VDOT has temporarily closed the median crossover at the intersection of Routes 17 and 610 at Woods Cross Roads during the daytime hours, while work is underway.
The temporary closures began Wednesday and continue through Friday, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation.
Between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. on those days, crews will close the median crossover to keep drivers and workers safe during construction to modify the intersection. Work has been scheduled to occur weather permitting.
During the crossover closure, drivers on Woods Cross Road or Davenport Road (Route 610) will be directed to turn right and U-turn from existing Route 17 crossovers near the intersection to continue travel in their desired direction. Travelers on Route 17 will be prohibited from making left turns onto Woods Cross Road and Davenport Road during this time.
Crews will be operating large, heavy equipment in the crossover area through Friday. The temporary presence of equipment in this area will restrict motorist sight distance. Closing the crossover for these limited hours is necessary to ensure a safe line of sight for drivers turning onto Route 17. Work will occur during Spring Break for Gloucester County Public Schools to avoid affecting school transportation routes.
Construction on the $5.1 million intersection safety project began on Monday, March 24 and will be completed in December.
When the project is completed, drivers on Woods Cross Road or Davenport Road seeking to turn left onto Route 17 will begin by making a right turn, and will then U-turn at new, designated locations that are approximately 700 feet from the existing intersection. Route 17 travelers will be able to make left turns onto Woods Cross Road or Davenport Road as part of the final traffic pattern. After Friday, the crossover will reopen, and construction crews and equipment will be working in another area within the work zone. During summer 2025, the crossover will close again for construction activity and will remain closed until the project is completed in December.
Starting Monday, Route 17 will be reduced from four travel lanes to two through the work zone for approximately two months. Crews need the long-term lane closures to safely advance work near live traffic. Route 17 travelers should anticipate delays through June 2025 with only one lane of Route 17 open in each direction near the intersection. The median crossover at Woods Cross Road and Davenport Road will remain open during the long-term lane closures.
VDOT monitors traffic conditions closely in its work zones. Traffic control devices such as signs, pavement markings, barrels and lane configurations will be adjusted as needed to prioritize the safety of travelers and workers, a release stated.
Additional information can be found on the project page at vdot.virginia.gov.