Keep Your Eyes on the Road: Staying Focused While Driving Through Hampton Roads’ Construction Zones 

Current & Upcoming Work Zones in Hampton Roads 

Whether you’re commuting daily or just passing through, here are some of the major construction projects to be aware of as you travel through the seven cities: 

• Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT) Expansion: Scheduled for completion in 2027, this is the largest and most expensive highway construction project in Virginia history. It includes twin two-lane tunnels and widening nearly 10 miles of I-64 between Hampton and Norfolk. Expect ongoing traffic shifts and reduced speed limits. 
• I-64 Express Lanes – Hampton Segment 4C: From May 2025 through late 2026, traffic shifts begin on I-64 at J. Clyde Morris Boulevard (exit 258) through Hampton Roads Center Parkway (exit 261) as express lanes built to improve traffic flow.
• I-64 Widening – Segment C: Ongoing through 2026, this project adds lanes in both directions from the New Kent/James City County line to Route 199. Construction activity may slow traffic in this corridor.

• I-64/I-264 Interchange Improvements: Improvements at this major interchange are expected to continue into at least 2030. This area is already a well-known bottleneck which this project is meant to correct.   
• Route 134 Over Route 17 Bridge Rehabilitation: Through late 2026, crews are working to improve the safety and structural integrity of the Route 134 bridge over Route 17 in York County. During construction, traffic in both directions will be burdened by detours, changes to ramp access, and period lane closures. 

• Norfolk International Airport Access Improvements: Starting in 2025 and continuing through winter 2026/2027, a new four-way intersection is being built near the airport to improve access and traffic circulation. 

• Downtown Norfolk Flood Protection Project: Construction will begin on an 8-mile seawall, pump stations, and related infrastructure to protect the downtown area from flooding. The estimated end date for all parts of the project is 2037, but has already experienced significant delays. Drivers in downtown Norfolk can expect to continue navigating flooding and construction in this area.   

These major projects, along with numerous smaller ones, create a dynamic and often unpredictable driving environment. 

Before heading out, drivers can consult the 511.vdot.virginia.gov system for live updates.

Virginia Laws & Penalties That Apply to Construction Zones 

Virginia has strict laws aimed at reducing distracted driving, particularly in work zones: 

• Hands-Free Law: As of January 1, 2021, Virginia law prohibits the use of handheld personal communications devices while driving. This includes texting, talking, and using apps, unless the device is mounted and used hands-free. A first offense incurs a $125 fine, while highway construction zone fines automatically increase to $250, whether it’s a first-time offense or not. 

• Penalties For Speeding In Work Zones: Fines for speeding in work zones when workers are present can cost up to $500 per infraction. 

These laws are designed to protect both drivers and construction workers. Violating them not only endangers lives but can also result in significant fines and penalties. 

Safety Tips For Driving Through Construction Zones

To stay safe in work zones:

• Stay Alert: Avoid multi-tasking while driving. This means no eating, adjusting your radio, or programming the GPS while the vehicle is moving.
• Obey Posted Signs and Signals: Speed limits are often lower in construction zones. Watch out for flashing lights, cones, temporary signs, and flaggers directing traffic.
• Avoid Distractions: If you’re unsure how to make your phone hands-free, most phones have built-in voice assistants. Know how to enable those voice commands to navigate maps without touching your phone.
• Maintain a Safe Following Distance: Allow extra space between your vehicle and the one in front of you to give yourself time to react.
• Plan Ahead: Check your route before driving. Tools like Google Maps or Waze can help identify crashes and congestion. You can use these tools to gain awareness of unavoidable traffic patterns or heavy traffic areas.