Major Henrico Road Construction to Continue Through 2026

Old Washington Highway to Close for Utility Relocation Project

A key stretch of roadway in Henrico County is scheduled for a temporary closure, impacting daily commutes. Officials have announced a planned shutdown of Old Washington Highway to facilitate a critical infrastructure upgrade.

Closure Details and Duration

The closure will affect Old Washington Highway between Darbytown Road and the I-64 overpass. The road is set to be completely inaccessible to all through traffic starting Monday, April 15, at 7:00 a.m. The work is currently projected to last for approximately two weeks, with the roadway expected to reopen by Friday, April 26, weather permitting.

Purpose of the Project

The shutdown is necessary to allow crews to safely relocate major underground utility lines. This preparatory work is a foundational step for a forthcoming, larger-scale road construction project aimed at improving long-term traffic flow and safety in the area. Workers will need full, unimpeded access to the roadbed to complete this complex phase of the operation.

Official Guidance for Drivers

Transportation authorities are urging motorists to plan ahead and allow for extra travel time. While a formal, signed detour will be established, officials suggest that drivers familiar with the area may wish to use alternate routes like Route 5, New Market Road, or Nine Mile Road to bypass the work zone. Local access for residents and businesses within the closure zone will be maintained, but through traffic must follow the posted detour.

“We understand this closure will be an inconvenience, and we appreciate the public’s patience as we complete this essential work,” a county infrastructure spokesperson stated. “This utility relocation is a crucial investment in the area’s future transportation network.”

Looking Ahead

This utility project is just the first phase of planned improvements for the corridor. The successful completion of this work will pave the way for subsequent construction stages, which are designed to modernize the roadway and enhance connectivity for the growing community. BNN will continue to monitor the project and provide updates on any changes to the schedule.

What do you think?

• Should local governments be required to offer financial compensation to businesses that lose significant revenue due to long-term road closures?


• Is a two-week full closure more or less disruptive than months of single-lane traffic and intermittent delays?


• Do you believe most drivers will heed official detours, or will neighborhood side streets bear the brunt of the redirected traffic?


• With infrastructure aging across the country, are we as a society too tolerant of disruptive construction, or not tolerant enough to fund necessary upgrades?