Motorists traveling on I-64 west in Newport News will see a new traffic pattern at J. Clyde Morris Boulevard (exit 258) starting overnight as early as September 30, weather and schedule permitting. This change is part of the third and final phase of bridge rehabilitation at J. Clyde Morris Boulevard, which is included in the construction of the Hampton Roads Express Lanes (HREL) Newport News Segment.
As part of this phase, one outside lane will close, reducing travel lanes from four to three through most of this section of I-64 west. On- and off-ramps will not be affected by the work. The shift will also bring an end to the “traffic split” that has been in place on I-64 west at J. Clyde Morris Boulevard.
The new traffic pattern, which moves vehicles toward the inside of the roadway over the bridge, is expected to remain until late 2025. A similar shift is planned for I-64 east at J. Clyde Morris Boulevard as early as the week of October 5.
All schedules depend on weather and may change if conditions require adjustments.
Drivers are advised to use caution near work zones, obey posted speed limits, follow lane markings and barrier guides, pay attention to digital message signs, and avoid distractions while driving.
Before traveling, motorists can check current road and travel conditions using VDOT’s free 511 Virginia traffic tools or the Waze GPS app with integrated 511 information. The 511Virginia website and mobile app provide updates about construction, traffic incidents, congestion, access to traffic cameras, weather impacts, and more.
The HREL Newport News Segment project covers approximately 11.5 miles on I-64 from just east of LaSalle Avenue (exit 265) in Hampton to 1.2 miles west of Denbigh Boulevard in Newport News. For most of this segment—10.5 miles between just west of Jefferson Avenue (exit 255) and I-664 (exit 264)—the existing HOV lane in each direction will be converted into an Express Lane alongside three general purpose lanes. In the final mile between I-664 and LaSalle Avenue, one general purpose lane in each direction will become an Express Lane alongside two general purpose lanes.
When complete, this segment will be part of a continuous 45-mile high-occupancy toll Express Lanes network on I-64 stretching from west of Denbigh Boulevard in Newport News to the I-264/I-664 Bowers Hill interchange in Chesapeake. As regional traffic demand increases, adding Express Lanes with dynamic tolling along with other interstate improvements aims to help manage congestion long-term while providing more travel options for drivers.
VDOT now offers an interactive map on its Long-Term Traffic Impacts page that shows current long-term lane and ramp closures along all HREL projects. The tool helps motorists stay informed about potential travel impacts and focus on locations relevant to their trips.
“Motorists are reminded to use caution when traveling near work zones, obey posted speed limits, follow lane markings and barrier guides, be alert to digital message signs and drive distraction-free.”
“Before hitting the road, consider using VDOT’s free 511 Virginia traffic tools, or the free 511-integrated Waze GPS app, to check for the most up-to-date road and travel conditions.”
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