Fredericksburg, Virginia – Starting Monday, July 15, Route 17 northbound in Essex County will be reduced to a single lane for approximately two weeks near the Route 681 (Spindle Shop Road) intersection in the Loretto area. This lane reduction is due to a slope repair project being undertaken by the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) contractor crews.
The repair work aims to stabilize the slope supporting Route 17. According to VDOT, the project involves the use of a soil nail installer to construct a retaining wall. The soil nail installer will drill holes beneath the road and insert steel rods, each approximately 20 feet long, into the ground. These rods will be covered with a mesh wire net and anchored with bolts, followed by a concrete material covering the entire surface.
The contractor’s mobilization in the work zone will begin on July 15, with the slope repair expected to be completed by late July 2024. This construction is essential for ensuring the long-term stability and safety of Route 17.
Motorists are advised to plan for potential delays and to exercise caution when traveling through the work zone. Updated traffic and lane closure information for work zones, crashes, and other incidents can be found on 511Virginia.
For those traveling through this area, staying informed through 511Virginia will help manage travel plans and minimize inconvenience.
