The Virginia Department of Transportation announced on Mar. 17 that southbound U.S. 1 (South Washington Highway) traffic in the Town of Ashland will be shifted onto a newly widened section between Ashcake Road and Arbor Oak Drive on Thursday morning, weather permitting. This change is part of ongoing construction to build a new raised median island, while northbound traffic will remain on its current route through the work area.
During this phase, vehicles will not be able to cross the median to access business entrances. Motorists are advised to slow down, pay attention when traveling through work zones, or consider alternate routes to avoid delays.
This traffic switch is part of a $12.1 million project aimed at widening a half-mile stretch of South Washington Highway from Arbor Oak Drive to Ashcake Road. The improvements include new left turn lanes, raised medians, and sidewalks designed to enhance safety and accessibility for drivers and pedestrians alike. More details about the project can be found on the project page.
The Virginia Department of Transportation is responsible for building, maintaining, and operating roads, bridges, and tunnels across Virginia to support a safe and efficient transportation system according to the official website. The agency manages one of the largest state highway systems in the country with tens of thousands of lane-miles according to the official website. VDOT also provides services such as highway maintenance, traffic management through systems like Virginia 511, and oversight of land-use permits along state routes according to the official website.
VDOT serves as a state agency overseeing planning, construction, and maintenance for roadways throughout Virginia according to the official website. The department originated from the State Highway Commission established in 1906 and has evolved over time as transportation needs have grown according to the official website. Its headquarters are located at 1221 East Broad Street in Richmond according to the official website.
For questions about this project, residents can contact VDOT’s customer service center at 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623). For up-to-date traffic information or road conditions, travelers can check 511Virginia online or by calling 511 from any phone within Virginia.
