JAMES CITY COUNTY — Starting this month, roadway construction activities are scheduled to begin on the next of three segments of the I-64 Gap Widening projects, designed to enhance connectivity between Richmond and Hampton Roads.
Formally referred to as “Segment C” of the I-64 Gap Widening projects, the $174 million design-build contract was awarded in April 2024 to Allan Myers in a joint venture with Wagman. The project will widen I-64 from four to six lanes between mile marker 224.3 at the New Kent County/James City County line to the western limits of the recently widened interstate segment in York County, just west of Route 199/Lightfoot (exit 234).
In addition to the nine miles of I-64 roadway widening and pavement rehabilitation, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) notes the project also includes the repair, rehabilitation and widening of two bridges on I-64 east and west over Six Mount Zion Road, as well as paving the Lightfoot Park and Ride lot in York County. Additional work includes the installation of overhead signage and advanced traffic management technology systems, sound barrier walls, retaining walls, and storm drainage box culverts and pipes.
Initial work will include shoulder strengthening operations and was slated to start as early as Nov. 10, VDOT said, with overnight right-lane closures Sunday through Friday each week starting from as early as 7 p.m. until 5 a.m. the following mornings.
Shoulder strengthening work, which involves milling and paving the asphalt along the outside shoulders and ramps, is estimated to continue through mid-December, after which eastbound and westbound traffic will be shifted to the right shoulder onto the new pavement, according to VDOT. A temporary barrier will then be installed, requiring nightly eastbound and westbound left-lane closures.
The I-64 Gap Widening projects have been divided into three segments labeled Segments A, B, and C, with each being constructed as an operationally independent project. VDOT said the collective objective involves improving congestion and safety in the corridor by widening approximately 29 miles of travel lanes, adding a 12-foot wide third lane and 10-foot wide paved shoulders in both directions.
The I-64 corridor within these project areas currently only provides two lanes in each direction and links to sections at both ends that have three travel lanes — hence, its designation as “the gap.”
The I-64 Gap Segment C Widening Project is estimated to be completed as early as late 2027.
For more information on the project, visit VDOT.
