The widening will take place on the inner portion of I-81, which will narrow the median. Crews will also make other improvements, such as replacing nine bridges, replacing guardrails, and installing sound walls along this stretch.

The Transportation Department will send a ballot in October to both the owners and tenants of buildings most affected by the highway. The ballots ask whether they want a barrier constructed on the portion of I-81 closest to them. Recipients will have 21 days to respond. A second round of balloting will kick off if less than 50% of relevant parties respond the first time. At least 50% of participants must vote “yes” for VDOT to build the barrier on that stretch of I-81.