The Virginia Department of Transportation announced on March 20 its weekly update on highway construction and maintenance projects in southwestern Virginia for the period of March 23 to March 29, 2026. The department advised motorists to use caution when traveling through work zones and to stay alert for changes in traffic patterns and slow-moving or stopped vehicles.
This update is part of VDOT’s ongoing efforts to keep drivers informed about road conditions and help them plan their travel more efficiently. Motorists are encouraged to call VDOT’s 511 service or visit https://511.vdot.virginia.gov for real-time traffic information.
Major interstate projects include the extension of the deceleration lane at exit 45 northbound on Interstate 81 in Smyth County, widening projects on I-81 in Washington County, improvements at exit 5 in Bristol, auxiliary lane construction between exits 73 and 72 in Wythe County, and a truck climbing lane project on I-77 northbound from mile marker 30.6 to exit 32 in Wythe County. Updates also include maintenance activities such as bridge repairs, pothole patching, brush removal, slope work, and inspections across various counties.
On primary highways and high-traffic secondary roads, several closures and detours are in place due to bridge replacements, culvert work, roundabout construction, intersection improvements, line striping activities, safety enhancements, and new connector road developments. Notable projects include the closure of Route 608 (Skydusky Road) in Bland County for bridge replacement until August 2026; culvert replacement on Route 1003 (Walnut Street) in Buchanan County; roundabout construction at Route 83/637 in Dickenson County; sight distance improvements on Route 82 at Long Hollow Road in Russell County; intersection upgrades at Route 23/58 in Scott County; multiple bridge replacements and intersection improvements throughout Tazewell and Wythe counties; as well as ongoing work at Progress Park Connector/I-77 Exit 41.
According to the official website, the Virginia Department of Transportation is responsible for building, maintaining, and operating Virginia’s roads, bridges, and tunnels with a focus on safety and efficiency. The agency manages one of the largest state highway systems nationwide—covering tens of thousands of lane-miles—and provides services such as highway maintenance and traffic management through systems like Virginia 511. VDOT also oversees land-use permits along state routes.
VDOT serves as a state agency overseeing planning, construction, and maintenance across Virginia’s transportation infrastructure—a role it has developed since its origins as the State Highway Commission established in 1906 according to its official website. The department’s headquarters is located at 1221 East Broad Street in Richmond.
