ROADWATCH: May 1-8, 2026

7 hours ago June Hunt

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                            May 1, 2026

CONTACT:          Jen K. Ward, 540-387-5238                                           SALEM 97

[email protected]

                                        

ROADWATCH: May 1-8, 2026

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 ALERT INFORMATION:

  • 511: For the most current traffic and road work information, call 511, download the 511 App or visit 511.VDOT.Virginia.gov.
  • X: You can also follow us @VaDOTSalem or 511 X feeds for the southwest area of Virginia at @511southwestva.
  • FACEBOOK: Join our Facebook community group page at www.facebook.com/groups/VDOTSalem for traffic impacts 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 511 mobile app for Android or iPhone.

GENERAL ROAD AND BRIDGE 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.
  • BRIDGE INSPECTIONS – Contractors perform bridge inspections on various bridges throughout the district. Most inspections involve a bucket truck under a bridge and are performed during the hours 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., outside of peak travel hours. Drivers may see lane or shoulder closures and flagging operations during the inspection.
  • 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 5-1-26) * 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.

o   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 5-1-26) * 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 5-1-26) * 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 5-1-26) * 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:

  • RAMP CLOSURES TO INCREASE: Drivers will see an increase in ramp closures for paving of exit 137 and 140 on and off ramps from and onto southbound I-81 in Salem, 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. or 12 a.m. to 5 a.m., depending on work being performed. Watch message boards for updates on times and dates of occurrence and plan ahead.
  • TRAFFIC SHIFTS AT I-81 EXIT 140: Drivers may experience traffic pattern changes, 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. Periodic work zones located at bottom of the ramp for work on the I-81 bridge at the underpass is also possible.
  • MILLING AND PAVING: Paving operations will require lane closures northbound and southbound during nighttime hours, 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following morning.
    • Milling operations are being performed on Route 311, Route 635 and Route 619 as well as on I-81. Flagging operations on Route 635 under the bridge is possible. Paving and marking operations will follow. Expect delays and plan ahead.
  • UNEVEN ROUGH PAVEMENT: Drivers may experience some uneven pavement and/or rough surface throughout the project.
  • 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.
  • 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 5-1-26) * 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.

  • SOUTHBOUND EXIT 143 RAMP ONTO I-581: The southbound I-81 exit 143 ramp merging traffic onto I-581 towards Roanoke is reduced to one lane. Drivers should stay alert for traffic pattern changes and additional barrier wall to be installed in the vicinity.
  • BARRIER WALLS: Drivers will continue to see barrier walls with an eight-foot shoulder being put into place throughout the project. Drivers should watch for changes in traffic patterns.
  • 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.
  • 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 4-10-26) * I-81 NORTHBOUND AT EXIT 105 NEW RIVER BRIDGE REPLACEMENT IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY – Work on this project continues with the initial work beginning behind the barrier wall. Then, beginning in May and through September, the barrier wall will be moved, and the existing lanes will be narrowed. In the fall of 2026, I-81 traffic will be shifted into a new pattern at the bridge. Two lanes of traffic will continue to be open in the work zone, but motorists will be traveling on a different portion of roadway on the right side of the bridge. Throughout construction, two lanes of northbound I-81 will remain open during daytime hours with nighttime closures possible during the hours of 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Slow 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. The project is expected to be complete and the bridge in its final configuration with two lanes of Interstate 81 and the right deceleration lane/exit ramp by the end of 2026.

  • LANE CLOSURES: Nighttime right and left lane closures may be in place on I-81 northbound or southbound between mile marker 98 and 109 from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. the following morning.
  • 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.
  • SPEED LIMIT: The speed limit is reduced to 60 miles per hour in the work zone.

(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 4-24-26) * 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 may see intermittent lane closures in place, 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.

(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)

(UPDATED 4-24-26) * 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.

