News Summary
The Virginia Department of Transportation has unveiled a significant rehabilitation project affecting Interstate 64 in Newport News, set to start in May 2025 and run through 2026. The project will involve lane reductions and traffic modifications at major overpasses, expected to increase congestion during peak hours. VDOT urges drivers to remain cautious and plan for potential delays as construction unfolds. Additionally, the relocation of a Costco store is anticipated to complicate traffic further. Future improvements are also planned for the Denbigh Boulevard Interchange to enhance traffic flow and regional connectivity.
Newport News, VA – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has announced a long-term bridge rehabilitation project that will significantly impact traffic on Interstate 64 (I-64) in Newport News, starting in May 2025 and extending through at least 2026. This extensive work will involve a series of lane closures as well as traffic modifications aimed at improving the infrastructure.
The project will affect two major overpasses: J. Clyde Morris Boulevard and Hampton Roads Center Parkway. As part of the rehabilitation efforts, travel lanes in both directions between exits 258 and 261 will be reduced from four lanes to three. Preparations for the project indicate that lane closures for J. Clyde Morris Boulevard could commence as early as Monday, May 5, while closures for Hampton Roads Center Parkway are expected to begin a week later on May 11. It is critical for motorists to be aware that construction is anticipated to continue through early 2026, depending on weather conditions and various construction schedules.
VDOT is urging drivers to exercise caution in work zones and plan for potential delays, as the lane reductions may lead to increased congestion during peak travel times. Real-time traffic updates will be available through the 511 Virginia traffic service as well as VDOT’s social media channels to help commuters navigate through these changes.
In addition to the ongoing rehabilitation work, Newport News is preparing for another significant traffic change due to the relocation of a Costco store in the area. This move is expected to generate an additional 150 to 200 vehicles during peak hours, which could further complicate traffic flow, particularly around existing infrastructure such as the Nova medical center nearby.
Looking ahead, VDOT is also embarking on an extensive improvement project focusing on the I-64 Denbigh Boulevard Interchange. This initiative aims to enhance traffic flow and mitigate congestion issues currently plaguing the area. The Denbigh Boulevard Interchange Project will be executed in two phases. The first phase is expected to be completed by mid-2029 at an estimated cost of approximately $93 million, while the second phase is anticipated to wrap up by mid-2034, carrying a projected price tag of around $188.1 million.
Importantly, none of the funding allocated for the Denbigh Boulevard Interchange Project will come from Newport News’ Capital Improvement Plan, ensuring that local resources are preserved. VDOT’s decision to pursue this project is informed by detailed analyses, including an Interchange Justification Report, which highlighted the urgent need for improvements to manage both current and future traffic demands as well as to enhance regional connectivity.
The upcoming rehabilitation of bridges and the proposed interchange enhancements signify a long-term investment in infrastructure that will require careful attention from both drivers and local residents. As the schedules for these projects unfold, effective communication regarding traffic changes and alternate routes will be essential for minimizing disruption and ensuring safety on the roads during this transition period.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Overnight Lane Closures Scheduled for I-64 West
Additional Resources
- 13 News Now
- Pilot Online
- Wavy
- Daily Press
- WTKR
- Wikipedia: Newport News, Virginia
- Google Search: Newport News traffic construction
- Google Scholar: Newport News traffic accidents
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Newport News
- Google News: Newport News traffic updates
