Drivers now have three travel lanes in both directions on Interstate 81 between exits 137 and 141 in Roanoke County and Salem following the completion of the primary widening work.
The five-mile project expanded the interstate from two lanes to three lanes in each direction as part of a $179 million design-build project. Construction began in early 2022, making it the first widening project of the Interstate 81 Corridor Improvement Program.
The project also includes several additional improvements, including new bridges over Route 112 (Wildwood Road), Route 635 (Goodwin Avenue) and Route 619 (Wildwood Road); wider bridges over Route 311 (Thompson Memorial Drive) at Exit 140; intersection improvements at the southbound Exit 137 off-ramp and Wildwood Road; new interchange lighting at exits 137, 140 and 141; and improved acceleration and deceleration lanes.
Approximately 2.6 miles of new sound barrier walls have also been installed along the northbound lanes.
The opening of the additional lanes means motorists now have three travel lanes in each direction from Exit 137 to Exit 143, where Interstate 81 connects with Interstate 581.
“VDOT would like to thank drivers for their patience during this construction project,” said Dave Covington, I-81 program delivery director for the Virginia Department of Transportation. “As we continue to make improvements to enhance safety and operations along the I-81 Corridor, please continue to be patient and drive the speed limit within work zones so that everyone can return home to their families every night.”
Work remains on several project features, including landscaping, sign installation and slopes. Lane closures will continue as crews complete those elements.
The project is part of the I-81 Corridor Improvement Program, which is designed to improve safety and reliability, reduce congestion and support economic growth along the interstate. The $4 billion program includes 65 construction projects and operational improvements along 325 miles of I-81 in Virginia.
More information about the program, including interactive maps, videos, podcasts and details about current and upcoming projects, is available at Improve81.org.
-The Salem Times-Register