(UPDATED 4-10-26) * 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: At mile marker 8 on I-77, a second culvert project is underway. 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 4-24-26) * APPERSON AND ORCHARD DRIVE SAFETY IMPROVEMENT – The installation of a new traffic signal and new turn lanes is underway as part of safety improvements at the intersection of Apperson Drive and Orchard Drive in Salem. Traffic shifts and lane closures may be in place 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 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 5-1-26) * DRY HOLLOW ROAD SIGNAL INSTALLATION – Beginning May 4, 2026, a project to install a signal on Dry Hollow Road in Roanoke County will begin. Periodic flagging operations may be used during daytime hours and delays are  possible. The signal work is expected to be completed the first part of June 2026 and is the first part of an upcoming safety improvement project that will reinforce the retaining wall and install a roadside barrier . It is expected to begin this summer.

(UPDATED 4-17-26) * 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.

(UPDATED 4-24-26) * ROANOKE RIVER GREENWAY PROJECT – Work is nearing completion on this project. 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 still possible on Route 419 for asphalt trucks. Expected completion is summer 2026.

(UPDATED 4-24-26) * 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 has reopened. As of 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, is now closed 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 4-24-26) * 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

(UPDATED 3-24-26) * ROUTE 666 BRIDGE CLOSED OVER ELK CREEK – The bridge repairs on the Elkton Farm Road Truss Bridge onRoute 666 (Elkton Farm Road) over Elk Creek are underway. The bridge is located 1.8 miles east of Route 622 to l.60 miles west of Route 221. The road is closed and will remain closed with a detour in place through the duration of the project. 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 4-24-26) *ROUTE 460 INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS – Intersection improvements on Route 460 are underway in the vicinity of Route 668 (Blackwater Road). Beginning on Monday, April 27, a new traffic pattern will be in place with a left lane closure and barrier wall on eastbound Route 460 and a left shoulder closure with barrier wall on westbound Route 460). This pattern will continue through the duration of the project. Message boards are posted. Expected completion is November 2026.

BOTETOURT COUNTY

(NEW 5-1-26) * ROUTE 653 (KENZIE ROAD) BRIDGE REPLACEMENT – Beginning on Monday, May 18, Route 653 (Kenzie Road) will be closed for a bridge replacement over Buffalo Creek near the dead end of the road. Traffic will not be able to cross the bridge and residents will need to use the alternate route for access. The road is expected to reopen on Friday, May 22.

(UPDATED 5-1-26) *ROUTE 220 SHOULDER WORK IN EAGLE ROCK – Route 220 northbound will have a lane closure with flaggers in place between Gala Loop and Prices Bluff Road to perform shoulder stonework for loading and unloading trucks through May 2026.

(UPDATED 4-24-26) * OVERSIZED LOADS SCHEDULED TO TRAVEL THROUGH BOTETOURT COUNTY ON ROUTE 220 BEGINNING NEXT MONDAY – As part of the Rocky Forge Wind Farm project in Eagle Rock, oversized loads will be traveling northbound and southbound along the Route 220 corridor. Beginning Monday, April 6 through the end of May, drivers can expect daily oversized loads to be travelling on two different routes between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday through Friday:

  • Northbound Interstate 81 to exit 150 and onto northbound Route 220 in Daleville to Eagle Rock
  • Northbound I-81 to I-64 onto southbound Route 220 through Iron Gate to Eagle Rock

In addition, Route 622 (Dagger Springs Road) will be closed from its intersection with Route 694 (Gala Loop Road) for approximately four miles as oversized loads travel to their destination. Drivers and residents along the roadway can expect periodic closures on Route 622 (Dagger Springs Road) between the hours of 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., and after 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Watch message boards for the most up to date information. 

These oversized loads average up to 245 feet in length and approximately 14.5 feet wide and will be accompanied by state police escorts. Drivers should use caution and slow down when approaching or encountering these oversized loads as spacing adjustments on the roadway may be necessary. Delays in travel are expected so plan travel accordingly.

(UPDATED 4-10-26) *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 5-1-26) * 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 throughMay 2026.

(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 5-1-26) * ROUTE 602 (BRUSH CREEK ROAD) BRIDGE REPLACEMENT – Beginning on Monday, June 1, Route 602 (Brish Creek Road) will be closed for a bridge replacement over Lick Creek. The closure is located 0.65 mile from Route 738 to the Grayson County line. Traffic will not be able to cross the bridge and a signed detour will be in place. The road is expected to reopen on Tuesday, June 30.

