Route 17 intersection work begins in Gloucester County with overnight lane closures

Construction began Sunday, August 2, on two Route 17 intersection improvements in Gloucester County, creating a long-running work zone for commuters, freight operators, shoppers and businesses along the corridor.

The Virginia Department of Transportation and contractor Branscome Operating LLC are working at Route 17 and Fox First Street and at Route 17 and The Shoppes at Gloucester. The $5.1 million project is funded through Virginia’s SMART SCALE program and is anticipated to continue through June 2027.

Restricted U-turns are being rebuilt

VDOT is reconstructing and modifying the existing restricted crossing U-turns, or RCUTs, at both intersections. The agency says the changes are intended to improve alignment with the side streets and reduce crash risk.

Left turns out from the side streets will continue to be prohibited. Drivers using the two intersections should expect access patterns to change as construction progresses, even though the project does not create that existing restriction.

Most traffic shifts planned overnight

VDOT says most lane closures and potential traffic shifts will occur overnight during off-peak hours to limit travel impacts. That does not mean every construction-related effect will be limited to overnight periods.

Message boards are being posted to give motorists advance notice of the work zone. Drivers should slow down, use caution and watch for changing conditions between the two intersections. VDOT reports that about 27,000 vehicles travel Route 17 in this area each day.

Extended effect on the Route 17 corridor

The project’s anticipated duration means drivers may encounter changing lane arrangements and work-zone activity over many months. Nearby businesses may also see changes in traffic flow or access conditions, although the available project information does not quantify impacts for individual businesses.

For current lane-closure and work-zone information, motorists should check VDOT updates and 511 Virginia before traveling through the area. Construction is active, and the anticipated completion date remains June 2027.

Sources

• Virginia Department of Transportation construction announcement
• Gloucester-Mathews Gazette-Journal report