VDOT Roadwatch Dec. 21-Jan. 8

(UPDATED 12-18-20) * INTERSTATE 81 SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS AT S-CURVES IN BOTETOURT COUNTY – A project to improve the S-curves along southbound I-81 in Botetourt County between mile markers 167.4 and 169.5 is underway. This project will enhance safety and improve vehicle traction. Work includes repaving the travel lanes, applying new pavement markers and installing underground pavement drains. Nighttime lane closures will be in place and the speed limit will be reduced to 60 mph in the work zone. This project also includes permanently closing and removing the southbound off ramp at exit 167 (Buchanan) to reduce speed differentials, conflict points and lane changes associated with exiting vehicles. Exit 167 closed permanently on October 1. The estimated completion date is summer 2021. 

·       There will be alternating lane closures on I-81 northbound near mile marker 168 Monday  night to Wednesday morning, between the hours of 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., weather permitting.

(UPDATED 12-31-20) * ROUTE 220 SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS IN EAGLE ROCK – The project is underway. Flagging operations will be in place on Route 220, north and southbound lanes between Eagle Rock and Iron Gate, 7 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., seven days per week. 24-hour flagging operations may be in place periodically. Speed limit is reduced to 45 mph throughout the project.  and 35 miles per hour just south of Route 622 (Prices Bluff Road) and just north of Route 722 (Chatham Road). No wide loads are permitted through the area. Drivers are cautioned to slow down and pay close attention through the work zone due to curves and minimal site distance. Drivers should watch for signs. Work is estimated to be completed fall 2021.

·       FLAGGING OPERATIONS:

o   A 24-hour one lane flagger operation will be in place periodically from Route 43 (Narrow Passage Road) to Route 694 (Gala Loop South) until further notice.

o   A 24-hour one lane flagger operation will be in installed the first week of January from Route 622N (Gala Loop) to Route 696 (Buhrman Road).

o   A 24-hour one lane flagger operation will be installed January 4 through January 8, from Route 694N (Gala Loop) to Route 722 (Chatman Road).    

Not a VDOT projrct but Broadband updates and construction will be along Catawba Rd and Blacksburg Rd Intersection working towards Etzler Intersection==Editor

–Submitted by Jen K. Ward, VDOT Communications Coordinator, Salem District