RoadWatch: March 20 – April 3, 2026

road wrok ahead sign

The following is a list of forecasted highway projects that may impact traffic traveling in the 12-county Salem Transportation District this week. Work schedules and construction project timelines are always subject to change and weather dependent. New information is noted by "NEW" and updates are noted when a current project has had an update added to the listing. The Salem District covers Bedford, Botetourt, Carroll, Craig, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Henry, Montgomery, Patrick, Pulaski and Roanoke.

TRAFFIC ALERTS:

• 511: For the most current traffic and road work information, call 511, download the 511 App or visit 511virginia.org.
• X: You can also follow 511 X feeds for the southwest area of Virginia at @511southwestva or follow @VaDOTSalem.
• FACEBOOK: Join our Facebook community group page at facebook.com/groups/VDOTSalem for traffic and general information on projects in the Salem District area.
• On the 511 website, drivers can also sign up to receive personalized traffic alerts, view traffic cameras or download the free Android or iPhone mobile app.

 

ROAD MAINTENANCE: VDOT performs the following activities as part of routine maintenance on roadways throughout the district. To submit a work order request or road repairs or assistance, contact our customer service center at 800-FOR-ROAD (800-367-7623) or submit online at www.my.vdot.virginia.gov.

• PAVING OPERATIONS – Weather permitting, crews will pave, patch and repair pavement on various routes. Lane closures may be in place and flaggers may control traffic at times during daylight hours, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.  Drivers should watch for signs and expect possible delays.
• SURFACE TREATMENT OPERATIONS – Weather permitting, crews will begin surface treatment operations on various routes. Lane closures may be in place and flaggers may control traffic at times during daylight hours. Drivers should watch for signs and expect possible delays. The road surface may be rough for a several weeks after surface treatment is applied. Once it packs down, the road surface will be brushed and return to a more smooth surface.
• PAVEMENT MARKINGS – Pavement marking operations will be performed district wide, in various counties on secondary routes. These will be mobile operations with lane closures, as they proceed through each county. Motorists should use caution and follow mobile signs for direction.
• DITCHING, GRADING, SLOPE AND SHOULDER REPAIRS – Lane closures may be in place during daylight hours for shoulder repairs. Watch for flaggers controlling traffic.
• PIPE REPLACEMENTS – Crews will be working on various secondary roads to replace pipes under the roadway with periodic lane closures during daylight hours on weekdays. Watch for flaggers controlling traffic.
• DRAINAGE MAINTENANCE – Crews will be working on various secondary roads where drainage issues are present with periodic lane closures during daylight hours on weekdays. Watch for flaggers controlling traffic.
• MOWING, TREE TRIMMING AND BRUSH REMOVAL (VARIOUS ROUTES) – Crews will mow on secondary routes during daylight hours on weekdays. Watch for lane and/or shoulder closures.
• UNPAVED ROAD MAINTENANCE – Crews will be working on various secondary non-hard surface roads grading and replacing stone with periodic lane closures during daylight hours on weekdays. Watch for flaggers controlling traffic.
• GUARDRAIL REPAIRS - Lane closures may be in place for guardrail repairs at various locations. Work will be performed during daytime hours from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

 

PAVING INFORMATION: VDOT now offers coverage of tracking paving progress statewide, which allows community members and stakeholders to view specific locations slated for paving and individual details of each project. Paving season typically extends from April to November and the map is updated weekly to detail exactly where paving projects are planned, ongoing and show how they’re to give residents and travelers a tool to use to best plan for travel and stay safe near these work zones. Drivers can get specific information about the status of paving projects at the Virginia Roads Paving Map or www.virginiaroads.org.

 

INTERSTATE 81

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * INTERSTATE 81 ACCELERATION RAMP EXTENSION AT EXIT 162 IN BOTETOURT COUNTY – This ramp extension project is underway and as part of the project, the on-ramp from Route 11 onto northbound 81 was previously closed but is now back open. This project will extend the on-ramp onto northbound I-81 about 1,000 feet. The project also includes installing drainage structures and constructing a retaining wall alongside the slope. As work progresses, additional ramp and lane closures may be in place during nighttime hours. During construction, barrier wall will be installed along the right shoulder of northbound I-81 at exit 162. Electronic message boards will alert drivers to the upcoming ramp closure and announce any schedule changes. Work is expected to be completed in late 2026. 

• LANE CLOSURES:
  • Weather permitting, alternating northbound and southbound lane closures for drainage improvements will be in place on Route 11 in Buchanan between I-81 and the Exxon station next to the northbound off ramp at exit 162.  All I-81 ramps will remain open.
• Drivers can expect other nighttime right and left lane closures in place on I-81. Drivers use caution in the area of the work zone.

