A public hearing has been set for Tuesday on the state's proposal to construct an additional truck-climbing lane on Interstate 81 through Montgomery County.

The Virginia Department of Transportation's plan is to add one truck lane on the interstate's southbound side between mileposts 119 and 128. Three bridges would need to be rebuilt to add the lane.

The public hearing is set for 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Falling Branch Elementary School in Christiansburg. VDOT representatives will answer questions and explain the project.

Written comments about the project may be submitted at the meeting or until June 27 by mail to Richard Caywood, Virginia Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 3071, Salem, VA 24153. E-mail comments can be sent to saleminfo@VDOT.virginia.gov and should include "I-81 truck climbing lanes Montgomery County PH comments" in the subject line.

-- The Roanoke Times