Contractors are scheduled to install a new utility line crossing over Interstate 81 at mile marker 313.8 near Winchester.
The work will require slow-roll closures (rolling roadblocks) managed by the Virginia State Police on northbound and southbound I-81 starting at 5 a.m. Sunday July 13, and are expected to last approximately one hour.
A slow roll is a traffic management operation where a traffic gap is created by reducing approaching traffic speeds to as low as 10 mph. The gap allows work to safely take place free of live traffic. Traffic can also be temporarily stopped and held by a lead vehicle in each lane. A slow roll operation typically lasts no more than 15 minutes at a time.
The slow rolls will alternate between northbound and southbound traffic as follows:
Northbound I-81 slow rolls will begin at the Stephens City exit, mile marker 307.3 and will require temporary closures of the on-ramps from exits 307, 310 and 313.
Southbound I-81 slow rolls will begin at the Virginia Welcome Center near Clear Brook, mile marker 319.9 and will require temporary closures of the on-ramps from exits 317, 315 and 313.
Digital message signs will advise drivers of the slow rolls and ramp closures.
All work is weather permitting.