Old Dominion News

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has initiated a new safety project on Route 23 in Wise County in partnership with Jones Road & Bridge, Inc. from Abingdon. The project aims to enhance both the safety and flow of traffic on the stretch of Route 23 near the Indian Mountain Trade Center by adding turn lanes and removing certain median crossovers.

Several key changes will be made as part of the construction. These include the addition of south and northbound left turn lanes at the Route 23 and Carriage Lane intersection, a southbound left turn lane at the northern entrance to the Indian Mountain Trade Center, a northbound right turn lane at the trade center, and a southbound left turn lane at Piggy Went a Smokin' BBQ. Each turn lane will have an area designated for queuing vehicles.

In addition to these modifications, the median opening at the intersection of Route 23 and Dakota Road will be closed, affecting traffic patterns. "Left turns will not be permitted onto Route 23 southbound from the trade center entrances." To access southbound Route 23, drivers from the trade center will be required to travel north approximately 0.25 miles north of Carriage Lane before executing a safe u-turn.

Route 23 currently supports the movement of about 13,200 vehicles daily. Motorists can expect lane closures in both directions during the construction period. The project has been contracted for $4.6 million, with an expected completion by the end of 2025.