Construction Starts on I-81 Widening Project in Harrisonburg and Rockingham County

STAUNTON – The Interstate 81 widening project in the City of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County is scheduled to begin overnight construction activities as early as Monday evening, April 20.

Motorists can anticipate 24/7 shoulder closures and overnight single-lane closures on I-81 in both directions from approximately one mile south of exit 243 (Route 11/Pleasant Valley Road) to mile marker 244 (near Rocktown High School) from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. These overnight lane closures are for right-shoulder strengthening.

All roadway lanes will remain open during peak travel times, and construction-related lane closures will also be limited during significant holidays and major events to help reduce impacts on travelers.

VDOT urges motorists to be alert for shoulder and lane closures and construction equipment entering and exiting the work zone. All work is weather permitting, and schedules are subject to change.

The 81 Widening Harrisonburg Project is anticipated to be completed in summer 2032. This project is designed to enhance safety, improve traffic operations and increase reliability along this corridor by adding a third travel lane in each direction. For updates and to sign up for project newsletters, visit vdot.virginia.gov/81Harrisonburg.

The Harrisonburg-area widening is being constructed under a $219 million contract as part of the I-81 Corridor Improvement Program (CIP). Other major I-81 CIP projects in the VDOT Staunton District include:

• Staunton-area widening (scheduled for completion in summer 2027)
• Weyers Cave truck-climbing lanes (scheduled for completion in late 2027)
• Strasburg-area widening (scheduled for completion in fall 2028)
• Winchester-area widening (construction starts in 2028)

The nearly $4 billion CIP includes 65 construction projects plus operational improvements along I-81 in Virginia to enhance safety, reduce congestion and unlock the region for further economic growth. Find out more at Improve81.org. The website includes interactive maps, videos and podcasts, and details about upcoming and current projects.

The VDOT Customer Service Center operates 24/7 to help roadway users report potential hazards, make service requests or get information related to Virginia’s transportation network. Use its mobile friendly website or call 800-367-7623.

Find the VDOT Staunton District on Facebook and X and follow VDOT statewide social media accounts. News releases, travel tips and project updates are on the VDOT website.

The VDOT Staunton District serves Frederick, Shenandoah, Clarke, Warren, Page, Rockingham, Augusta, Highland, Rockbridge, Alleghany and Bath counties.

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