 

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * INTERSTATE 81 BRIDGE WORK AT EXIT 156 IN BOTETOURT COUNTY – Bridge work is underway on northbound and southbound I-81 at Exit 156.  Milling and paving the bridge deck will take place in both directions beginning with the northbound side first and then southbound once northbound is completed.  Drivers can expect lane closures on I-81 during nighttime hours. Slow roll operations are expected periodically and flagging operations will be used during barrier wall placement on Route 640 (Brughs Mill Road). Expected completion is fall 2026.

• SLOW ROLLS: Beginning around the week of April 3, slow roll operations during nighttime hours, 12 a.m. to 5 a.m., on I-81 will be in place for bridge Jacking and blocking. Slow roll operations for northbound will start at Exit 150 and slow roll operations for southbound will start at the Troutville Rest Area at mile marker 158. Flagging operations will be in place on Route 640 under the bridges at Exit 156 will also be in place.
• Temporary traffic barrier in place on westbound side of Route 640 under the I-81 bridges off exit 156 with lanes narrowed to 11 feet.
• Nighttime outside and inside lane closures may be in place on I-81 from mile marker 155 to 157, 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning.

 

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * INTERSTATE 81 ACCELERATION RAMP EXTENSIONS AT MILE MARKER 94 IN PULASKI COUNTY AND 105 IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY- Work is underway on the extension of two acceleration lanes on I-81. The first one will be the entrance ramp onto I-81 southbound at mile marker 94, the entrance ramp onto I-81 southbound. The second one will be the entrance ramp onto I-81 northbound at mile marker 105 in Montgomery County. Scheduled completion date for both projects is summer 2026. During construction, drivers can expect:

• LANE CLOSURES: Nighttime lane closures northbound and southbound from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., the following morning, Sunday through Thursday.
• Shoulder closures throughout the work zone area.
• Slow rolls on I-81 between mile markers 98 and 105 of up to 15 minutes may be in place during nighttime hours.
• Ramp closures are possible.
• Narrowed or shifted ramps during nighttime hours.

 

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * INTERSTATE 81 LANE WIDENING CONSTRUCTION PROJECT EXIT 137 TO EXIT 141 – The $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 underway. 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 is in place along the shoulders. Two lanes of I-81 traffic in each direction are expected to remain open during the project with periodic lane closures scheduled during nighttime hours or outside of peak travel times as needed. Drivers can expect the following lane closures and upcoming traffic impacts in this area on northbound and southbound I-81:

• PAVING: Beginning approximately, Monday, March 30, 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.
• RAMP CLOSURES: Ramp closure of exit 137 and 140 on and off ramps onto southbound I-81 in Salem possible, 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. Watch message boards for updates.
• FLAGGING OPERATIONS: Flagging operations possible on Route 635 and Route 619.
• UNEVEN PAVEMENT: Drivers may experience some uneven pavement and/or rough surface throughout the project.
• TRAFFIC SHIFTS AT I-81 EXIT 140: Drivers may experience periodic lane closures, narrow ramps or quick merges into traffic as well as full stops at the bottom of the ramp onto Thompson Memorial Drive from the southbound or northbound exit ramps of exit 140 off of I-81. Work zone located at bottom of the ramp for work on the I-81 bridge at the underpass.
• TRAFFIC SHIFTS ON WILDWOOD ROAD: Expect a work zone with traffic shifts and narrow width on Wildwood Road after exiting I-81 southbound on exit 137 heading towards Salem. Southbound and northbound I-81 exit 137 and entrance ramp narrows are possible at Route 311.
• 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.

 

The project also includes replacing six bridges, widening two bridges, installing approximately 2.6 miles of sound barrier walls along northbound I-81, improving the southbound exit 137 off-ramp intersection at Wildwood Road and adding interchange lighting at exits 137, 140 and 141. Expected completion in summer 2026. 

 

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * I-81 WIDENING FROM MILE MARKER 143 TO 150 – The I-81 widening project is underway with survey and preparation work. Shoulder strengthening work will require northbound and southbound lane closures during nighttime hours. Barrier wall installation is possible in late fall or early winter. The expected completion for this project is summer 2031.

• PARK AND RIDE AT EXIT 150 IN BOTETOURT COUNTY: Drilling operations with shoulder closures on Route 220 (Roanoke Road) north and southbound. A few parking spaces in the park and ride lot at exit 150 will be barreled off for the drilling operation.
• 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 and shoulder closures in place during nighttime hours 9 p.m. to 6 a.m., on northbound and southbound I-81.
• RAMPS - Ramps on I-81, northbound and southbound, may be narrowed at exit 150. 146 and 143.
• BARRIER WALLS: Drivers will see barrier walls in place throughout the project.
• 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.

(UPDATED 1-9-26) * I-81 NORTHBOUND AT EXIT 105 NEW RIVER BRIDGE REPLACEMENT IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY – Traffic on northbound I-81 has been switched onto the newly constructed bridge over the New River at the Montgomery/Pulaski County line. Lane and shoulder closures may be in place near exit 105. Lane closure may be in effect during the week from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. Shoulder closures may be in effect at any time during the week. 7low rolls may be performed on I-81 in the north and southbound lanes from mile marker 98 to 109. Speed limit is reduced to 60 miles per hour in the work zone. Shoulder closures will remain in place though the duration of the project.

