Construction to begin on the Wythe Creek Road (Route 172) widening project

POQUOSON / HAMPTON — Starting as early as Monday, March 18, contractor crews with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) are scheduled to begin construction activities on a roadway improvements project encompassing a portion of Wythe Creek Road (Route 172) in Poquoson and Hampton. The project is designed to support emergency evacuation and accommodate future traffic volumes between these two cities.  

Specific project improvements include:

• widening Wythe Creek Road between Langley Boulevard and Carys Chapel Road from two lanes to three, with the inclusion of a new reversible travel lane 
• construction of a new higher elevation 1,545-foot bridge over the Northwest Branch Back River between Poquoson and Hampton  
• installation of a new signal at the intersection of Cary’s Chapel Road and modification of the existing signals at the Voyager Drive and Langley Boulevard intersections,  
• repurposing of the existing roadway over the causeway to a sidewalk/multi-use path and new sidewalks on both sides of Wythe Creek Road in Poquoson to provide continuous pedestrian access within the project area, and 
• installation of additional street lighting and improved roadway drainage.  

During construction, motorists may encounter traffic shifts and lane closures on Wythe Creek Road and Carys Chapel Road. Access to all businesses and residential properties will be maintained at all times. Marine access on Northwest Branch Back River will be maintained at all times. 

The $53.8 million construction contract was awarded to Bryant Structures, Inc. in February 2024. Construction is estimated to be complete as early as fall 2027. All work is weather- and schedule-dependent; therefore, this schedule is subject to change. 

For more information on the project or to sign up for project and traffic updates, visit the VDOT website at Wythe Creek Road (Route 172) widening project.