Via VDOT Press Release from March 31, 2025:
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has launched a new study to continue the improvement of the Interstate 81 corridor. The I-81 Corridor Improvement Plan (CIP) will analyze the interstate’s entire 325 miles in Virginia to identify additional safety and congestion issues along the corridor. As part of the first phase of this effort, VDOT is seeking feedback from the public to determine whether recent traffic-data analysis aligns with what drivers experience while traveling along the corridor. We’re reaching out to you directly as a stakeholder on this corridor, to make you aware of this opportunity to provide feedback.
Online Survey with Interactive Map – Live March 31 – April 15, 2025
This public engagement period, which is open until April 15, includes a survey with an interactive map that allows the public to pinpoint locations where they experience issues on the corridor. The survey, which has a translation tool for multiple languages, is also available at the VDOT Project Page and additional comments can be sent to va81corridorplan@vdot.virginia.gov.
The next phase of the study will use traffic data and the online survey to develop recommendations for improving the areas identified during the first phase. The study team will seek input from the public on those recommendations at in-person meetings this summer, and again in the fall to further refine the recommendations. The full study is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.
This study is being conducted as part of the Interstate Operations and Enhancement Program (IOEP), which is intended to improve safety, reliability and travel flow along interstate highway corridors in the Commonwealth through the development and funding of operational and capital improvements.
VDOT completed a similar study on I-81 in 2018, which resulted in the advancement of 65 construction projects worth approximately $3 billion. Information on those projects can be found at Improve81.org