The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is planning to improve the I-64/I-464 interchange, a historically busy part of the highway that becomes heavily congested during peak hours.
VDOT plans to widen I-64 and add two lanes at the onramp to I-464. A new flyover ramp heading south onto the Chesapeake Expressway will also be added, and the ramp to I-464 north will be reconfigured.
The $181 million project will eliminate the need for drivers to cross multiple lanes of traffic to exit, according to VDOT senior communications specialist Jordan-Ashley Walker.
“This particular area we’ve seen issues with traffic operations, congestion, backups, so this proposed project is designed to address some of those pinpoints,” Walker said. “That’s really what this project is all about, is improving connection, enhancing safety, and improving traffic operations throughout that interchange.”
Chesapeake residents have long expressed their frustrations with the interchange and its functionality.
“I’m so tired of traffic,” Saniyah Small said. “Every day we’re in traffic for some reason.”
Another driver, Jenesha Blount said, “I work in Newport News so I’m always late for work and it’s annoying.”
VDOT is asking for public input on this proposal. A public forum will take place today, May 23, at 4 p.m. EDT at Crestwood Intermediate School on Great Bridge Boulevard in Chesapeake.
Community members can also provide their opinions by sending an email to Project Manager, Erin Foley, at [email protected]. The agency asks for “I-64/I-464 Interchange Ramp Improvements Project” to be included in the subject line.
Written comments may be submitted by mail addressed to Erin Foley, P.E, Project Manager, Virginia Department of Transportation, 7511 Burbage Drive, Suffolk, VA 23435.
The deadline for public input is June 2. Construction is set to start in 2024.
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Source: 13 News Now
