The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has released its weekly update on traffic and construction projects for the week of May 19-25, 2025, in southwestern Virginia. The information is intended to assist motorists in planning their travels and navigating work zones safely.
VDOT encourages drivers to use caution and stay alert when traveling through highway work zones due to potential changes in traffic patterns and slow-moving or stopped traffic. Real-time traffic updates can be accessed via VDOT’s 511 service or by visiting https://511.vdot.virginia.gov.
Several ongoing interstate projects are highlighted in this week’s report:
1. Interstate 81 widening in Washington County involves expanding the southbound lanes between exits 10 and 7, as well as a mile-long section northbound from exit 7. This project is expected to be completed by November 2025.
2. In Smyth County, work continues on adding a truck climbing lane southbound near mile marker 34 on I-81, with completion anticipated by June 2025.
3. In Bristol, Route 11 and the I-81 off-ramps at exit 5 are being widened to improve traffic flow and safety, with a projected completion date of May 2026.
4. A deceleration lane extension project at exit 81 on I-81 southbound in Wythe County is underway, scheduled for completion by October 2025.
5. In Bland County, the replacement of the northbound I-77 bridge at exit 62 over Route 606 is ongoing with nighttime lane closures expected until late 2025.
Additionally, updates have been made regarding maintenance activities on Interstates 81 and 77:
– Nighttime bridge repairs will occur between mile markers in various counties.
– A super load will travel northbound from Bristol to the Virginia/West Virginia state line from May 19 -23.
On primary highways and high-traffic secondary roads:
1. Buchanan County sees ongoing bridge construction on Route 646 over Left Fork.
2. In Dickenson County, repairs are being made to the Route 619 bridge over Pound River.
3. Scott County’s Route intersection improvements continue at Duffield.
4. Tazewell County includes several projects like Front Street bridge replacement in Richlands.
5. Emergency pavement repairs are taking place along Route 80 (Hayters Gap Road) in Washington County.
6. Wise County’s Route intersection safety improvements near Indian Mountain Trade Center continue until December next year.
These updates aim to ensure public awareness about construction activities that may affect travel plans across these regions of Virginia.