• LANE CLOSURES: Nighttime right and left lane closures may be in place on I-81 northbound or southbound between mile marker 106 and 104 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning.
• ROUTE 605: Alternating lane closures and flagging operations may be present on Route 605, located under the New River Bridge, for paving operations and work overhead on the bridge.
• SLOW ROLLS: Slow rolls may be utilized periodically on both the northbound and southbound lanes from mile marker 98-109 for structural steel deliveries and setting beams.

 

(UPDATED 1-23-26) * I-81 BRIDGE DECK REPAIRS – Weather permitting, crews will repair bridge decks on Interstate 81 between mile markers 170 to 89, right and left lane closures will be in place northbound and southbound during nighttime hours, 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning. Drivers should watch for signs and work zone areas. Delays are possible.

INTERSTATE 581
(UPDATED 3-20-26) * INTERSTATE 581 EXIT 2N AT PETERS CREEK ROAD – Work is underway on this $4 million project to re-align and signalize the exit 2N ramp from northbound I-581 to northbound Peters Creek Road, eliminating the current merge ramp and making it easier for drivers to access Valleypointe Parkway. One lane each direction will remain open during work. During spring and summer 2026, the current exit ramp will be narrowed as construction begins on the new exit ramp. Construction is expected to be completed in late fall 2026.

• LANE CLOSURES: Drivers can expect intermittent lane closures, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., on Peters Creek Road northbound and southbound in the city of Roanoke between Valleypointe Parkway and Thirlane Road NW through mid-March.

(UPDATED 1-9-26) * I-581 PATCHING OPERATIONS – Weather permitting, crews will perform paving and patching operations. Lane closures will be in place northbound and southbound, Sunday through Thursday, during nighttime hours, 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. the following morning. Drivers should watch for signs and expect possible delays.

INTERSTATE 77 (CARROLL COUNTY)

(NEW 3-13-26) * ROUTE 638 CLOSURE FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT – Beginning Wednesday, April 1, Route 638 (Dugspur Road) will be closed for a culvert replacement project over Adams Branch at the intersection of Route 627 and Route 638 (Dugspur Road). A detour will be in place and signage will direct traffic. The road is expected to reopen on May 8, 2026.

 

(NEW 3-6-26) * I-77 CULVERT REHABILITATION PROJECT – A culvert rehabilitation project is underway in two different locations under I-77. Flagging operations and temporary lane and shoulder closures will be in place. Expected completion by the end of 2026.

• Culvert Location 1: Under I-77 at mile marker 23.6 on Route 743 (Pleasant View Road).  Intermittent flagging between the hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Route 743 (Pleasant View Road) may be in place. There are no traffic impacts to I-77 at this location.
• Culvert Location 2: In mid-March, at mile marker 8 on I-77, a second culvert project will take place. There will be some impacts to the ramp shoulder on exit 8 and a lane closure may be in place on Route 148 (Chances Creek Road) for several days.

(UPDATED 1-9-26) * I-77 PAVING & PATCHING OPERATIONS – Weather permitting, crews will perform paving and patching operations on Interstate I-77. Right, left and center lane closures will be in place northbound and southbound, Monday through Friday, during nighttime hours, 7 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following morning. Drivers should watch for signs and expect possible delays.

(UPDATED 2-6-26) * I-77 BRIDGE DECK REPAIRS – Weather permitting, crews will perform paving operations on Interstate 77. Right and left lane closures will be in place northbound and southbound during nighttime hours, 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning. Drivers should watch for signs and expect possible delays.

ROANOKE CITY
(UPDATED 3-20-26) * APPERSON AND ORCHARD DRIVE SAFETY IMPROVEMENT - Weather permitting, starting Monday, March 23, installing a new traffic signal and new turn lanes will begin as part of safety improvements at the intersection of Apperson Drive and Orchard Drive in Salem. Beginning the evening of Monday, March 23, Orchard Drive will be closed for drainage work between Apperson Drive and Tremont Road for three nights from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. A detour will be in place during this time, and the road is scheduled to be reopened by 7 a.m. on Thursday, March 26. In addition, beginning Monday, March 23 through May 15, traffic will be shifted on eastbound Apperson Drive (Route 11) going towards Route 419 (Electric Road) in Salem. Apperson Drive will remain open during the entirety of the project. Electronic message boards and signs will be in place to alert drivers to the upcoming changes in traffic pattern. Message boards will be updated with the most current schedule. Estimated completion is late fall 2026.

