Old Dominion News

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has released its weekly update on highway construction and maintenance projects in southwestern Virginia, covering the period from February 10 to 16, 2025. The department aims to keep motorists informed about ongoing projects and potential traffic disruptions.

Motorists are encouraged to stay informed by using VDOT’s 511 service or visiting their website for real-time traffic updates. The report includes several interstate projects:

- On Interstate 81 in Washington County, a project is underway to widen the southbound lanes between exits 10 and 7, with additional widening northbound from exit 7. Completion is expected by November 2025.

- Truck climbing lanes are being added on Interstate 81 at specific mile markers in Washington and Smyth counties. Motorists should be cautious of temporary lane closures during construction.

- In Wythe County, work continues on extending the deceleration lane at exit 81 southbound on Interstate 81, as well as constructing an auxiliary lane between exits 73 and 72.

- A Route 11 widening project is starting in Bristol to improve traffic flow and safety on I-81 off-ramps.

Additionally, bridge replacement and rehabilitation efforts are ongoing along Interstate 77 in Bland County. Maintenance activities across Interstates 81 and 77 include nighttime soil boring, pothole patching, bridge deck repairs, and inspections.

Primary highways and high-traffic secondary roads also see various improvements:

- In Buchanan County, Route 632 is closed for relocation related to a coal preparation plant expansion. Detours are in place until late spring.

- The Poplar Creek Phase A project continues on Route 460/121 in Buchanan County with permanent changes affecting Route 614 access points.

In Dickenson County, Grayson County, Smyth County, Scott County, Tazewell County, Washington County, and Wythe County multiple roadworks continue. Projects range from bridge replacements to intersection improvements aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency across the region's road network.