Route 604 near Woodstock set for long term closure to repair damaged bridge over Interstate 81
Woodstock, Virginia – Drivers in the Shenandoah Valley are being advised to prepare for a long-term road closure and additional interstate disruptions as crews work to repair a damaged bridge in the Woodstock area. A portion of Route 604, also known as North Street and Fairview Road, is scheduled to close Friday, Feb. 13, to allow repairs to the bridge that crosses over Interstate 81.
The closure affects the stretch of Route 604 between Summit Avenue and Route 676 (Fravel Road) and is expected to remain in place until April 30, weather permitting. During this time, signs will direct motorists to use Spring Street as a detour. Local drivers are encouraged to plan extra travel time and follow posted signs in the area.
Bridge damage prompts extended repairs
According to the Virginia Department of Transportation, the repairs are necessary after a serious incident last fall. In September, a dump truck traveling with its bed raised struck the Route 604 bridge over I-81 near mile marker 285. The impact caused extensive damage to a structural beam, making a full repair effort unavoidable.
Contractors working for VDOT will use the closure period to safely access the bridge and begin the complex repair process. Officials say closing Route 604 is required to protect both workers and drivers while the damaged beam is addressed.
In addition to the local road closure, motorists should also prepare for impacts on Interstate 81. VDOT says there will be at least one overnight closure of I-81 southbound in the same area, tentatively scheduled for early to mid-March. That closure will allow crews to cut through the bridge deck and railing so the damaged beam can be removed and replaced.
Traffic impacts from the southbound interstate closure are expected to extend beyond northern Shenandoah County, affecting drivers in Frederick and Warren counties as well. Before the full interstate closure takes place, crews will also conduct occasional overnight single-lane closures on I-81 southbound, beginning in mid-February, to complete preliminary work.
VDOT emphasized that all construction is weather permitting, and schedules may change. Additional details about the interstate closure will be shared in the coming weeks as plans are finalized.
