Work related to the Interstate 81 Exit 245 reconfiguration project will require the closure of the northbound exit ramp onto Port Republic Road.
The northbound exit ramp will close on the morning of Monday, June 8, and is expected to reopen on the evening of Tuesday, June 9. Detour signage will be placed along I-81, and drivers are encouraged to use Exit 247 at East Market Street while the Port Republic Road ramp is closed.
Drivers should use caution in this area while work takes place.
The I-81 North realignment will relocate the northbound off ramp to make it align with Forest Hill Road. The project, which is expected to be completed by August 2020, seeks to improve the safety of drivers on Port Republic Road and of those trying to access Forest Hill Road after exiting the interstate.
The project also will relocate the James Madison University R-10 and R-11 parking lot entrance to Hunters Road, and the university has been a significant partner in the overall project – providing all needed right of way and easements for the project at no cost to the city.
The city was awarded a Virginia Department of Transportation Smart Scale grant for the realignment