Project Announcement - Exit 16 DDI to become Operational in Coming Weeks
Traffic Patterns Set to Change in the Coming Weeks as the Exit 16 Diverging Diamond Interchange Opens
DATE: Wednesday, September 2, 2026
Vermont’s first Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI) at I-89 Exit 16 in Colchester is designed to improve mobility, reduce congestion, and enhance safety for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians along the US Routes 2/7 corridor, with traffic scheduled to transition to the new traffic pattern in the coming weeks. Additional updates will be issued as this traffic pattern change approaches.
The new traffic pattern briefly shifts vehicles to the left side of the roadway as they travel through the interchange. This design allows drivers turning left onto interstate entrance ramps to do so without crossing oncoming traffic. Once through the interchange, traffic returns to the normal right side of the roadway. Traffic signals will control both crossover points.
- Approach the DDI and choose whether to enter I-89 or continue on U.S. Routes 2/7.
- Cross to the left side of the roadway at the first signalized intersection.
- Pedestrians and bicyclists use the shared-use path and designated crosswalks to travel safely through the interchange.
- Choose your route again, either entering I-89 or continuing on U.S. Routes 2/7.
- Cross back to the right side of the roadway at the second signalized intersection.
- Drivers exiting I-89 who wish to turn left remain on the left side, allowing for simpler left turns and convenient U-turns to re-enter I-89.
The Exit 16 DDI Project Team will be available at the Champlain Valley Fair from September 2 through September 6 to answer questions, provide project updates, and address concerns about the upcoming traffic changes.
Visitors can also try the project's driving simulator and experience the future interchange before the new traffic pattern is implemented later this month.
Be sure to stop by for project information, giveaways, and other fun promotional items. We will be located in the North Expo of the Robert E Miller Expo Centre. We look forward to seeing you there!
What is a Diverging Diamond Interchange?
A Diverging Diamond Interchange, or DDI, is an innovative, modern interchange design that can relieve traffic congestion and improve safety for drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians.
Key Benefits
- Improves safety by reducing conflict points where vehicles can collide.
- Reduces congestion because left-turning vehicles move more freely.
- Increases traffic throughput by allowing traffic signals to operate more efficiently and eliminating the need for protected left-turn signal phases.
- Lowers fuel consumption and delays by reducing time spent waiting at signals.
- Reduces wrong-way highway entries through the use of raised channelizing islands.
- Enhances pedestrian and bicycle safety with shorter crossing distances and clearly defined travel paths.
A DDI temporarily shifts traffic to the opposite side of the road so left turns onto interstate ramps can occur without crossing oncoming traffic. This creates a safer, more efficient interchange that moves more vehicles through the area with fewer delays.
For More Information and Resources
Visit the Exit 16 DDI Project Website for:
- A detailed project overview
- An interactive map of project limits
- Educational resources on how to navigate a DDI
- Answers to frequently asked questions
Interested in staying informed? Sign up for the project's email list to receive future updates and announcements, or contact the project team directly to be added to the distribution list.
Project Resources