VDOT: Updates on I-81 projects
Interstate 81 lane widening construction project exit 137 to exit 141
As of Oct. 9, all three lanes through this section are now open to traffic in both directions. This $179 million design-build project to widen both directions of I-81 between mile markers 136.6 and 141.8 from two to three lanes is almost complete. Work is being performed along a five-mile section of both northbound and southbound Interstate 81 in Roanoke County and the City of Salem. Barrier wall may be in place along the shoulders.
Periodic lane closures scheduled during nighttime hours or outside of peak travel times on northbound and southbound I-81 as needed as the project nears completion. Expected completion in fall 2026.
Ramp closures: Drivers may see ramp closures for the paving of exit 137 and 140 on and off ramps from and onto northbound and southbound I-81 in Salem, 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Watch message boards for updates on times and dates of occurrence and plan ahead.
Milling and paving: Paving operations will require lane closures northbound and southbound during nighttime hours, 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following morning.
Lane closures: Alternating left and right lane and shoulder closures during nighttime hours between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m., Sunday through Thursday, are possible. Lane widths will be reduced to 11 feet. Nightly lane closures may be in place along the right lane with possible nightly ramp narrows as needed for guardrail and shoulder strengthening.
Work zone speed: Drivers should adhere to posted 60 mph speed limits in the work zone and allow space when following a vehicle. Narrow spacing in lanes due to barrier walls, lack of shoulders and lane shifts in various locations are present.
I-81 widening from mile marker 143 to 150
The I-81 widening project is underway. Northbound and southbound lane closures possible during nighttime hours. Various tasks are being performed throughout the project. The expected completion for this project is summer 2031.
Blasting with ramp closures: Blasting work is completed for this year.
Ramp closures and narrowing ramps: Various closures and narrowing of ramps will be in place over the next few weeks. Drivers may need to use alternate exits and watch message boards for the most updated information.
Truck entrances on I-81: Openings for trucks to enter into the work zone for deliveries are possible where barrier walls and signage indicating construction entrance only are present. Watch for trucks that may slow down on the interstate to enter these areas.
Barrier walls: Drivers will continue to see barrier walls with an eight-foot shoulder being put into place throughout the project. Drivers should watch for changes in traffic patterns.
Traffic shift: Southbound traffic is shifted to the right shoulder from exit 150 in Botetourt County to exit 146 in Roanoke County.
Lane closures: Periodic right and left lane closures with shoulder closures in place during nighttime hours 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., on northbound and southbound I-81.
Flagging operations: Flagging operations are possible on various secondary roads impacted by bridge work. Watch for message boards and signage.
Daytime flagging operation on Reservoir Road until Tuesday, Oct. 1.
Daytime flagging operation on Belle Haven Road until Tuesday, Oct. 1.
Ramps: Ramps on I-81, northbound and southbound, may experience periodic closures or be narrowed at exit 150, 146 and 143.
Shoulder closures: Shoulder closures in place with additional barrier wall to be installed next year.
Work zone speed: Drivers should adhere to posted 60 mph speed limits in the work zone and allow space when following a vehicle. Speed reminders are posted for drivers.
‘Pink’ detour signs: While pink detour signs are in place on I-81 and routes around the project such as Route 11 and Plantation Road, these do not designate a permanent or scheduled detour. The signed detour route is suitable for all traffic during incidents including tractor-trailers and other large vehicles. These signs are used for traffic incident detours only.
I-81 Ironto Segment N widening from mile marker 133.8 to exit 137
The I-81 widening project from mile marker 133.8 to exit 137 will begin with work to collect survey and geotechnical data that may require periodic northbound and southbound right and left lane and shoulder closures during nighttime hours. This is the northern portion of a larger project that extends to mile marker 127 at Ironto. It is being performed in three sections with this being the first section and is expected to start in early 2027.
– Virginia Department of Transportation
