You may see some more traffic (yes, even more than usual) on I-95, as the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) works on a safety improvement project.
According to VDOT, construction has begun on the improvements on I-95 and Route 3 in Fredericksburg. There will be construction workers working on the project for the next 18-months, stated VDOT.
“After reviewing the I-95 corridor, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) determined the Route 3 interchange in Fredericksburg had a crash rate above the statewide average. This project will reduce vehicle merging and weaving that can lead to crashes, injuries and congestion on Route 3 and I-95. These improvements are designed to lower the crash risk by eliminating conflict points where vehicles currently merge,” stated a release.
The project is being funded with federal funds from the Highway Safety Improvement Progra, and the $18.2 million project was awarded to Branch Civil – a Manassas-based firm.
During construction, VDOT warns that drivers should be prepared for closures or temporary traffic shifts through January 2019.
“Travel lanes will remain open at peak times on weekday mornings and afternoons, but midday and overnight lane closures will be needed periodically throughout the project,” stated a release.
More on the project, from VDOT:
Later this year, drivers traveling to Carl D. Silver Parkway from Interstate 95 southbound will be able to use a separated free-flow lane which will directly lead to the Central Park entrance.
The Interstate 95 southbound exit ramp will extended and widened to hold additional traffic. Exiting southbound traffic traveling to Route 3 westbound will use triple right turn lanes at the end of the ramp. These lanes would make a slight right turn onto Route 3, controlled by a new traffic signal.
On Route 3 eastbound, traffic will access I-95 northbound using three left turn lanes controlled by a new traffic signal. The existing on-ramp will be closed at the end of the project.
