RELEASE: CONTACT:

IMMEDIATE Luefras Robinson 757-925-1516 L.Robinson@VDOT.Virginia.gov Tiffany Erbach 757-925-1660

HRO-0615 March 30, 2006

VDOT WORKS TO IMPROVE SAFETY ON I-64 NEAR I-264 IN THE CITY OF NORFOLK

NORFOLK –The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is partnering with the City of Norfolk and Virginia State Police to improve safety on I-64 at the I-264 interchange in the City of Norfolk by restricting lane changes on certain parts of the interstate.

On Sunday, April 2, VDOT crews will add solid double white lines to the pavement as well as new signage to help control driver behavior in this area between Northampton Boulevard and I-264 West. The move will improve motorist safety on the highly traveled interstate, which has seen several accidents from last minute lane changes as motorists merge onto I-264 West toward Downtown Norfolk.

“These measures should cut down on some of the more dangerous behaviors we are seeing on this stretch of highway,” said Mike Corwin, P.E., VDOT’s District Traffic Engineer. “We are always concerned first and foremost about drivers being safe on our roadways. These measures have helped improve safety in other areas, and we are hopeful that they will make a big difference in this area.”

The far right lane will be labeled “EXIT ONLY – 1 MILE” leading up to the I-264 West Interchange. Motorists will also notice signs indicating “CROSSING SOLID DOUBLE WHITE LINES PROHIBITED” and “RIGHT LANE MUST EXIT.” The same signage is in place on I-64 West toward I-264 East going to Virginia Beach.

Travelers new to the area may be caught off guard by the new signage on I-64 East, but State Police Sgt. Sammy Carr said there’s no excuse for local drivers. “We will be watching this area very closely in the months ahead, and we expect local motorists to obey these signs,” said Carr. “Without people cutting in and out of traffic, this road will be safer for everyone.”

The fine for crossing the solid line is $30 plus court costs. This could also result in negative points on the motorist’s driving record.

For the latest information about traffic in Hampton Roads, dial 511 or visit www.VirginiaDOT.org.