NEWPORT NEWS/SUFFOLK – The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is finalizing work to enhance safety and efficiency at the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel (MMMBT) through the addition of new lane-use signals. Motorists traveling on I-664 at the MMMBT will begin to see updates to the colored signals mounted on gantries across the roadway starting Nov. 21.

Instrumental to bridge-tunnel operations and traffic management, these upgraded signals aim to improve motorist notification on the current status and availability of a given lane to allow for smoother merging and traffic flow, ultimately easing congestion and clearing incidents faster.  

While VDOT’s new signal system at the MMMBT will retain the traditional green, yellow and red lighting colors, these colors will be incorporated into new symbols such as an arrow and “X” to give an indication of lane conditions ahead. During the implementation of the new signals anticipated to take place over the next several weeks, motorists will also see the use of green, yellow and red balls on some of the overhead signals. These indicators will function in the same manner as the other symbols based on color.

A green downward arrow or green ball indicates that the specific lane is available for use.

A yellow “X” or yellow ball indicates the specific lane will soon close, and the motorist should safely change lanes.

A red “X” or red ball indicates the lane is closed.

VDOT currently uses this system of lane use signals on various roadways across the Commonwealth, including on I-264 in Virginia Beach.

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