ROANOKE, Va. – If you’ve traveled on U.S. 220 or Route 419 near Tanglewood in South Roanoke County, you’re likely familiar with how congested those corridors can get.
Motorists are getting the chance this evening to ask the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) about its plans for the corridors, with major work set to begin soon on the highways.
Mary Prillaman, one of the thousands of drivers who pass through the interchange of 220 and 419 each day, shared her experiences.
“Right here in front of Lowe’s and Home Depot, it gets really congested,” she said, pointing to the highway. “This exit also really gets backed up in the mornings.”
VDOT’s plans to improve traffic flow on both the 220 and 419 corridors are part of a set of major projects. One significant change involves converting the 220 and 419 interchange into a diverging diamond interchange, similar to those near Valley View Mall or Virginia Tech.
It’s a kind of X-pattern where traffic crosses over temporarily to the opposite side of the road.
VDOT spokesperson Jason Bond explained the benefits: “The benefits of a diverging diamond interchange are really about enhancing safety and traffic flow at an interchange. By reducing what we consider conflict points, which is where vehicles have the opportunity to cross paths in an interchange or intersection, we can improve safety.”
Additionally, several intersections on both highways will become known as thru cuts. This will reroute traffic that normally drives straight across 419 or 220 to turn right and make a U-turn at the next intersection.
“By rerouting just a small amount of traffic at some of these intersections, we can see a tremendous benefit in reducing congestion and reducing delays for drivers,” Bond added.
As expected, the extensive work over several years may cause some traffic disruptions. However, VDOT plans to conduct the work during off-hours to minimize the impact.
“What folks can expect throughout the life of this project is some nighttime work, some nighttime lane closures on Route 220 and Route 419. There also may be some times overnight when traffic at intersections may have to be rerouted,” Bond noted.
The projects, which total around $25 million, are expected to be completed in 2028.