Interstate 81 Through Harrisonburg Will Be Expanded Soon, But Will It Have Sound Barriers?
Scott P. Rogers
A nearly six mile stretch of Interstate 81 (from mile marker 242 to 248.8) will soon be expanded to have three lanes of traffic in each direction!
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.
The noise barrier balloting is set to take place in October 2023.
In 2024, VDOT will work on acquiring right of ways and will work on relocating utilities.
In 2025, VDOT will advertise for construction.
The widening of Interstate 81 is anticipated to be substantially complete by December 2029... in about six years.
Read all about this I-81 Harrisonburg Widening Project here.
