A stretch of the I-66 express lanes that was originally slated to launch in December is now expected to open this month, according to the Virginia Department of Transportation.
The new westbound section, which is expected to be operational on November 19, will run from the Beltway to Route 28. The eastbound lanes in that same stretch, meanwhile, are expected to open later this month, part of a phased opening VDOT officials hoped would provide commuters a better opportunity to adjust to the new traffic patterns.
The imminent opening marks the latest development in a $3.7 billion road-widening construction project designed to relieve the heavily congested, 22.5-mile stretch of highway. Finishing touches on the project are expected later this month, which will mark an on-time conclusion to a project that kicked off five years ago.
As part of the new system, three non-toll lanes will continue to operate on both sides of the highway. These will be joined, on both eastbound and westbound sides, by two high-occupancy toll — or, HOT — lanes that will connect with the peak-direction toll lanes that were unveiled in 2017.
Like before, motorists will be able to select from the three free lanes or the new HOT lanes, which will adjust in price based on traffic conditions. Motorcyclists, buses, and carpoolers will still be able to access the lanes for free.
One significant change is the requirement of a second passenger — a total of three vehicle occupants — to qualify for the free high-occupancy vehicle rules. Just one passenger was previously required.
In all, a total of 63 bridges and overpasses and 12 interchanges have been built during the expansive construction project.
Feature image courtesy FAM Construction.
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