Getting Around town

 Hampton Roads is a sprawling area that connects several cities, including Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Newport News, Hampton, Portsmouth, and Suffolk. Its highway system features bridges, tunnels, and interstates that are vital for getting around. Here’s a breakdown of the major highways and how they serve the area.

Known as the region’s main artery, I-64 is essential for traveling east and west through Hampton Roads.

• Key Uses: Links Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake to Newport News, Hampton, and Williamsburg.
• Challenges: Traffic congestion is common during rush hours and summer weekends, especially near the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT).

The HRBT connects Hampton and Norfolk via I-64 and is one of the busiest travel corridors in the area.

• Tip: Check real-time traffic updates before heading out. Alternative routes include the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel (I-664).
•  Military Access: The HRBT is a crucial route for those commuting between Hampton’s Joint Base Langley-Eustis and Naval Station Norfolk. 

A north-south interstate that serves as a vital alternative to I-64.

• Key Features: Includes the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge-Tunnel, which is less crowded than the HRBT.
• Best For: Traveling between Newport News and Suffolk.

Connecting Portsmouth and Norfolk, these two tunnels are lifelines for daily commuters.

• Toll Alert: Both tunnels have tolls, so consider using an E-ZPass to save time and money.
• Fun Fact: The Midtown Tunnel is the longest underwater tunnel in the United States.
• Military Access: These routes are frequently used by personnel heading to Norfolk Naval Shipyard or Naval Station Norfolk.

This highway runs east-west through Norfolk and Virginia Beach, making it a key route for beachgoers.

• Best For: Getting to the Virginia Beach Oceanfront or downtown Norfolk.
•  Military Access: Convenient for reaching Naval Air Station Oceana and Dam Neck Annex. 

A connector highway that links Chesapeake to Norfolk, providing quick access to I-264 and I-64.

In addition to the interstates, U.S. Routes 17 and 58 are important corridors for travel across Hampton Roads and beyond.

• Best For: Avoiding interstate congestion and exploring local neighborhoods.

Hampton Roads is home to a large military population, with several major installations throughout the region. Here are some tips for navigating to and accessing military bases:

1. Have Proper Identification: Military bases require valid IDs for entry. Ensure you and your passengers are prepared with military IDs or visitor passes.
2. Know the Gate Hours: Most bases have multiple gates, with varying operating hours. Plan your route to avoid unnecessary detours.
3. Check for Traffic Updates: Bases like Naval Station Norfolk and Joint Base Langley-Eustis often experience heavy traffic during peak commute times.
4. Use Alternate Routes: For bases near congested areas, explore secondary routes like U.S. Route 17 or 58 to avoid delays.
5. Nearby Highways for Major Bases:
   • Naval Station Norfolk: Accessible via I-64, I-264, and the Midtown or Downtown Tunnels.
   • Joint Base Langley-Eustis: Best accessed via I-64 or U.S. Route 17 in Hampton/Newport News.
   • Naval Air Station Oceana: Located off I-264 and central to Virginia Beach.