Abingdon, VDOT prepping drivers for exit construction work along Interstate 81

The town of Abingdon and the Virginia Department of Transportation is preparing drivers to be on the lookout for workers and equipment in two projects off Interstate 81.

Crews are currently staging work zone areas around Exit 17 for an interchange improvement project that will include on and off-ramp upgrades northbound, extending the exit’s southbound ramp, and reconstructing Gravel Lake Road.

Two miles away at Exit 19, workers will conduct utility work during the day and road construction on Route 11 at night which includes realigning Empire Drive, installing signal lights, and widening a curve along the southbound off-ramp.

Both projects are scheduled to be completed in 2022.

(IMAGE: GM)