RICHMOND, VA — Governor Glenn Youngkin recently broke ground on the I-64 Gap Widening Project, which will increase capacity and mobility, alleviate congestion, improve safety, and enhance connectivity along the I-64 corridor.

“Transportation drives commerce, economic growth, and connects Virginians across the Commonwealth,” Youngkin said. “Through continued investments in our local and regional communities, the I-64 Widening Project will help unlock the corridor to unify the Richmond and Hampton Roads regions and enhance job opportunities and economic prosperity. We’ve only just broken ground on the project, and we’re already seeing companies make significant investments along the corridor.”

The project, with an overall budget of $756 million, involves expanding the corridor from two lanes to three lanes with 10-foot-wide paved shoulders in both directions. Upon completion, this project will connect the Port of Virginia with the rest of the state and nation, driving economic opportunity across the Commonwealth. It will also make travel and tourism easier for families and ensure continued connectivity for Virginia’s critical defense community. The economic impact of this project will be significant, with companies like Buc-ee’s and Auto Zone already expanding along the corridor.

“Adding a third lane in each direction of the I-64 Gap will provide a more efficient and safer connection between Richmond and Hampton Roads,” Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) Commissioner Stephen Brich said. “VDOT is laser-focused on opening this corridor and delivering this and every project on time and on budget."

The project has been divided into three sections of I-64, labeled Segments A, B, and C, with each being constructed as an operationally independent project. Shirley Contracting Company, LLC along with Dewberry Engineers, Inc. have been awarded the design-build contract for Segment A which will be administered by VDOT’s Richmond District. The completion of all three segments is anticipated in spring 2028.

Throughout the construction phase, efforts will be made to ensure the continued availability of two lanes of traffic in both directions, minimizing disruptions to the traveling public.