(UPDATED 4-17-26) *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.

CRAIG COUNTY

(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 5-1-26) * ROUTE 637 (NEW HAVEN ROAD) CLOSED FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT – Beginning at 7 a.m. on May 18, 2026, Route 637 (New Haven Road) will be closed to traffic to perform a pipe replacement. A detour will be in place and drivers will need to seeak alternate routes around the closure. Traffic will not be able to cross the bridge. Work is scheduled for completion on June 1 by 7 p.m., weather permitting.

(NEW 5-1-26) * KID’S FISHING DAY – The 2026 Kid’s Fishing Day will be held on May 9, 2026, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Route 706 (Thunderstruck Road). Expect increased pedestrian activity.   

(NEW 5-1-26) * BICYCLE RIDE IN FLOYD – A bicycle ride will take place on May 16, 2026, beginning and ending at Red Rooster Coffee, 823 E. Main Street in Floyd from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

(UPDATED 5-1-26) * ROUTE 730 (DUNCANS CHAPEL ROAD) CLOSED FOR CULVERT REPLACEMENT – A portion of Route 730 (Duncans Chapel Road) is 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 4-10-26) * 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 5-1-26) * EGGLESTON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT MUD BOG – The  Eggleston Volunteer Fire Department Mud Bog will be held on May 2 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Driver should expect a change in the traffic pattern on Route 689 (Old School House Road) and an increase in pedestrian traffic.

HENRY COUNTY

(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 5-1-26) * ROUTE 614 CULVERT REPLACEMENT – Beginning on Monday, May 11, at 8 a.m., Route 614 (Tan Bark Road) will be closed for a culvert replacement at .25 mile from Route 612 to the Floyd County line. A signed detour will be in place and message boards will alert drivers who will need to seek alternate routes around the closure. The road is expected to reopen on Friday, May 22.

(NEW 5-1-26) * WILDERNESS ROAD RIDE – The Wilderness Road Ride (bicycling event) will be held on Saturday, May 23, 2026 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 3 p.m. The ride will start in the City of Radford and continue on various routes between Christiansburg and Wythe County. 

(UPDATED 4-24-26) * ROUTE 460 BUSINESS PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENT PROJECT – Work is nearing completion 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:
    • Right lane closures on Route 460 eastbound may be in place during daytime hours and alternating lane closures on Route 460 westbound during nighttime hours.
    • 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 4-24-26) * ROUTE 8 PARK AND RIDE PROJECT – Work is nearing completion for 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

(NEW 4-24-26) * ROUTE 631 CLOSED FOR BRIDGE REPLACEMENT – Weather permitting, beginning Monday, May 4, a portion of Route 631 (River Road) will be closed to through traffic beginning 1.16 miles from Route 671(Raven Rock Road) to 0.06 mile from Route 735 (Boyd Hollow Road) for a bridge replacement over Ararat River. During this time, a detour will be in place to assist the traveling public by using Route 735 (Boyd Hollow Road) to Route 823 (Spring Branch Road) to Route 631 (Doe Run Road). Motorists should pay attention to signs and electronic message boards that will be posted to alert drivers to the changes. Scheduled for completion by Friday, May 15.

(NEW 4-24-26) * ROUTE 676 CLOSED FOR PIPE REPLACEMENT – On Monday, May 18, 2026, starting at 9:00 a.m., a portion of Route 676 (East Fork Road) will be closed to traffic from 1.0 mile north of Route 672 (Johnson Creek Road) to 0.3 mile south of Route 673 (Sky View Drive) to perform a pipe replacement. During this time, a detour will be in place to assist the traveling public by using Route 672 (Johnson Creek Road) to Route 677 (Willis Gap Road) to Route 673 (Sky View Drive). Weather permitting, this closure is scheduled for completion by Friday, May 22, 2026.

(UPDATED 4-10-26) * INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS AT ROUTE 8 AND ROUTE 836 – A project to improve the intersection at Route 8 and Route 836 ( (Ashby Drive) is underway. This project will replace drainage structures and install a left turn lane from Route 8 northbound onto Route 836 westbound. Drivers can expect period traffic pattern changes and flaggers to control alternating traffic.