Hurricane Evacuation Guide

Hurricane Gates on Interstate 64

Where Are the Gates?

Gates are located on the eastbound ramps along I-64 from just before the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel to Interstate 295 in Richmond for use as part of the I-64 lane reversal if one is called by the governor.

Other gates are strategically located at various westbound ramps in the Hampton Roads area for use in phased evacuations.

Why Did VDOT Install the Gates?

   Hurricane gate on I-64

In the event of a hurricane or other disaster, the governor can order an interstate lane reversal to help evacuate Hampton Roads.

Should this occur, all lanes on I-64 will carry westbound traffic.

The gates were installed to prevent motorists from trying to enter the interstate traveling east when traffic is reversed and motorists are moving west in all lanes.

Why Are There Gates on Either Side of the Ramp?

There are gates on either side of each ramp to make sure the ramps are completely inaccessible when closed. This prevents motorists from driving on shoulders to go around gates.

Why Are the Gates at Both Ends of the Ramp?

The gates are at both ends of the ramp so vehicles traveling in the reversed eastbound lanes (heading west toward Richmond) cannot exit the interstate using these blocked ramps and cause an accident on the connecting roadways.

Having the gates positioned at both ends of the ramp provides a final measure to prevent motorists from getting on the interstate heading east while traffic is moving west.

If the Gates Are Down, How Do I Get Off the Interstate?

There will be only two exits for reversed traffic before I-295:

• Exit 234 in Williamsburg (where services include gas, food, lodging and a hospital)
  
  
• Exit 205 at Bottoms Bridge (where services include gas and food)

If motorists exit the reversed I-64 lanes, they can use a standard entry ramp to return to I-64 West. There are no re-entry ramps onto the reversed lanes.

A comfort station will also be in place at Jefferson Avenue. There, citizens can rest, use the restroom and get water.

In addition, the two New Kent safety rest areas will be open.

Who Will Monitor the Exits and Roadway During the Evacuation?

VDOT, Virginia State Police and Virginia Army National Guard personnel will be at each of the ramps and at the Jefferson Avenue comfort station.

They also will be at the two safety rest areas on I-64 in New Kent County.

VDOT’s Safety Service Patrol will monitor I-64 during an evacuation to assist motorists who break down on the interstate.


  
For information about how to prepare for all types of emergencies, visit ReadyVirginia.gov.