Studies

Interstate 81 Exit 80 Interchange Alternative Study

Strategically Targeted and Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) Study

Project at a Glance

Begin Date
Spring 2023

Phase
Study Phase

Locality
Wythe

District
Bristol

Contact
Samantha Farmer, Bristol District Planning Specialist
276-696-3280

What's Being Done?

A study began in early 2023 to further evaluate the Interstate 81 exit 80 area in Wythe County. 

The purpose of the study is to:

• Evaluate how traffic moves through the interstate ramps and intersections near the ramps, as well as evaluate safety conditions in these areas.
• Develop potential improvement projects to enhance safety and traffic operations in the study area.
• Consider innovative intersection/interchange designs.
• Improve access along the ramps and intersections.
• Identify improvements that can be advanced to funding in VDOT's Six-Year Improvement Program.

A study survey will be offered to the public in late 2023/early 2024.

History:
In December 2020, VDOT performed a Strategically Targeted and Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) Study of the Interstate 81 Exit 77 and Exit 80 interchanges. Two survey opportunities were offered to the public during the study (March 1-21, 2021, and December 6, 2021 - January 3, 2022).

The exit 77 component of the study was finalized and any improvement to exit 77 are based on future funding.