VDOT tells Smyth County supervisors Exit 45 V‑cell lane, roundabout and several bridge projects are underway

VDOT area representative Matthew Lewis told the Smyth County Board of Supervisors that crews have largely finished winter clean‑up and are moving into paving and shoulder work, and reviewed several major projects affecting the county.

“Pothole patching, dead animal and litter removal and shoulder work are ongoing,” Lewis said, adding that the Exit 45 northbound V‑cell lane extension is under construction and is expected to be completed around December 2027. He also confirmed a design‑build contract has been awarded for a roundabout on Route 11 and estimated completion in the 2027–2028 timeframe. Lewis listed other projects in development, including multiple bridge rehabs and a rehabilitation on a bridge at Exit 50/Nicks Creek.

Supervisors pressed VDOT on specifics for routes in their districts, asked which sections will receive plant‑mix or latex resurfacing and whether bridge widening will occur; Lewis said primary routes will see segment work while many secondary routes are likely to receive full‑route treatment. VDOT staff said they will provide route cut sheets and updated completion dates on request.

VDOT also described coordination plans to combine ditch, shoulder and drainage work with paving operations to avoid repeated disruptions and to maximize the use of limited crews and equipment. A public hearing on the secondary 6‑year plan was scheduled for May 14 as part of the county’s planning calendar.