VDOT Working With Construction Contractors to Decrease Collisions Along I-81 Work Zones

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is working with a construction contractor along I-81 between exits 137 and 141 to decrease the number of crashes, which have led to traffic backups along the highway stretch. They are looking at installing a system with flashing beacons on the truck entering highway signs at exit 140 and putting some lighting on the barricade walls. Exceeding the posted speed limit appears to be a contributing factor for many of the crashes that have occurred in the work zone. VDOT is coordinating with Virginia State Police for some enhanced enforcement options.