In response to persistent community concerns over traffic congestion at Exit 211 along Interstate 64 in New Kent County, local officials have announced plans to explore potential remedies. The issue has garnered attention due to the significant reduction of the exit lane, a consequence of ongoing highway improvements.
On the morning of August 31, County Supervisor Amy M. Pearson and Sheriff Lee Bailey issued a joint statement via social media, acknowledging the complaints about the heavily impacted interchange. The exit has been narrowed to a single lane as part of the Virginia Department of Transportation’s (VDOT) I-64 Gap Widening Project, which involves extensive bridge work, roadway expansion, and infrastructure upgrades.
To manage the altered traffic flow, VDOT has installed stoplights at all three approaches to the interchange, aiming to regulate the increased congestion. Despite this, Pearson, who travels through the area daily, stated she has not personally experienced the worst aspects of the complaints but expressed understanding of drivers’ frustrations. She emphasized that shutting down the exit entirely could pose safety risks, hindering emergency response times and access to nearby neighborhoods.
The governor of Virginia, Glenn Youngkin, highlighted the broader economic significance of the project when announcing a $20 million investment in late June to support transportation improvements at the interchange. The initiative is part of a larger effort to enhance the corridor, which is strategically linked to the Port of Virginia and serves as a conduit for economic growth, attracting over 2,000 jobs and billions in investments.
In addition to infrastructure upgrades, the project is expected to support new developments in the region, including distribution centers for major retailers like AutoZone and Target, as well as a Buc-ee’s travel center, fostering further economic expansion.
Sheriff Bailey has requested increased patrol presence at the interchange, instructing deputies to monitor the area closely and report incidents. He urged residents to report any issues to the sheriff’s office or emergency services to facilitate timely response and data collection.
Furthermore, county officials are considering additional traffic management measures, such as a dedicated turning lane from Emmaus Church Road to eastbound I-64, to alleviate backups near a local Burger King. Pearson mentioned plans to hold further discussions with VDOT and other stakeholders to identify effective solutions.
Residents are encouraged to report traffic incidents or safety concerns at the interchange by calling 911 or the non-emergency line at 804-966-9500. As the project progresses, community leaders remain committed to finding long-term solutions to ensure safety and improve traffic flow at this critical regional junction.