NORFOLK, Va. — The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) said on Thursday it is planning to lift most lane closures and suspend some work zones on major roads "to make end-of-year travel more delightful."
The changes will start Friday, Dec. 22 at noon and go until Tuesday, Dec. 26 at noon. They will start again on Friday, Dec. 29 and go until Tuesday, Jan. 2 at noon.
The department is encouraging people to visit its online travel trends map that shows anticipated peak congestion periods on Virginia interstates during the Christmas and New Year holiday period.
According to VDOT, periods of heavy congestion are most likely to occur from mid-morning to evening on Friday and Saturday before Christmas, as well as Tuesday through Thursday the following week.
One of the notable traffic areas will be Interstate 64 in Hampton Roads due to lane and shoulder closures related to different construction activities, including at the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT).
VDOT also shared several tips for people to stay safe while traveling on the roads:
- In the event of any winter weather threat, travelers should pay close attention to forecasts, official announcements and advisories, and should adjust travel based on conditions
- Keep an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle in case of a breakdown in the cold
- Buckle up and ensure passengers and car seats are secured
- Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you
- Use your signals for lane changes and turns
- Don’t drive distracted, and speak up if someone else is doing so
- Drive sober and contact law enforcement if you see a drunk driver
For the latest road conditions across Hampton Roads and Virginia, visit 13News Now's Traffic page.
