RELEASE: CONTACT:

IMMEDIATE Michelle Earl (276) 669-9901 Michelle.Earl@vdot.virginia.gov

BRIS-24343 Jan. 24, 2008

CLEANUP CONTINUES ON INTERSTATE 81 NEAR EXIT 7 IN BRISTOL
Southbound Lanes to be Closed for Two Hours

BRISTOL -- Clean-up continues from an accident that occurred yesterday evening on Interstate 81 near Exit 7 in Bristol, involving a tanker loaded with hazardous materials.

The new tanker is on site and workers are preparing to move the hazardous materials to the new tanker. The closure of southbound I-81 is necessary to off-load the tanker.

It is anticipated that the southbound lanes will be closed for approximately two hours. The northbound lanes will continue to be down to one lane.

Motorists are advised to plan alternate routes and anticipate significant delays. Visit 511Virginia.org or call 511 for updates.