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VDOT Launches Widening Project on I-64 in James City County

Ongoing construction works for the I-64 widening project in James City County.

News Summary

The Virginia Department of Transportation is initiating a major widening project on Interstate 64 in James City County to improve traffic flow and safety. The project involves adding a lane in each direction along a 9-mile stretch to expedite travel and reduce congestion. Construction began in April 2023 and is part of a larger $759 million endeavor expected to complete in five years, with Segment C projected to finish by fall 2027. Measures will be taken to minimize disturbances and protect local wildlife during this significant infrastructure upgrade.

James City County, Virginia – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is set to commence a significant widening project on Interstate 64 in western James City County, aimed at enhancing traffic flow and safety. An informational meeting was recently conducted by VDOT alongside Allan Myers and Wagman Heavy Civil to provide details about the upcoming changes to the highway.

The project entails adding one additional lane of travel in both directions along a 9-mile stretch known as Segment C, which runs from mile marker 233 to the James City/New Kent County line. This section is part of the larger I-64 Gap Widening Project, designed to upgrade the highway from two lanes to three in each direction, stretching from the Historic Triangle to metro Richmond.

Construction for Segment C began in April 2023, following the earlier initiation of Segment A later in the same year and Segment B the following year. The overall I-64 Gap Widening Project, which carries an estimated price tag of $759 million, is scheduled for completion over five years. Segment C itself is projected to cost around $174 million and is expected to be finished by fall 2027.

The main objectives of the project are to alleviate congestion, enhance safety, and facilitate smoother travel and commerce across central and southeastern Virginia. Upon the completion of all segments, Interstate 64 will feature at least three lanes in both the eastbound and westbound directions from Hampton Roads to Interstate 295.

Current activities on Segment C include tree removal and earth-moving operations, which are primarily occurring within the median of the roadway. In compliance with guidelines from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, there will be a temporary halt on tree removal from May 15 to July 31 to protect local bat species, including the northern long-eared bat and the tricolored bat. However, construction work on other infrastructure like culverts and bridges will continue during this hiatus.

The construction efforts for Segment C will start near the James City/New Kent County line and will progress toward the east. This includes land clearing and grading, with plans to widen the bridges over Six Mount Zion Road and replace pavement under two overpasses for increased overhead clearance. To ensure traffic safety during construction, there will be some nighttime work scheduled when lane and ramp closures are required, though the majority of activities will occur during the day.

As part of the project, the potential construction of a sound wall is also under consideration based on community preferences. A recent study has assessed the feasibility of a 1,400-foot barrier near Rochambeau Drive and Cloverleaf Lane. Residents residing adjacent to the proposed sound wall location will receive surveys to gauge support, with construction proceeding only if at least 50% of respondents are in favor.

Additionally, the Lightfoot Park and Ride commuter parking lot will undergo resurfacing as part of the improvements, while there are currently no planned upgrades for the Croaker Road Park and Ride. VDOT has committed to minimizing disruptions to residents and the surrounding landscape throughout the construction process.

For more information regarding the I-64 widening project, residents are encouraged to reach out to project representatives via email or explore the project’s online page.