Next Phase is Announced in Interstate 64 Widening Zone Work

One of the most extensive and dangerous construction zones in Virginia is about to enter a new phase. It’s the Interstate 64 widening zone to the north of Newport News.

After a year of hazardous driving on narrow lanes, construction crews are to embark on the second of three segments in Interstate 64 widening in Newport News, James City County, and York County, announced the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT).

The next phase of the project is the $188.8 million stage that will add a lane and a shoulder in each direction for 7 miles. VDOT announced the stretch will extend from about a mile near the Humelsine Parkway close to Williamsburg and where segment one ends near Route 238 / Yorktown Road.

One lane will be open in each direction during the construction period. Exit and entrance ramps from I-64 to Route 199, will close from 8 p.m. until 5 a.m. on October 27. Traffic is to take a detour using loop ramps at the interchange.

VDOT officials say preliminary phase work includes shoulder strengthening on the eastbound side. Construction will start Wednesday, Oct. 27.

The work zone entails more narrow lanes during the construction and reduced speed limits. However, many crashes have been reported on the Interstate 64 widening zone which suggests drivers are not sticking to speed limits.

We have seen a number of wrecks in this area, some of them fatal. Earlier this year a cement truck crashed on I-64 in James City County, killing the driver.

In the summer, two highway workers were injured on I-64 north of Newport News when they were involved in an accident with a car.

When trucks and cars are involved in accidents in construction zones, highway workers are at risk. Recently, we represented a highway worker who suffered extreme injuries that led to his legs being amputated after he was struck by a drunk driver on I-264 in Norfolk. All cases are unique and different and no case is a predictor of another, but our client was awarded $2.86 million at a settlement hearing.

Please watch your speed and be aware of your surroundings in the Interstate 64 widening zone. Eventually, extra lanes should ensure the highway is safer, but in the meantime, please drive carefully in the work zone.

If you were involved in a work zone crash, please call Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers at (757) 333-3333.