On June 11, the Virginia Department of Transportation begins the relocation of overhead and underground utilities at Route 29 (Lee Highway) and Gallows Road in preparation for a major makeover of this congested intersection located in the heart of Merrifield. The utility relocation phase is expected to take two and a half years to complete due to myriad pipes, wires and cables that run above and below the roadway. Half a dozen utilities – gas, water, electric, telephone, and fiber optic cable must be moved before actual roadway improvements can begin in early 2011.

Initial utility work will start on Gallows Road, north of Lee Highway. Motorists can expect daytime lane closures from 9:30 to 3 p.m. on weekdays. There will be no lane closures on weekends or holidays. On occasion there will be nighttime work and/or detours. VDOT has been meeting with the community and local officials in preparation for the improvement project. During the utility relocation and roadway construction, VDOT will keep the public informed in advance of lane closures and any detours through portable message signs, news releases and updates on www.virginiadot.org.

The $121 million, 1.5-mile pedestrian friendly project is being delivered by VDOT in collaboration with Fairfax County’s vision for commercial revitalization in Merrifield. The project consists of widening both Lee Highway and Gallows Road to six lanes, divided by a wide, raised median. When completed in 2013, the at-grade intersection will feature expanded turn and through lanes to ease congestion. Pedestrian friendly features include a multi-use trail, sidewalks, wider medians, and pedestrian countdown signals. # #

Page last modified: June 10, 2008