Temporary ramp closure scheduled to start as early Feb. 6 with detour in place as part of Norfolk Express Lanes construction project
NORFOLK — Starting overnight as early as Thursday, Feb. 6, contractor crews with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) are scheduled to implement a long-term, full closure of the northbound on-ramp from Tidewater Drive to I-64 west, as part of the first phase of construction projects for the Hampton Roads Express Lanes (HREL) Norfolk Segment. The closure is estimated to remain in place through fall 2025.
To access I-64 west during this closure, motorists traveling northbound on Tidewater Drive should follow detour signs directing traffic to continue underneath the I-64 overpass to the next left-turn lane onto the on-ramp to I-64 west.
Additionally, the existing long-term, full on-ramp closure to I-64 east from Tidewater Drive south, with new left turn at Thole Street to access I-64 east, is estimated to remain in place through early 2026.
Motorists are reminded to use caution when traveling near work zones, obey posted speed limits, follow lane markings and barrier guides, be alert to digital message signs and drive distraction-free.
This work is part of the first phase of HREL Norfolk Segment construction projects, that started in summer 2023 and includes the conversion of the existing inside shoulder along I-64 into a high-occupancy tolled, part-time shoulder Express Lane running alongside the three existing general purpose lanes between Patrol Road and Tidewater Drive for a total of 2 miles, as well as the widening and rehabilitation of several existing bridges on I-64.
This HREL Norfolk Segment will ultimately become a part of an overall continuous 45-mile high-occupancy toll Express Lanes network on I-64, from west of Denbigh Boulevard in Newport News to the I-264/I-664 Bowers Hill interchange in Chesapeake. As traffic demand continues to increase in the region, incorporating the Express Lanes dynamic tolling model, together with other interstate improvements, provides an additional approach to managing congestion in the long term and providing more travel choices and a reliable travel network for Hampton Roads motorists. For more information on the Hampton Roads Express Lanes projects and to learn more about construction updates, traffic impacts and to sign-up to receive project updates, visit 64expresslanes.org.