RELEASE: CONTACT:

IMMEDIATE Sandy Shortridge 757-925-3627 sandy.shortridge@virginiadot.org

HRO-0316 March 25, 2003

Gov. Warner to speak at New U.S. Route 17 Groundbreaking

WHAT: Ground breaking ceremony for the new U.S. Route 17 in Chesapeake.

WHY: The Virginia Department of Transportation and the City of Chesapeake will join with citizens and local dignitaries to observe the beginning of this important new roadway construction project. Rather than a traditional turning of the earth, participants will drive surveyor’s stakes in recognition of George Washington’s life as a surveyor.

WHEN: Friday, March 28 at 10 a.m. rain or shine

WHERE: At a location on Number 10 Lane east of the intersection of Dominion Boulevard
Chesapeake, Virginia

WHO: Scheduled speakers include Governor Mark R. Warner, Chesapeake Mayor William E. Ward, United States Congressman J. Randy Forbes, Senator Harry B. Blevins, and Delegate Terrie L. Suit.

Directions to the ceremony location:

From the North: Take Dominion Boulevard (Route 17) and turn left onto Number 10 Lane.

From the South: Take George Washington Highway to Dominion Boulevard (Route 17) North and turn right onto Number 10 Lane.

From Richmond: Take I-64 East to Hampton Roads; travel I-664 South through the Monitor Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel; pick up I-64 again at Bowers Hill; stay on I-64 East toward Chesapeake; take the Great Bridge Boulevard South exit (Exit 292); turn right at the end of the exit. At the first intersection, turn right onto Dominion Boulevard. Travel on Dominion Boulevard for approximately 2 to 3 miles. Turn left onto Number 10 Lane.

Chesapeake police officers will direct traffic onto the ceremony site.

###