News Summary
Major lane closures on I-495 will affect traffic patterns in Virginia and Maryland this week due to the I-495 Express Lanes Northern Extension project. Starting Sunday, significant lane changes will occur nightly from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., aiming to improve traffic flow. