Starting on the night of Thursday, February 6, contractor crews with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will begin a long-term closure of the northbound on-ramp from Tidewater Drive to I-64 west. This closure is part of the first phase of construction projects for the Hampton Roads Express Lanes (HREL) Norfolk Segment and is expected to last until fall 2025.
During this period, drivers traveling northbound on Tidewater Drive who need to access I-64 west should follow detour signs directing them under the I-64 overpass to use the next left-turn lane onto the on-ramp for I-64 west.
In addition, an existing long-term closure remains in place for accessing I-64 east from Tidewater Drive south. Drivers are required to take a new left turn at Thole Street to reach I-64 east. This arrangement is projected to continue through early 2026.
Motorists are urged to exercise caution when navigating work zones, adhere to posted speed limits, and remain attentive to digital message signs while driving without distractions.
The HREL Norfolk Segment construction began in summer 2023 and includes converting the existing inside shoulder along I-64 into a high-occupancy tolled express lane running alongside three general-purpose lanes between Patrol Road and Tidewater Drive. The project also involves widening and rehabilitating several bridges along this stretch of highway.
Eventually, this segment will become part of a continuous 45-mile network of high-occupancy toll express lanes extending from west of Denbigh Boulevard in Newport News to the I-264/I-664 Bowers Hill interchange in Chesapeake. The incorporation of dynamic tolling models aims to manage congestion effectively while providing additional travel options for motorists in Hampton Roads.
For more information about the Hampton Roads Express Lanes projects or updates regarding construction impacts, individuals can visit 64expresslanes.org.
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