ROANOKE COUNTY
(NEW 3-13-26) * ROUTE 777 (FORT LEWIS CHURCH ROAD) TO CLOSE FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT - Weather permitting, starting on Saturday, March 21, the bridge over Stypes Branch on Route 777 (Fort Lewis Church Road) will be closed for approximately eight days for a bridge replacement over Stypes Branch. The bridge is located .28 mile south of Route 793 (Artrip Lane) and .2 mile north of Route 828 (Tobey Road). The bridge work will also require the closure of Tobey Road at the intersection of Fort Lewis Church Road for temporary crane placement and materials storage so an alternate route to Glenvar High School, using West Main Street, is recommended. 

From March 21-28, vehicles will not be able to cross the bridge. Residents in the homes affected can park at Glenvar High School and a shuttle bus will pick them up. There will be a pedestrian bridge placed over Stypes Branch to Stypes Branch Road which will remain open during construction. After crossing the pedestrian bridge, a shuttle bus will then take people to their homes. 

The shuttles will start running when the road closes Saturday, March 21 at 7 a.m. The buses will run 24 hours a day while the bridge is closed. Residents will call 540-330-5472 to ask for a pickup from the ADA-accessible shuttle buses on each side of the closure. Cars can be parked at Glenvar High School starting at 4 p.m. on Friday, March 20. A shuttle will run from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Friday to return residents to their homes. Call the shuttle phone number at (540) 330-5472 when you have parked your car at Glenvar High School to be picked up by the shuttle.

Electronic message boards will be in place to alert motorists to the upcoming temporary closure and schedule. People can also call the shuttle bus number to receive construction updates on the bridge replacement progress, and when the bridge will open.

(NEW 3-20-26) * ROUTE 737 (GLADDEN ROAD) CLOSED FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT - On Monday, April 13, 2026, beginning at 7:30 a.m., a portion of Route 737 (Gladden Road) will be closed to traffic .40 mile north of the dead end to .40 mile south of Route 639 (Harborwood Road)to perform a bridge deck replacement over a tributary of the Roanoke River. Intermittent lane closures with flagging will follow once the deck replacement occurs. Electronic message boards will be in place to alert drivers. Traffic will not be able to cross the bridge but parking will be allowed on the other side of the bridge along the shoulder. Work is scheduled for completion on Friday, April 17, 2026, if not earlier, weather permitting.

 

(NEW 3-6-26) * ROUTE 221 (BENT MOUNTAIN ROAD) UTILITY WORK – Drivers should expect daytime flagging along Route 221 (Bent Mountain Road) between Poage Valley Road and Crystal Creek Drive for utility installation through May 2026. Delays are possible.

(NEW 3-6-26) * PETERS CREEK ROAD SIGNAL INSTALLATION – Drivers should expect lane closures along northbound and southbound Peters Creek Road during daytime hours for a signal pole installation and intersection improvements between Dwight Street and South Drive through March 2026.

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * ROANOKE RIVER GREENWAY PROJECT – Work is underway with grading for new Greenway and concrete for the sidewalk. There are currently no lane closures at this time. Drivers should watch for large dump trucks entering and exiting work areas on Route 419 and Route 11. Flagging operations are possible on Route 419 for asphalt trucks. Expected completion is summer 2026.

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * ORANGE MARKET PARK AND RIDE LOT TO CLOSE FOR IMPROVEMENTS – A project to improve two parking lots at Orange Market and the roundabout on Route 311/Route 419 in Roanoke County has been underway. During this time, drivers will need to seek alternate parking options. This project includes paving and striping both parking lots including an area for the McAfee Knob shuttle stop.

The Orange Market Park and Ride Lot, located between Kessler Mill Road and the entrance to Orange Market is set to open later this month. Starting Monday, March 30, the smaller Hanging Rock Battlefield Trail at Orange Market Lot, located at the entrance to Orange Market and closer to Route 419, will close for construction for the duration of the project with expected completion in summer 2026.

Commuters are encouraged to seek alternative parking options during these closures and should not leave parked vehicles on the lot as towing will be enforced. Drivers can use the existing Orange Market Alternate Parking Lot across the street and accessible off of Route 311 (Thompson Memorial Drive) across from the park and ride lot or may seek alternate park and ride locations such as the I-81 Exit 140 Park and Ride. For more information on park and ride locations, visit http://www.virginiadot.org/travel/parkride/home.asp.

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * ROUTE 11 PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS – This project has just started on Route 11 (Williamson Road) to add pedestrian safety improvements. A southbound lane closure will be in place on Route 11 (Williamson Road) until sidewalk is completed in May 2026. Message boards will alert drivers to traffic impacts.

• LANE CLOSURE: Weather permitting, a lane closure may be in place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., on Plymouth Drive at the intersection with Williamson Road as part of this project. Drivers will be able to access Plymouth Drive from alternate routes.

