Contractor crews working with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will begin a long-term, single-lane closure in the center of I-64 west at J. Clyde Morris Boulevard (exit 258) in Newport News as early as overnight on August 11. The closure will reduce travel lanes from four to three.
Drivers will be directed to split around the work zone, using either two inside left lanes or one outside right lane. All three remaining lanes will continue to serve westbound I-64 traffic. Those needing access to exits 258A or 258B at J. Clyde Morris Boulevard must use the outside right lane.
To set up the new traffic pattern, a temporary full overnight closure of the I-64 west on-ramp from J. Clyde Morris Boulevard is planned for August 11, from 9 p.m. until 5 a.m., with a signed detour provided.
A similar traffic split is scheduled for I-64 east by late August. Both splits are expected to remain in place through fall 2025, though schedules may change due to weather or other factors.
The current changes represent the second phase of three long-term lane closures and shifts needed for bridge rehabilitation work tied to construction of the Hampton Roads Express Lanes (HREL) Newport News Segment.
“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,” VDOT stated.
VDOT encourages drivers to check road conditions before traveling by using its free 511 Virginia traffic tools or the Waze GPS app integrated with 511 services. The 511Virginia website and mobile app provide information about construction, incidents, congestion, and offer access to traffic cameras and weather updates.
The HREL Newport News Segment covers about 11.5 miles on I-64 between LaSalle Avenue in Hampton and just west of Denbigh Boulevard in Newport News. Most of this segment will see existing HOV lanes converted into Express Lanes alongside general purpose lanes; a smaller portion will convert one general purpose lane into an Express Lane in each direction.
Once completed, this segment will connect with a planned continuous network of high-occupancy toll Express Lanes stretching approximately 45 miles along I-64 from Newport News to Chesapeake. The project aims to address rising regional traffic demand by offering more travel options and managing congestion over time.
