RELEASE: CONTACT:

IMMEDIATE Dawn Eischen (804) 524-6179 Richmondinfo@VDOT.Virginia.gov Tom Jewell (804) 524-6387

RICH-0625 Aug. 3, 2006

VDOT Begins Final Phase of I-64 Bridge Widening & Rehabilitation Project
Project is two months ahead of schedule

HENRICO COUNTY, Va.—The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is entering the third and final phase of the Interstate 64 bridge widening and rehabilitation project over the Acca railroad switching yard. The project is currently two months ahead of schedule. Anticipated completion is November 2007.

Beginning Monday, August 7 at 8 p.m., weather permitting, crews will begin a traffic shift on I-64 west that will allow motorists to merge into four lanes across the bridge. Motorists are advised to slow down and remain in their lane when driving through this work zone. Due to the new traffic pattern and 11 foot lane width restriction, I-195 north motorists who wish to exit I-64 at Staples Mill Road (exit 185) are encouraged to continue using the Glenside Drive exit (183C) as an alternate to Staples Mill Road. Motorists are advised to slow down and remain in their lane when driving through this work zone.

In September, VDOT plans to open two additional lanes on I-64 east for a total of five lanes across the bridge. Overnight lane closures will continue from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. as needed. Motorists can expect delays in this area, especially during peak travel times.

"This project is along one of the most heavily-traveled areas in Richmond," said Ray Johnston, VDOT project manager. “We are pleased to be entering into this final phase two months ahead of schedule and will do our best to complete this project on time so motorists can enjoy smoother travel across the bridge.”

The $23 million project involves rehabilitation and widening of the I-64 bridge over the Acca railroad switching yard. This project will not only improve the current 42-year-old structure, but will also reduce congestion at the Bryan Park interchange and provide two additional lanes in each direction (for a total of 10 lanes), offering a continuous merge lane from Staples Mill Road to the Laburnum Avenue/I-195 interchange.

For more information about the I-64 Acca Yard bridge widening and rehabilitation project, visit the project Web page.