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * ROUTE 220/ROUTE 419 DIVERGING DIAMOND INTERCHANGE - The Route 220/Route 419 interchange project is underway. It will be reconfigured with a diverging diamond concept and multiple intersections on both Route 220 and Route 419 will be modified to enhance signal timing and reduce congestion. The intersections that include Route 220 are at Valley Avenue/Southern Hills Drive, Crossbow Circle/Pheasant Ridge Road, Buck Mountain Road/Stable Road and Indian Grave Road/Clearbrook Village Lane. The intersections on Route 419 are at Ogden Road, Elm View Road and South Peak Boulevard. With multiple activities scheduled, completion at different locations will take place throughout the life of the project. Daytime, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., and nighttime, 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., work hours will occur depending on location. Drivers should expect alternating lane closures, turn lane closures and shoulder closures. Expected completion is fall 2028.

(UPDATED 2-27-26) * ROUTE 220 AT CROSSBOW CIRCLE & PHEASANT RIDGE ROAD INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS – Construction activities for this project are underway starting with removing the existing curb along the outer perimeters followed by removal of concrete medians. Drivers should use caution in the area and watch for work zones and message boards providing updated information. Signal pole installations during nighttime hours.

• NEW TRAFFIC PATTERN in place. Instead of driving straight across Route 220, Crossbow Circle/Pheasant Ridge, drivers turn left or right to make U-turn.  
  
  

(UPDATED 2-27-26) * ROUTE 220 AT SOUTHERN HILLS & VALLEY AVENUE INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS – Construction activities for this project are underway starting with lane closures during nighttime hours from 7 p.m. until 6 a.m. the next morning, Sunday night through Friday morning. Shoulder closures possible during daytime hours. Signal pole installations during nighttime hours.

• NEW TRAFFIC PATTERN with signal is in place at Route 220 and Southern Hills Drive/Valley Avenue. Instead of driving straight across Route 220, Southern Hills Drive/Valley Avenue14 drivers now turn left or right to make U-turn.

 

BEDFORD COUNTY

(NEW 3-13-26) * ROUTE 657 (ROCKY MOUNTAIN ROAD) CLOSURE FOR BRIDGE WORK - Effective Monday, March 23, 2026, a section of Route 657 (Rocky Mountain Road) will be closed for a bridge maintenance project. The structure is located 3.40 miles south of Route 652 (Walker Road) and 0.60 miles north of Route 644 (Coffee Road). Work is scheduled for completion by approximately the Friday, March 27, 2026.

 

(UPDATED 2-27-26) * ROUTE 666 BRIDGE CLOSED OVER ELK CREEK – The bridge repairs on the Elkton Farm Road Truss Bridge on Route 666 (Elkton Farm Road) over Elk Creek are underway. The bridge is located 1.8 miles east of Route 622 to l.60 mile west of Route 221. The road is closed and will remain closed with a detour in place until May 2026, weather permitting. Estimated completion of repairs is summer 2026.

 

(UPDATED 2-27-26) *ROUTE 460 AND ROUTE 697 IMPROVEMENTS – Work is underway to improve Route 460 at Route 697 (Camp Jaycee Road). This project will construct median turn lanes for U-turns and close three existing crossovers and modify one existing crossover. Drivers can expect inside and outside lane closures on eastbound and westbound Route 460. The Woodhaven Nursing Facility entrance has been closed and a secondary entrance has been opened which has been marked with proper signage. Work is expected to be completed in summer 2026.

• LANE CLOSURE: Installation of stormwater pipe is underway in the median across from the Woodhaven Nursing Home. Drivers can expect left lane closures on Route 460 eastbound and westbound. Delays are possible.

 

(UPDATED 1-16-26) *ROUTE 460 INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS - Intersection improvements on Route 460 are underway from 0.063 miles west of Route 668 (Blackwater Road) to 0.488 miles east of Route 668 (Blackwater Road). Drivers should expect flagging operations to be in place as needed during construction. Expected completion is November 2026.

BOTETOURT COUNTY

(NEW 3-20-26) *SECTION OF ROUTE 655 (OLD FINCASTLE ROAD) TO CLOSE DAILY FOR CULVERT PIPE REPLACEMENT - Weather permitting, starting Monday, March 30, a section of Old Fincastle Road will be closed daily, Monday through Friday, for approximately two weeks between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. for a culvert pipe replacement. The section of Old Fincastle Road is located between Peck Lane and West Wind Road just south of 1445 Old Fincastle Road and will be closed to through traffic. Residents will have access to their homes on either side of the closure. For morning commutes requiring access to Route 220 (Botetourt Road), drivers can detour around the closure using Old Fincastle Road to West Wind Road, then taking Mary Alice Road to Route 220. The closure will be reopened to traffic Monday through Friday at 5 p.m., and during weekends. Work is expected to be completed by Friday, April 10, weather permitting.

