Major construction project will close I-264 west exit to Ballentine Boulevard until mid August
Norfolk, Virginia – Motorists traveling through Norfolk should prepare for significant traffic changes as the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) begins construction work on the I-264 West/Ballentine Boulevard Ramp Improvements Project. Starting overnight as early as July 25, the I-264 westbound off-ramp to Ballentine Boulevard (exit 12) will be closed for several weeks.
This temporary closure will allow contractor crews to fully demolish and repave both lanes of the existing off-ramp. The goal is to expand the ramp to three lanes, enhancing traffic flow and safety. The updated configuration will include two right-turn lanes and one left-turn lane onto Ballentine Boulevard.
VDOT has outlined a signed detour route to guide drivers around the closure. Westbound I-264 motorists will be directed to exit at East Brambleton Avenue (exit 11B), then continue along Park Avenue and East Virginia Beach Boulevard, before rejoining Ballentine Boulevard.
In addition to the ramp closure, drivers should also expect lane restrictions on Ballentine Boulevard itself. The outside right travel lane of northbound Ballentine Boulevard, between Westminster Avenue and The Tide light rail tracks, will be closed. This will reduce northbound travel to a single lane in that stretch.
The off-ramp closure and accompanying lane reductions are expected to remain in place through mid-August, depending on weather and construction progress. VDOT emphasizes that all dates and plans are subject to change due to weather or scheduling factors.
For real-time updates and travel planning, VDOT encourages motorists to use their free 511 Virginia traffic tools, including the mobile app, website (511virginia.org), or the 511-integrated Waze GPS app. These tools provide access to live traffic conditions, construction alerts, incidents, congestion updates, weather-related impacts, and traffic camera feeds.
Motorists are urged to allow for additional travel time and exercise caution when navigating the detour routes. VDOT appreciates the public’s patience as they work to improve safety and efficiency on one of Norfolk’s key transportation corridors.
