Old Dominion News

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has issued its weekly traffic alert for the Bristol District, covering March 3 to March 9, 2025. This update is part of VDOT's ongoing efforts to keep motorists informed about highway construction and maintenance projects in southwestern Virginia.

Motorists are encouraged to use caution when traveling through highway work zones and remain alert to changes in traffic patterns as well as slow-moving or stopped traffic. For real-time traffic information, drivers can call VDOT’s 511 or visit their website.

Significant interstate projects include the widening of Interstate 81 in Washington County between exits 10 and 7 southbound, with completion expected by November 2025. In addition, truck climbing lanes are being added on I-81 at mile markers in Washington and Smyth counties. An extension of the deceleration lane at exit 81 on I-81 southbound is also underway in Wythe County.

In Bristol, a project is starting to widen Route 11 along with improvements on the I-81 off-ramps aimed at enhancing traffic flow and safety. This project includes intersection and signal upgrades with an expected completion date of May 2026.

A new project on Interstate 77 involves roadway improvements from exit 40 to exit 47 in Wythe County, anticipated to be completed by May 2025. Meanwhile, bridge replacement work continues on northbound I-77 over Route 606 (Wilderness Road) in Bland County.

Various maintenance activities will result in lane closures across Interstates 81 and 77 due to pothole patching, bridge inspections, and tunnel maintenance.

Primary highways and secondary roads across several counties also have ongoing construction projects. Notably, Route 632 (Page Drive) remains closed for relocation works related to a coal preparation plant expansion in Buchanan County. Similarly, significant developments are occurring on Routes such as the Poplar Creek Phases A & B near Grundy.

Projects like the Route 63 bridge replacement in Dickenson County and pipe replacements on Route 670 (Laurel View Road) in Grayson County continue as planned. Additionally, intersection improvements are taking place at various locations including Scott County's Duffield area along Route23/58.

Motorists should remain vigilant around these work zones for potential detours or temporary signals controlling one-way traffic flow until each project's respective completion date.

For more detailed information regarding specific projects mentioned above or other roadwork updates within the region covered by this notice from February through August—refer directly via contact points provided earlier: calling "511" hotline service offered statewide free-of-charge plus online resources available anytime day-or-night!