Changes to I-64 traffic expected in Hampton as work continues on express lanes
Hampton, Virginia – Starting Sunday, September 29, motorists on I-64 in Hampton will encounter a new traffic pattern as construction progresses on the Hampton Roads Express Lanes (HREL) Hampton Segment. This change affects the area between Armistead Avenue/LaSalle Avenue (exit 265A/B) and Rip Rap Road (exit 265C). The updated configuration will last until summer 2025 to allow for continued roadwork, drainage upgrades, and noise barrier construction.
Traffic Shift Details and Closures
As part of the ongoing construction, eastbound and westbound traffic will be shifted toward the median, moving from the outside lanes to the inside lanes. Eastbound traffic changes will take effect as early as Sunday, September 29, while the westbound adjustments will start on Monday, September 30.
To facilitate these shifts, certain ramps will close nightly from September 29 to October 3, between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m.:
- The I-64 east off-ramp to Rip Rap Road (exit 265C).
- The I-64 west off-ramp to Armistead Avenue/LaSalle Avenue (exit 265B).
Signed detours will guide traffic during these closures, and motorists are advised to consider alternate routes. Specifically, travelers are encouraged to use I-664 to bypass the construction zone.
Safety Reminders and Travel Tips
Motorists should exercise caution while navigating the construction area, obey posted speed limits, follow lane markings and barrier guides, and remain alert to digital message signs. Distraction-free driving is strongly encouraged for the safety of all travelers and construction workers.
Before traveling, drivers are encouraged to check road and traffic conditions using VDOT’s free 511 Virginia traffic tools. These resources provide real-time updates on construction, traffic, incidents, and congestion, as well as access to traffic cameras and weather impacts. The information is available on VDOT’s website, 511Virginia.org, and through the mobile app. The 511-integrated Waze GPS app also provides updated road conditions.
Improvements as Part of the HREL Project
The HREL Hampton Segment project aims to convert the existing three eastbound and westbound general-purpose lanes into one Express Lane, a part-time Express Lane, and two general-purpose lanes in each direction. This will involve widening I-64, repaving the current lanes, and adding a new 12-foot-wide travel lane in both directions from west of Mallory Street (exit 268) to LaSalle Avenue (exit 265A), covering a 2-mile stretch. The project will also address work on six mainline bridges and a pedestrian underpass, including replacing two eastbound bridges over the Hampton River and widening and rehabilitating the westbound Hampton River bridge.
Ultimately, the HREL Hampton Segment will contribute to a larger, continuous 45-mile high-occupancy toll Express Lanes network on I-64. This network will span from west of Denbigh Boulevard in Newport News to the I-264/I-664 Bowers Hill interchange in Chesapeake. With the region experiencing increased traffic demand, the introduction of Express Lanes with dynamic tolling, alongside other interstate improvements, aims to manage congestion and provide reliable travel options for Hampton Roads motorists.
For further information on the Hampton Roads Express Lanes projects, including construction updates, traffic impacts, and to sign up for project updates, visit 64expresslanes.org.
