The Virginia Department of Transportation says the work-zone speed limit on Interstate 81 in the Harrisonburg area will drop from 60 to 55 mph starting Monday, July 20, as part of the interstate widening project. The change will apply around the clock to northbound and southbound traffic between about mile markers 242 and 248, according to VDOT.
VDOT says drivers should also expect lane shifts during the week of July 20-24 on the southern end of the work zone, between about mile markers 242 and 244. In both directions, traffic will shift right and use part of the recently widened right shoulders, the agency said.
The department says nighttime and overnight single-lane closures are planned on the southern portion of the work zone that week for line-marking. Shoulder-strengthening and shoulder-widening work will then move to the northern and middle portions, between about mile markers 244 and 248, VDOT said. The work is weather permitting, and schedules may change, according to the announcement.
VDOT says the Harrisonburg widening project is scheduled for completion in summer 2032 and is being built under a $219 million contract. The agency says the project is intended to enhance safety, improve traffic flow and increase reliability.
Road users can report hazards, request service or seek transportation information through the VDOT Customer Service Center, which operates 24/7, the announcement says. The center can be reached at 800-367-7623. VDOT says project updates and digital newsletter sign-ups are available at vdot.virginia.gov/81Harrisonburg.