Old Dominion News

Traffic on the interchange ramp from southbound Interstate 81 to eastbound I-64 at exit 221 near Staunton will be restricted to one lane for three to four months starting Monday, March 10. This is due to bridge work that requires closing either the left or right lane around the clock. The schedule depends on weather conditions.

Beginning March 10, contractors will start widening the I-81 southbound bridge over the ramp to I-64. The project involves partial demolition and construction of new abutments and piers. Five bridges in total are being widened to add a third northbound and southbound lane on I-81 between exit 221 (I-64 interchange) and exit 225 (Route 262 north). This widening is part of the Interstate 81 Corridor Improvement Program (CIP).

In March 2023, the Commonwealth Transportation Board awarded a $101 million design-build contract to Kokosing Construction Company Inc., based in Westerville, Ohio. The project is expected to be completed by summer 2027. More details about the I-81 Staunton-area widening can be found on the VDOT project page.

The $3 billion CIP includes 65 construction projects along with operational improvements across I-81 in Virginia aimed at enhancing safety, reducing congestion, and fostering economic growth in the region. Additional information is available at Improve81.org, which offers interactive maps, videos, podcasts, and details about current and upcoming projects.

Other significant projects under the I-81 CIP within the VDOT Staunton District include truck-climbing lanes near Weyers Cave starting spring 2025, southbound widening near Strasburg beginning spring 2025, Harrisonburg-area widening set for commencement in 2026, and Winchester-area widening scheduled for start in 2028.

For real-time traffic alerts and traveler information, individuals can dial 511 or visit https://511.vdot.virginia.gov/.

The VDOT Customer Service Center provides assistance with reporting road hazards or inquiries related to Virginia’s roads through its hotline at 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623) or via its mobile-friendly website at https://my.vdot.virginia.gov. Agents are available around-the-clock every day of the week.

Updates from VDOT Staunton District can be followed on Facebook and X (Twitter), while statewide updates are available on Facebook, Flickr, and YouTube.

VDOT's main website can be accessed at https://www.vdot.virginia.gov/.

The VDOT Staunton District serves Frederick, Shenandoah, Clarke, Warren, Page, Rockingham, Augusta, Highland, Rockbridge, Alleghany and Bath counties.