VDOT holds hearing for Interstate 81 widening between Exits 128 and 137 in Montgomery and Roanoke Counties

SALEM – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) invites the public to attend a design public hearing for a project to provide additional capacity and improve safety by widening nine miles of Interstate 81 from two lanes to three lanes in both directions between exit 128 in Montgomery County and exit 137 in Roanoke County/Salem.

The hearing will be held on Thursday, November 6, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Glenvar Elementary School located at 4507 Malus Drive in Salem. The hearing will be held in an “open- house” format, and VDOT representatives will be present to answer questions.

The project includes replacing seven pairs of bridges, installing concrete barrier wall in narrow median sections and constructing sound walls in some locations. Ramps will be improved at exit 128 (Ironto), at exit 132 (Dixie Caverns) and at the Ironto Rest Area. This project will involve a change and/or break in limited access.

Comments about the project may be submitted at the hearing or until November 16, 2025, by mailing them to Craig Moore, Project Manager, 731 Harrison Avenue, Salem VA 24153. You may also email your comments to I81IrontotoSalem@vdot.virginia.gov. Please reference “I-81 Exits 128 to 137 Widening Public Comment” in the subject heading

Anyone requiring special assistance to attend and participate in this hearing may contact Craig Moore at 540-387-5353, 800-367-7623, TTY/TDD 711.

This project is a part of the I-81 Corridor Improvement Program that includes 65 capital projects and numerous operational improvements throughout the interstate's 325-mile corridor in Virginia. The $3 billion program was signed into law in spring 2019. More information is available at Improve81.org.