SHENANDOAH COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — Construction along I-81 near exit 269 in Shenandoah County is expected to cause traffic congestion starting this weekend.

The Virginia Department of Transportation will be performing critical bridge deck rehabilitation work on the southbound bridge over the North Fork of the Shenandoah River.

Single-lane closures will occur continuously over two sets of approximately 72 hours, beginning with the right lane of southbound I-81, which is scheduled to be closed from 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 4, until 4 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6. The left lane of southbound I-81 is scheduled to be closed from 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 11, until 4 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13. VDOT plans for this to be around-the-clock work during both nighttime and daytime hours. All work is weather permitting, and depending on work progress and temperatures, the lane closures may extend into Wednesday morning.

VDOT is warning all motorists to expect major delays due to these lane closures.

Students in Shenandoah County Schools can also expect major delays, especially those who attend Ashby-Lee Elementary School, North Fork Middle School, Stonewall Jackson High School, Massanutten Regional Governor’s School, and Triplett Tech, the anticipated traffic congestion caused by the lane closures could stretch into Edinburg and even Woodstock.

Buses traveling to and from Shenandoah County Schools will have to be rerouted, and delays are expected. Make sure to give yourself extra time when traveling and be aware of posted signs and possible detours through the construction zone.