Traffic Alert: Interstate 81 southbound emergency road work in Roanoke County

SALEM – Emergency roadwork on southbound Interstate 81 in Salem and Roanoke County will impact drivers this weekend.

As part of emergency roadwork in Roanoke County, Interstate 81 southbound between exit 141 and 140 will be reduced to one lane from Friday, July 17 at 9 p.m. to Sunday, July 19 at 10 a.m. The southbound 141 on-ramp and the southbound exit 140 off-ramp will also be closed as part of the roadwork. 

An alternate route is available for drivers going southbound by getting off I-81 at exit 141, going left to the roundabout at Route 311, and getting back onto I-81 at exit 140. For drivers who normally use exit 141 on-ramp to get onto southbound I-81, access is available by using exit 140 on-ramp instead. Drivers who typically use the exit 140 off-ramp will need to use the exit 137 or 141 off-ramps.

Expect delays and heavy congestion during these closures and use alternate routes.

For the latest road conditions in Virginia, use VDOT’s 511 free mobile app, visit 511 Virginia and follow the VDOT Salem District on Facebook or X.

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