 

(NEW 3-13-26) *ROUTE 460 AND LAYMANTOWN ROAD INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS – This intersection improvement project will add a right turn lane on westbound Route 460 for drivers turning onto Laymantown Road and is currently underway. Drivers should pay attention to signs and traffic control devices and use caution in the work zone. The project is expected to be completed in summer 2026.

• LANE CLOSURES: Drivers who use Route 460 (Orange Avenue) and Route 658 (Laymantown Road) in Botetourt County should expect possible lane closures on Route 460 from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. and on Laymantown Road from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 7 a.m.
• ROAD CLOSURE WITH DETOUR: Laymantown Road will be closed with a detour in place at this location no sooner than May 21, 2026.

 

(UPDATED 2-27-26) * ROUTE 43 UTILITY WORK – Drivers can expect a flagging operation to be in place on Route 43 between Springwood Road and Main Street for utility work through March 2026.

 

(UPDATED 2-27-26) * ROUTE 11 LANE SHIFT AND CLOSURE - Drivers should expect several impacts to Route 11 for various projects that are underway.

• Route 11 northbound will have an outside lane closure between Route 772 and the I-81 ramp through March 2026 for fiber installation.

 

(UPDATED 2-13-26) * CRAIG BOTETOURT SCENIC TRAIL BRUSH CUTTING AND STABILIZATION WORK - Residents along the former Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Craig Valley Branch railbed in Botetourt and Craig counties may notice maintenance work continuing on the old railbed. These activities are intended to prevent additional deterioration and to help designers who are developing plans for the Craig Botetourt Scenic Trail. VDOT continues to collect data and conduct site visits and field reviews on the railbed. The design plans for Craig Botetourt Scenic Trail are still being refined and a specific schedule for construction has yet to be determined.

 

CARROLL COUNTY

(NEW 3-20-26) *ROUTE 638 (DUGSPUR ROAD) CLOSED FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT - On Wednesday, April 1, 2026, a portion of Route 638 (Dugspur Road) will be closed to traffic at the intersection of Route 627 (Adams Branch Road) and Route 638 (Dugspur Road) to perform a box culvert installation over Adams Branch. Electronic message boards will be in place to alert drivers and a signed detour will be in place around the closure from Route 638 (Dugspur Road) onto Route 664 (Silver Leaf Road) onto Route 662 (Poplar Hill Road) onto Route 624 (Nester School Road) to return to Route 638 (Dugspur Road). While residents will have access to their homes on either side of the closure, through traffic will need to seek alternate routes or use the signed detour. This detour does not allow enough width for tractor trailer use. Traffic of any kind will not be able to cross the bridge. Work is scheduled for completion on May 8, 2026, weather permitting.

CRAIG COUNTY

(UPDATED 3-20-26) *ROUTE 743 AND ROUTE 148 IMPACTED FOR I-77 CULVERT REHABILITATION PROJECT – A culvert rehabilitation project is underway in two different locations under I-77. Flagging operations and temporary lane and shoulder closures will be in place. Expected completion by the end of 2026.

• Culvert Location 1: Under I-77 at mile marker 23.6 on Route 743 (Pleasant View Road).  Intermittent flagging between the hours of 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Route 743 (Pleasant View Road) may be in place. There are no traffic impacts to I-77 at this location.
• Culvert Location 2: Work is underway at mile marker 8 on I-77, a second culvert project will take place. There will be some impacts to the ramp shoulder on exit 8 and a lane closure may be in place on Route 148 (Chances Creek Road) for several days.

 

(UPDATED 2-13-26) * CRAIG BOTETOURT SCENIC TRAIL BRUSH CUTTING AND STABILIZATIO WORK - Residents along the former Chesapeake and Ohio (C&O) Craig Valley Branch railbed in Botetourt and Craig counties may notice maintenance work continuing on the old railbed. These activities are intended to prevent additional deterioration and to help designers who are developing plans for the Craig Botetourt Scenic Trail. VDOT continues to collect data and conduct site visits and field reviews on the railbed. The design plans for Craig Botetourt Scenic Trail are still being refined and a specific schedule for construction has yet to be determined.

 

FLOYD COUNTY

(NEW 3-20-26) * ROUTE 730 (DUNCANS CHAPEL ROAD) CLOSED FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT - On Monday, April 6, 2026, a portion of Route 730 (Duncans Chapel Road) will be closed to traffic at its intersection with Route 766 (Easy Drive) to perform a box culvert replacement over Big Indian Creek. Drivers will be able to turn left at this intersection to travel westbound but there will be no access to travel eastbound. Electronic message boards will be in place to alert drivers and a signed detour will be posted around the closure. While residents will have access to their homes on either side of the closure, through traffic will need to seek alternate routes or use the signed detour. Traffic will not be able to cross the bridge. Work is scheduled for completion on May 8, 2026, weather permitting.

