Big Changes At Atlee-Elmont Begin Next Week

July 14, 2004

Beginning next week, motorists entering and exiting I-95 at the new Atlee-Elmont interchange (Exit 86) will have to deal with major changes as the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) begins moving traffic to new ramps in phases and removing old ramps.

The first two phases will take place July 19-23. Relocated Sliding Hill Road (about a quarter-mile north of the current interchange) will be opened from Atlee Station Road to U.S. Rt. 1 and on-ramps to I-95 north will be opened. Motorists trying to get on I-95 south will need to follow posted detour signs or choose an alternate route.

Existing Sliding Hill Road, which will be renamed Kings Acres Road once the new interchange is completed, will be closed to westbound traffic east of I-95 and the existing northbound on-ramp to I-95 will be closed.

In phase two, the existing off-ramp from I-95 south onto Sliding Hill Road ("Kings Acres Road") will be closed and new ramps to Relocated Sliding Hill Road will be opened.

Future phases will begin in August. A map of the new configuration can be seen here.

VDOT notes that during all phases there may be additional lane closures and traffic shifts. Motorists are encouraged to use caution and be alert when driving through this area.

"As this project enters its final stage, it will be very important for commuters and others who use this interchange regularly to pay attention and to plan ahead and allow a little extra time as everyone adjusts to the new traffic patterns," said Rob Crandol, Ashland Resident Engineer for VDOT. "VDOT has certainly appreciated the patience of residents in this area and ask for their continued patience as we complete this project."

VDOT expects the new Atlee-Elmont interchange to be completed in the fall of 2004. In addition to the construction of the new cloverleaf interchange and new Sliding Hill Road, the project involves the construction of nine new bridges.

For more information about this project, log on to www.VirginiaDOT.org.