Radford Watch

Road Closures & Construction

Current road construction projects, closures, and traffic updates affecting Radford and the surrounding area. Check VDOT's 511 Virginia for real-time conditions before traveling.

Major Active Projects

I-81 New River Bridge Replacement

Active
I-81 at Exit 105 (Tyler Avenue) over New River
VDOT Project Page

Full replacement of the northbound and southbound bridges on I-81 over the New River near Exit 105. This is one of the largest active VDOT projects in the New River Valley.

Contractor

Vecellio and Grogan, Inc.

Project Cost

$62.2 million

Est. Completion

December 2026 (estimated)

Traffic Impacts

  • Lane closures and shifts on I-81 NB and SB near Exit 105
  • Periodic nighttime full closures with detours via Route 11
  • Reduced speed limits through work zone (55 mph)
  • Possible delays during peak construction periods
  • Ramp closures at Exit 105 may occur periodically

How to Check for Road Closures

  1. 1. Visit 511Virginia.org — VDOT's official real-time traffic info system with cameras and alerts.
  2. 2. Call 511 from any phone — Virginia's free traffic information hotline.
  3. 3. Follow @VaDOT on X/Twitter — real-time updates on closures and incidents.
  4. 4. Check the Waze Live Map — community-sourced reports of road issues.
  5. 5. Sign up for Alert Radford — receive local emergency and road alerts.

Work Zone Safety

1.Slow down — fines double in work zones
2.Stay alert and minimize distractions
3.Don't tailgate — maintain safe following distance
4.Watch for workers and equipment entering lanes
5.Obey flaggers and posted speed limits
6.Merge early when lanes close ahead

Virginia law doubles fines for traffic violations in active work zones. Drive safely — workers' lives depend on it.

Report a Road Hazard

For potholes, downed signs, or road hazards in Radford, contact Public Works at (540) 731-3610.

For state-maintained roads (I-81, Route 11, Route 177), contact VDOT at 1-800-FOR-ROAD (367-7623).