I-81 Overnight Lane Closures Announced in Warren County

Bridge Beams Placement to Prompt Single-Lane Shutdowns From July 24-26

Warren County motorists, take heed: a significant bridge replacement project on Interstate 81 will lead to overnight lane closures from July 24-26. The work is part of ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and enhance road safety in the area.

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has announced specific plans for the imminent closures between mile markers 298 and 300 on I-81. The changes are slated to begin at 8 p.m. and continue until 7 a.m. on the aforementioned dates. These restrictions are essential for contractors to station cranes and place concrete beams for a revamped southbound bridge across Route 840 (Water Plant Road), positioned slightly south of I-81 exit 300 and its intersection with I-66.

A brief breakdown of the closures is:

• July 24 (Monday): Both northbound and southbound I-81 left lanes will be inaccessible.

• July 25 (Tuesday): Southbound I-81’s left lane will be closed.

• July 26 (Wednesday): A repeat of Monday’s closures with both left lanes on I-81 out of service.

Those navigating Route 840 around the I-81 bridge should stay vigilant due to flagger-controlled traffic during the above-mentioned nights and timings.

Caution is especially stressed around the I-81 and I-66 junction—a notably high-traffic zone. Also, travelers should remain observant of potential shoulder closures on both northbound and southbound sides throughout the project’s duration. A restricted speed limit of 55 mph has been put in place within the work zone for everyone’s safety.

VDOT’s overarching goal is to alleviate congestion and bolster safety through enhancements, which include widening the southbound bridge and extending the I-66 on-ramp. The initiative, backed by Virginia’s SMART SCALE program, has further details on VDOT’s official website.

Financially, Triton Construction Inc., based in St. Albans, W.Va., secured a $7,140,300 contract, officially awarded by the Commonwealth Transportation Board on May 17, 2022. Project completion is set for November 2024, contingent on weather conditions.

VDOT’s Staunton District, responsible for this project, serves an extensive list of counties, including Frederick, Shenandoah, Clarke, and more.

The forthcoming I-81 closures, while temporarily inconvenient, represent a significant step towards a safer and more efficient roadway network in Warren County. Residents and travelers are encouraged to stay informed through VDOT’s official channels and adjust their travel plans accordingly.