 

FRANKLIN COUNTY

(UPDATED 3-13-26) * ROUTE 705 CLOSURE FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT - A section of Route 705 (Chestnut Hill Road) is closed for a bridge replacement. The structure is located 0.30 mile south of Route 714 (Washboard Road) and 1.30 miles north of Route 954 (Ball Park Drive). Drivers will need to seek alternate routes around the closure. Work is scheduled for completion November 2026.

 

GILES COUNTY

(NEW 3-13-26) * ROUTE 770 CLOSURE FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT – Beginning March 30, 2026 at 8 a.m., Route 770 (Steeles Acre Road) in the Newport area will be closed to install a new timber deck bridge over Sinking Creek. The bridge is located 0.25 miles from Route 42 and .51 miles from the dead end. The bridge is scheduled to reopen in the afternoon of April 1, 2026. Drivers should plan accordingly.

 

(UPDATED 3-13-26) * ROUTE 778 BRIDGE REPLACEMENT OVER SINKING CREEK - Work is underway on Route 778 (Apache Road) to replace the bridge over Sinking Creek. The bridge is located off of Route 460 westbound across from the intersection with Route 730 (Eggleston Road). The road will be closed with a detour in place. Message boards will alert drivers of detour. Completion is expected summer 2026.

• DETOUR: Detour is in place. Drivers should watch for message boards.

 

HENRY COUNTY

(NEW 3-20-26) * RACE FANS! NASCAR WEEKEND AT MARTINSVILLE SPEEDWAY MARCH 27-29 - With a weekend full of racing, drivers should expect an increased volume of traffic in the vicinity of Martinsville Speedway on Friday, March 27, Saturday, March 28 and Sunday, March 29. 

 

For the NASCAR race being held on Sunday, March 29, the Virginia Department of Transportation encourages race fans driving to and from Martinsville Speedway to follow the recommended traffic patterns listed below and as posted on signs and message boards.

 

VDOT will place many signs and changeable message boards throughout the region to assist travelers. Vehicular and pedestrian traffic will be heavy. Traffic is being routed to the speedway in certain patterns to minimize overall congestion as much as possible. Watch for the speed limit to reduce gradually from 65 mph to 35 mph on the Route 220/Route 58 Bypass as you approach the speedway. 

•   From Roanoke and areas north of Martinsville: Race fans traveling south on Route 220 should continue on the Route 220/Route 58 Bypass past the speedway interchange and turn right onto the access road that leads into the speedway.  The entrance is located one mile east of the Route 220 interchange and may provide easier access. Signs are in place designating the entrance to the speedway.   
•   From Danville and areas east of Martinsville: Motorists on the Route 58 Bypass should follow signs directing them to use the track’s back gate. This entrance is located off the bypass, east of the track.
•   From Greensboro and areas south of Martinsville: Motorists should watch for electronic message boards and obey police directing traffic to use the right lane.
•   From Stuart and areas west of Martinsville: Motorists should stay on Route 58 east and follow signs and message boards to the track.

Those attending the race should plan to arrive early, closely follow directional information and expect heavy traffic and delays throughout the area.

 

(NEW 3-13-26) * ROUTE 712 CLOSED TO THROUGH TRAFFIC - On Monday, March 23, 2026, a portion of Route 712 (Mary Hunter Drive) will be closed to traffic from Route 1264 (Mary Hunter Elementary School Road) to Route 57-A (Riverside Drive) to perform grading on embankments. Work will take place Monday through Friday each week from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. with the road closing each morning and reopening each afternoon.  The road will remain open on weekends. During this time, directional signs will be in place to assist the traveling public.

Weather permitting, this closure is scheduled for completion by Friday, April 3, 2026. 

 

(UPDATED 3-6-26) * ROUTE 220 AND DYER STREET – Intersection improvements are underway at Route 220 and Dyer Street. Drivers can expect daytime and nighttime lane and shoulder closures as well as alternating lane and turn lane closures in the area. Motorists should watch message boards for traffic pattern shifts and closures.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * ROUTE 460 BUSINESS PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENT PROJECT – Work is underway on a pedestrian improvement project for Route 460 Business between the intersection of Route 460 and Laurel Street (Entrance to Walmart) and to the intersection with Spradlin Farm Drive. Drivers can expect lane closures in the eastbound and westbound lanes from 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning. Closures of turn lanes onto 460 Business from each side of the intersection with Laurel Street may also be in place. Message boards will alert traffic. Expected completion is Summer 2026.

• LANE CLOSURES: Lane closures may be in place in the following locations during allowable work hours listed above:
  • Nighttime lane closures including left hand turn lanes may be in place on the eastbound side of North Franklin, 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning. These closures will also involve restricting turn lane access from Pepper’s Ferry Road through the signaled intersection.
  • Eastbound left lane closures from the intersection with Pepper’s Ferry to just past the intersection with Laurel Street.
  • Westbound lane closure from Farm View Road to just past the intersection with Laurel Street. Inside turn lane may be closed from westbound Route 460.

