STAUNTON, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Traffic using the interchange ramp from southbound Interstate 81 to eastbound I-64 at exit 221 near Staunton will be limited to a single lane for three to four months beginning Monday, March 10. The left or right lane will be closed 24/7 during that time period due to bridge work. All work is weather permitting.

Starting March 10, contractors will be widening the I-81 southbound bridge over the ramp to I-64. The work requires partial demolition followed by construction of new abutments and piers. A total of five bridges are being widened in order to accommodate a third northbound and southbound lane on I-81 between exit 221 (I-64 interchange) and exit 225 (Route 262 north). The Staunton-area widening is part of the Interstate 81 Corridor Improvement Program (CIP).

The Commonwealth Transportation Board (CTB) in March 2023 awarded a $101 million design-build contract to Kokosing Construction Company Inc. of Westerville, Ohio. Completion is scheduled for summer 2027. Additional information about the I-81 Staunton-area widening is on the VDOT project page.

The $3 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.