Virginia Department of Transportation pushes forward with I-81 bridge and lane upgrades despite colder months
Salem, Virginia – As part of a major infrastructure effort to enhance safety and ease congestion, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) continues to advance work on widening a heavily traveled stretch of Interstate 81 between exit 143 in Roanoke County and exit 150 in Botetourt County. The project, which began in summer 2025, is entering a new phase as winter approaches.
Shoulder Closures and Barrier Installation to Continue
During the colder months, crews will continue installing barrier wall along the shoulder in specific areas. Drivers should expect shoulder closures to remain in place through the winter season, with additional barrier wall installations scheduled for the following year. VDOT has already implemented nighttime lane closures during previous months to support shoulder strengthening and widening work, which is critical for future traffic shifts and median construction.
In November, traffic traveling southbound on I-81 was shifted to the right shoulder from exit 150 in Botetourt County to exit 146 in Roanoke County. This traffic pattern adjustment allows workers to prepare the median for construction. Nighttime lane closures will likely continue throughout winter to facilitate this ongoing work.
Public Meeting Planned Ahead of 2026 Construction Ramp-Up
Looking ahead to more intensive construction activity in spring and summer 2026, VDOT and its design-build partner, Branch Civil Inc., plan to host a public information meeting in January 2026. The session will be held at Lord Botetourt High School and is aimed at informing the public about expected impacts, traffic management plans, and project milestones. Residents and travelers who rely on I-81 are encouraged to attend and stay informed about changes that may affect their commute.
Comprehensive Project to Improve Safety and Mobility
The current widening initiative includes the replacement of eight bridges along the corridor, the installation of over 8,500 feet of sound barrier along the northbound lanes, and the realignment of two ramps at exit 150, with one ramp being completely removed. These changes are designed to reduce accidents, shorten emergency response times, and ease travel delays on one of the region’s most vital roadways.
This project is a major component of the larger Interstate 81 Corridor Improvement Program (CIP), a nearly $4 billion statewide initiative enacted in 2019. The CIP includes 65 capital projects and various operational enhancements along the 325-mile Virginia segment of I-81. The Commonwealth Transportation Board approved a $361 million design-build contract for the current work zone in July 2024, with full project completion targeted for summer 2031.
More information on the I-81 Corridor Improvement Program, project updates, and travel impacts can be found at Improve81.org.
