulder closures as construction nears completion. Weather may affect work schedules, and a speed limit of 60 miles per hour will remain in effect in the work zone until the project is finished.
The auxiliary lane is part of the larger I-81 Corridor Improvement Program (CIP), which also included replacing the Route 635 (Barterbrook Road) overpass bridge. The new bridge, which opened in June 2025, was built to accommodate both the new auxiliary lane and possible future expansion of I-81.
In October 2023, Fairfield-Echols LLC of Fishersville, Virginia, was awarded a $7.7 million contract for this project by the Commonwealth Transportation Board. The contract completion date is set for October 3, 2025.
The CIP involves about $3 billion in investment for construction projects and operational improvements along I-81 in Virginia. There are currently 65 projects aimed at improving safety, easing congestion, and supporting economic growth along the corridor. More information about these projects can be found at Improve81.org (https://improve81.org/).
Other major CIP efforts underway or planned in the VDOT Staunton District include widening projects near Staunton, Strasburg, Harrisonburg (starting early 2026), Winchester (starting in 2028), as well as truck-climbing lanes at Weyers Cave.
For real-time traffic updates and traveler information, motorists can call 511 or visit https://511.vdot.virginia.gov/. The VDOT Customer Service Center offers assistance around-the-clock via phone at 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623) or online at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov/.
The VDOT Staunton District covers Frederick, Shenandoah, Clarke, Warren, Page, Rockingham, Augusta, Highland, Rockbridge, Alleghany and Bath counties.
