VDOT on Schedule to Complete RT 29 Overpass by Summer

Four vehicles have come into contact with Norfolk Southern trains at the Lee Highway/Route 29 crossing in Gainesville over the past year.

In Jan. 2012, the Virginia Department of Transportation placed an electronic warning sign prior to the tracks; however, the permanent solution was always intended to be a new overpass that will circumvent the at-grade crossing.

According to VDOT, crews are working to complete the project by summer. (A video of what the Gainesville Interchange will look like when it is completed in 2015 is available here.)

“We are still on schedule this summer for the big traffic switch that will put an end to the at-grade crossing,” VDOT spokesperson Joan Morris said. “The message sign that was put in place has definitely improved safety at the crossing, especially during the evening rush hours when traffic is bumper to bumper.”

Active construction continues throughout the winter, with crews working until 3:30 p.m. Morris confirms. Crews will work until dark when spring arrives.

“ are out there and have been, pouring concrete, moving dirt,” Morris said.

She said that police and VDOT will continue to monitor the crossing until construction on the project is complete.