Host Janet Michael sits down (virtually) with VDOT's Ken Slack for a wide-ranging update on major road improvement projects along Interstate 81 in Virginia's Shenandoah Valley. From bridge replacements to public meetings, Ken breaks down what drivers can expect in the months and years ahead.

Topics Covered

Project is approximately 40% complete
Key work includes replacing the southbound bridge over Cedar Creek and widening the span over the CSX railway
Traffic expected to shift toward the median around August to allow the next phase of bridge work
Bridge replacements are done in stages to keep traffic moving

Emergency Bridge Repair in Woodstock

A dump truck with its bed raised struck a bridge on Route 604 in Woodstock last fall; a tractor trailer collision followed
VDOT replaced a steel support beam, requiring a temporary southbound closure
Extensive outreach was coordinated across Shenandoah, Frederick, and Warren counties

I-81 Bridge at Millwood (Exit 313) — Winchester

Existing seven-lane bridge will be replaced with a nine-lane structure
New bridge will be built just north of the existing one; traffic will shift when ready
Surrounding improvements include turn lanes, auxiliary lanes, and pedestrian accommodations
Project involves Routes 50, 17, and 522 — one of the most heavily traveled crossings on I-81

Winchester North Improvements (Mile Markers 317–319)

Widening of approximately two miles of I-81 on the north end of Winchester
Major reconstruction of Exit 317 (Martinsburg Pike/Route 11)
Exit 317 will become a diverging diamond interchange — a new design for this part of Virginia
Redbud Road relocation is already underway to make way for the project
All work bundled under a single design-build contract
Public meeting tentatively scheduled for late June — watch VDOT's website and social media for details

How VDOT Selects Contractors

Projects go out for competitive bid, typically with a 1–2 month window
Complex projects may use a design-build approach, allowing contractors to bring innovation to the design
Local/regional contractors often have a "home court advantage" with established resources and relationships
Larger projects may attract contractors from outside Virginia

Public Meetings & Community Input

VDOT holds informal open-house style meetings — no podium, no formal testimony required
Display boards, one-on-one conversations with engineers, and court reporters available
Online surveys run simultaneously so anyone can participate remotely
Public input genuinely shapes design decisions — local knowledge of traffic patterns is valued

Oranda Park and Ride (Exit 298, Strasburg)

Current gravel lot with ~43 spaces will be expanded to approximately 130 spaces
Upgrades include full paving, striping, improved lighting, curbing, and a crosswalk across Oranda Road
Construction bid awarded soon; work expected to begin summer 2026
No impact anticipated on Route 11 or I-81 traffic during construction

Resources & Links

improve81.org — Interactive map, project details, public meeting info, and updates on all I-81 capital improvement projects
VDOT website — Search "VDOT projects" for information on all projects in the Staunton District
Improve 81 Newsletter — Quarterly updates on I-81 CIP projects (sign up at improve81.org)