| RELEASE: CONTACT: |
IMMEDIATE Sandy Myers (540) 332-9201 Sandy.Myers@vdot.virginia.gov Cellular: (540) 292-2500 |
STA-034 Feb. 8, 2008 |
I-81 ROCKBRIDGE COUNTY SOUTHBOUND LANES WILL NOT OPEN UNTIL LATER THIS EVENING
STAUNTON – Both Interstate 81 southbound lanes at mile marker 186 in Rockbridge County will remain closed until approximately 7 p.m., however this time may change depending on how clean-up efforts progress. This location is near Lexington.
Late this morning there was a tractor trailer accident involving a tanker, which is carrying a plastic substance. The product on the tanker needs to be removed before the vehicle can be moved to open up the lanes. Crews are on the way to the site to begin this work. According to VDOT officials at the scene the product on the tanker is not a hazardous material.
The Virginia Department of Transportation Staunton Traffic Management Center states that traffic is getting by the accident site on the shoulder. Motorists should expect significant delays in this area.
Traffic alerts and traveler information can be obtained by dialing 511. In areas where 511 is unavailable, dial 1-800-578-4111. (TTY/TDD users, call 711). Traffic alerts and traveler information also are available at 511Virginia.org.
Highway safety is everyone’s responsibility. Virginia’s highway safety partnership — the Virginia Department of Transportation, Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles and Virginia State Police — challenges you to help prevent highway fatalities. Buckle up. Avoid distractions. Share the road. Drive drug- and alcohol-free. Obey speed limits. For more information on the Highway Safety Challenge and things you can do to avoid becoming Virginia’s next traffic fatality, visit www.safeVAhighways.org.
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