The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has launched a new study to assess and improve the Interstate 81 corridor. The I-81 Corridor Improvement Plan (CIP) will analyze the entire 325-mile stretch of the interstate in the Commonwealth to identify safety and congestion issues.
VDOT is seeking input from drivers and stakeholders to compare real-world travel experiences with traffic-data analysis. The study includes an online survey with an interactive map where participants can highlight locations with traffic concerns. This is the first phase of the study and this public engagement period is open until April 15. The survey is available in multiple languages on the VDOT Project Page, and additional comments can be submitted to va81corridorplan@vdot.virginia.gov.
After the initial public engagement period, the study team which combines data obtained from the survey data with traffic data to develop recommendations. Additional opportunities for public comment on said recommendations.
The study is part of the Interstate Operations and Enhancement Program (IOEP), which focuses on improving safety, reliability, and traffic flow on Virginia’s interstate highways. A similar study was conducted in 2018, leading to 65 construction projects totaling approximately $3 billion. Information about these projects is available at Improve81.org.