​Motorists Should Expect Temporary Lane Closures and Detours 

(August 20, 2026) – The Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration will close and detour the eastbound I-70 collector/distributor lane at the I-70/I-81 interchange ​in Washington County beginning 7 p.m. Saturday, August 22. The temporary closure and detour is necessary to reconfigure a part of the interchange. The temporary closure should be completed by 5 a.m. Monday, August 24, weather permitting. 

During the switch from Saturday night to Monday morning, eastbound I-70 left lane traffic will continue on I-70. The right lane will be split and detoured to southbound I-81 to exit 2, to northbound I-81, then to eastbound I-70 at exit 4 (ramp 4) onto the newly constructed roadway. 

Once the traffic shift is completed, the configuration will remain in place through the next phase of construction. Contractor Triton Construction, Inc. from St. Albans, WV. will perform the work. Motorists should plan extra travel time. Mainline traffic will not be impacted. Motorists will be guided by mounted signs, channelizing devices and message boards. 

The State Highway Administration is Serious About Safety. Pedestrians and motorists are urged to remain alert and avoid distractions when traveling through the work zone. Motorists should obey all posted speed limits. Motorists can dial #77 on their mobile devices for roadside assistance.