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * ROUTE 8 PARK AND RIDE PROJECT – Work is underway to build a park and ride lot on Route 8 near the entrance/exit to I-81 at mile marker 114.  This project will include a parking structure, bus shelter, as well as road and pedestrian improvements for adjoining streets. Traffic impacts will include alternating lane closures on Route 8 between Mud Pike Road and the entrance/exit ramps for I-81 at MM 114 and shoulder and single lane closures with flagging operations on Route 666 (Mud Pike Road) at the intersection with Moose Drive and between the intersections of Mud Pike Road and College Street except during peak hours, Monday through Friday. Expected completion is winter 2027.

• PAVEMENT MARKING: Temporary lane closures and/or shifts may be in place on Route 8 for pavement marking operations.
• TRAFFIC SHIFT: Traffic shifts may be in place on Route 666 (Mud Pike Road). Drivers should use caution.
• PAVING: Alternating single lane closures along Route 8 is possible for paving, weather permitting.
• SIGNAL INSTALLATIONS: Temporary lane closures maintained by flagging operations possible on Moose Drive, Pike Road and Route 8 for signal pole installations.
• LANE CLOSURES: Temporary lane closures possible in the following locations:
  • Eastbound lane and turn lane on Mud Pike Road may be closed.
  • Northbound right turn lane at traffic light on Route 8 may be closed.
  • Right turn lane at traffic light on Moose Drive onto Route 8 may be closed.
  • Right turn lane from Route 8 into service station may be closed.

 

PATRICK COUNTY

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * ROUTE 58 LOVER’S LEAP PROJECT – Construction is underway on Lover’s Leap area of Route 58. Current work includes clearing and grading activities on the west and east portions of the project. A 45-mph speed reduction is in place on Route 58 for the entire length of the project. Drivers should expect flagging operations during day and nighttime hours. Message boards are in place to alert traffic and drivers should expect delays. Estimated completion date is Summer 2026.

• NEW TRAFFIC PATTERN - Drivers can expect traffic pattern changes as part of the ongoing road-widening project on Route 58 over Lovers Leap Mountain in Patrick County. Route 58 traffic will be shifted onto a new section of roadway starting 1.7 miles east of Route 610 (Cloudbreak Road) to 1.5 miles west of Route 640 (Central Academy Road). Traffic will remain on this new section of road for approximately 1.5 miles before transitioning back onto existing Route 58. Drivers should also expect flaggers controlling a 0.5-mile section of this new road for approximately two weeks. Motorists should pay attention to signs and electronic message boards that will be posted to alert drivers to the changes.
• OUTLOOK ACCESS: Access to Fred Clifton Park and the Lovers Leap Overlook will remain on Poor Farmers Farm Road.
• TRUCK ESCAPE RAMP CLOSURE: The escape ramp located 2.9 miles east of the Lovers Leap Overlook/Fred Clifton Park and 1.1 miles east of Dehart Botanical Gardens has been permanently closed. Please be aware of brake check points along Route 58 and check your brakes frequently. A brake check point is located 0.6 miles east of Route 610 (Cloudbreak Road) near Poor Farmer’s Farm. All trucks MUST check their brakes prior to traveling down the mountain.
• BLASTING NOTICE: Blasting operations are underway on the project. Intermittent blasting will be scheduled between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekdays and continue at various locations on the project. For blasting that is close to Route 58, traffic in both directions may be blocked for approximately 15-20 minutes at a time. Drive and residents along the Route 58 corridor should expect loud noises and allow extra travel time. Electronic message boards will be used to inform drivers of scheduled blasting that will impact traffic.
• DETOUR SIGNS: While detour signs in a fluorescent pink color are in place, 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 incident detours only.

 

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * ROUTE 58 VESTA PROJECT – The Route 58 Vesta project is underway near the Route 58 Business eastern intersection in Meadows of Dan and ends about 0.5 mile east of Route 610 (Cloudbreak Road). In addition to widening Route 58 from two lanes to four lanes, the project includes replacing the existing bridge over the Dan River with two new bridges. The Vesta project adjoins the Lovers Leap widening project that is currently under construction. This spring, drivers may see activity in the area as soil samples and gathering other data needed to finalize the road design takes place. Residents may notice temporary access roads and brush cutting.

• BRIDGE WORK OVER DAN RIVER: Bridge work is underway on the bridge over the Dan River on Route 58, Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. Flagging operations expected as work progresses.

PULASKI COUNTY

(UPDATED 3-20-26) * ROUTE 11 SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS AT WARDEN COURT – Work is underway to improve roadway elevation through the curve on Route 11 at Warden Court between the intersections of Route 11 and Camelot Farm Road and the Northern Entrance to Warden Court.  Drivers can expect southbound lane and shoulder closures with barrier wall and alternating north and southbound lane closures. 11-foot lanes will be maintained in both directions. Expected to be completed October 2026.