Major traffic changes begin on I-64 in Hampton as westbound Hampton River Bridge opens

Hampton, Virginia – Motorists traveling through Hampton on I-64 west should prepare for significant changes starting as early as Monday, May 5, as construction progresses on the Hampton Roads Express Lanes (HREL) Hampton Segment. The newly widened and rehabilitated westbound Hampton River bridge will officially reopen to traffic, marking an important milestone in the extensive project. This change will result in a new traffic pattern that will affect both westbound and eastbound drivers for the foreseeable future.

As part of the updated configuration, two westbound lanes on I-64 will be shifted from the existing eastbound Hampton River bridge to the newly reopened westbound bridge. This shift will take place between Woodland Road (exit 267) and Armistead Avenue/LaSalle Avenue (exit 265B). Meanwhile, eastbound I-64 traffic will remain on the eastbound bridge, but will shift toward the median between Armistead Avenue (exit 265C) and Settlers Landing Road (exit 267). This long-term traffic setup is essential to continue construction efforts safely and efficiently.

Eastbound Bridge Demolition to Follow Later in the Spring

This shift marks only the first step in a larger traffic plan that will continue through late 2026. As early as late spring 2025, two eastbound lanes on I-64 will also be shifted from the eastbound bridge to the newly reopened westbound bridge. This will place them alongside the westbound traffic to allow for the demolition and reconstruction of the eastbound Hampton River bridge. Once this portion of construction is complete and the new bridge opens, eastbound traffic will return to its designated lanes.

The traffic shifts are expected to remain in place until the end of construction. The new eastbound bridge is anticipated to reopen to regular traffic in late 2026, providing a modernized crossing for eastbound travelers.

Overnight Ramp Closures Scheduled as Work Begins

The implementation of the new westbound traffic pattern will begin with overnight work starting as early as Sunday, May 4. Drivers should be aware of overnight ramp closures from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., which may cause delays. Specific closures include:

• I-64 on-ramp from Settlers Landing Road/Woodland Road

• I-64 east off-ramp to Settlers Landing Road/Hampton University (exit 267)

Drivers are encouraged to use I-664 as an alternate route to avoid potential congestion during the overnight work periods. In addition, motorists are reminded to travel cautiously through the work zones. “Motorists are encouraged to use I-664 as an alternate route to avoid the work area when possible and are reminded to use caution when traveling near work zones, obey posted speed limits, follow lane markings and barrier guides, be alert to digital message signs and drive distraction-free.”

To help plan trips and stay informed of changing traffic conditions, travelers should check VDOT’s free 511 Virginia tools, or use the Waze GPS app, which is integrated with the 511 system. The 511Virginia.org website and mobile app provide up-to-date information about construction impacts, road conditions, incidents, and more.

Hampton Roads Express Lanes Hampton Segment Will Transform Regional Travel

The current work is part of the larger HREL Hampton Segment (Phase 4C) Project, which aims to transform travel on I-64 in this busy region. This phase involves converting the three existing general purpose lanes in each direction into a new configuration that will include one Express Lane, one part-time Express Lane, and two general purpose lanes. Additionally, I-64 will be widened, existing lanes will be repaved, and a new 12-foot-wide travel lane will be added in each direction.

The project stretches from west of Mallory Street (exit 268) to LaSalle Avenue (exit 265A), covering approximately two miles. Work will be performed on six mainline bridges and one pedestrian underpass, with the most significant changes being the replacement of the two eastbound Hampton River bridges and the widening and rehabilitation of the westbound bridge.

When complete, this phase will connect to a broader 45-mile Express Lanes network, extending from west of Denbigh Boulevard in Newport News to the I-264/I-664 Bowers Hill interchange in Chesapeake. By combining dynamic tolling Express Lanes with general purpose lanes, the project aims to manage regional congestion more effectively, offer more travel choices, and provide a more reliable commute for Hampton Roads drivers.

For more information on the project and to sign up for updates, visit 64expresslanes.org.