I-81 Lane Closures Expected as Construction Ramps Up in Harrisonburg

Construction is set to begin on a major Interstate 81 widening project in the Harrisonburg area, with drivers advised to prepare for overnight lane closures and ongoing work over the coming years.

The Virginia Department of Transportation says crews could start overnight construction as early as Monday, April 20, along I-81 in both Harrisonburg and Rockingham County. The project will expand a busy stretch of highway by adding a third lane in each direction, aiming to improve safety and reduce congestion.

Work will take place between about one mile south of Exit 243 at Route 11 and mile marker 244 near Rocktown High School. During construction, motorists should expect around-the-clock shoulder closures and overnight single-lane closures in both directions from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. These early efforts will focus on strengthening the right shoulder.

Transportation officials say all lanes will remain open during peak travel times to limit disruptions. Lane closures will also be restricted during major holidays and events to help keep traffic moving.

Drivers are urged to stay alert when traveling through the work zone, watching for changing traffic patterns, construction vehicles, and workers near the roadway. Officials note that schedules may shift depending on weather conditions.

The Harrisonburg-area project is part of Virginia’s larger Interstate 81 Corridor Improvement Program, a nearly $4 billion effort that includes dozens of construction and operational upgrades along the highway. The Harrisonburg widening alone carries a $219 million price tag and is expected to be completed by summer 2032.

Several other projects are underway or planned in the region, including widening work in Staunton, truck-climbing lanes near Weyers Cave, and future improvements in Strasburg and Winchester.

State leaders say the long-term goal is to make I-81 safer, ease traffic congestion, and support economic growth across the corridor. For now, drivers traveling through the Harrisonburg area should plan for overnight delays and use extra caution as construction gets underway.