Roanoke, October 18, 2025
A new interstate connector designed to alleviate congestion has begun construction near Roanoke. This project aims to enhance freight transport links across central Virginia, supporting economic growth and facilitating smoother traffic flow in the region. The development is expected to create jobs and improve access to important commercial areas, thereby benefiting local communities and businesses.
Roanoke, Virginia – Construction has commenced on a new interstate connector near Roanoke, aiming to alleviate congestion and bolster economic growth by enhancing freight transport links across central Virginia regions.
The project involves widening Interstate 81 to three lanes in both directions between Exit 143 in Roanoke County and Exit 150 in Botetourt County. This expansion is part of the $3 billion I-81 Corridor Improvement Program (CIP), which includes 65 capital projects and numerous improvements throughout the 325-mile corridor in Virginia. ([wdbj7.com](https://www.wdbj7.com/2024/07/25/3616-million-awarded-i-81-widening-project/?utm_source=openai))
Design work for the project is underway, with construction expected to begin in fall 2025 and completion anticipated by summer 2031. The $361.6 million contract for this project was awarded to Branch Civil Inc. of Roanoke. ([improve81.vdot.virginia.gov](https://improve81.vdot.virginia.gov/news/salem-district/commonwealth-transportation-board-awards-361-million-contract-for-interstate-81-widening-project.html?utm_source=openai))
In addition to the widening, the project includes replacing eight bridges and installing over 8,500 feet of sound barriers along the northbound lanes. These enhancements aim to reduce crashes, lessen delays, and improve response times. ([vdot.virginia.gov](https://www.vdot.virginia.gov/projects/salem-district/interstate-81-widening-exit-143-to-exit-150-roanoke-county-and-botetourt-county/?utm_source=openai))
The I-81 Corridor Improvement Program is a comprehensive initiative designed to address the growing transportation needs of central Virginia. By expanding capacity and improving infrastructure, the program seeks to support economic development and enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses in the region. ([wdbj7.com](https://www.wdbj7.com/2024/07/25/3616-million-awarded-i-81-widening-project/?utm_source=openai))
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the purpose of the new interstate connector near Roanoke?
The project aims to alleviate congestion and bolster economic growth by enhancing freight transport links across central Virginia regions.
What does the project entail?
The project involves widening Interstate 81 to three lanes in both directions between Exit 143 in Roanoke County and Exit 150 in Botetourt County. This expansion is part of the $3 billion I-81 Corridor Improvement Program (CIP), which includes 65 capital projects and numerous improvements throughout the 325-mile corridor in Virginia. The program aims to improve safety, increase reliability, and foster economic growth. ([wdbj7.com](https://www.wdbj7.com/2024/07/25/3616-million-awarded-i-81-widening-project/?utm_source=openai))
When is construction expected to begin and complete?
Design work for the project is underway, with construction expected to begin in fall 2025 and completion anticipated by summer 2031. The $361.6 million contract for this project was awarded to Branch Civil Inc. of Roanoke. ([improve81.vdot.virginia.gov](https://improve81.vdot.virginia.gov/news/salem-district/commonwealth-transportation-board-awards-361-million-contract-for-interstate-81-widening-project.html?utm_source=openai))
What additional improvements are included in the project?
In addition to the widening, the project includes replacing eight bridges and installing over 8,500 feet of sound barriers along the northbound lanes. These enhancements aim to reduce crashes, lessen delays, and improve response times. ([vdot.virginia.gov](https://www.vdot.virginia.gov/projects/salem-district/interstate-81-widening-exit-143-to-exit-150-roanoke-county-and-botetourt-county/?utm_source=openai))
What is the I-81 Corridor Improvement Program?
The I-81 Corridor Improvement Program is a comprehensive initiative designed to address the growing transportation needs of central Virginia. By expanding capacity and improving infrastructure, the program seeks to support economic development and enhance the quality of life for residents and businesses in the region. ([wdbj7.com](https://www.wdbj7.com/2024/07/25/3616-million-awarded-i-81-widening-project/?utm_source=openai))
Key Features of the Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Project Scope | Widening of I-81 to three lanes in both directions between Exit 143 in Roanoke County and Exit 150 in Botetourt County. |
| Project Cost | $361.6 million contract awarded to Branch Civil Inc. of Roanoke. |
| Construction Timeline | Design work underway; construction expected to begin in fall 2025 and complete by summer 2031. |
| Additional Improvements | Replacement of eight bridges and installation of over 8,500 feet of sound barriers along the northbound lanes. |
| Program Background | Part of the $3 billion I-81 Corridor Improvement Program, aiming to improve safety, increase reliability, and foster economic growth across the 325-mile corridor in Virginia. |
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