CULPEPER – One southbound lane of Route 29 will be closed just south of Opal on Wednesday, Dec. 3 to allow utility companies to relocate overhead lines. The closure will begin at 9 a.m. and will be lifted by 2 p.m.

During the closure there may also be extremely brief periods, two to five minutes, when all southbound traffic is stopped while new cables are pulled into place and the old cables are removed. Motorists should expect congestion and brief delays while traveling through the area.

There will be additional similar lane closures during the coming months to relocate overhead utilities. This utility relocation work is being done in preparation for the construction of an interchange at the intersection of Route 29 and Route 17 at Opal. Construction of that project is scheduled to begin in late 2009.

VDOT offers the following tips for motorists to increase safety as they navigate highway work zones:

·         Stay alert. Expect anything to occur when entering a work zone.

·         Pay close attention. Signs and work zone flaggers save lives.

·         Turn on your headlights. Workers and other motorists must see you.

·         Don't tailgate. Unexpected stops frequently occur in work zones.

·         Don't speed. Note the speed limits in and around the work zone. Enhanced fines of up to $500 may be levied for speeding in a work zone.

·         Follow the signs. Orange signs with black lettering should alert you on the approach to a work zone. Expect changes in traffic patterns as the project progresses.

·         Keep up with traffic flow. Dedicate your full attention to the road and those traveling around you.

·         Don't change lanes in the work zone. The time saved just isn't worth it.

·         Minimize distractions. Avoid changing radio stations and using mobile phones in the work zone.

·         Expect the unexpected. Keep an eye out for workers and their equipment.

·         Be patient. Remember, the construction or maintenance crewmembers are working to improve your future ride.

·         Call 511. Receive up-to-the-minute traffic and weather information from any telephone in Virginia. Before you travel, log on to www.511Virginia.org for road and traffic conditions and weather updates.

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Information in VDOT news releases was accurate at the time the release was published. For the most current information about projects or programs, please visit the project or program Web pages. You may find those by searching by keyword in the search Virginia DOT box above.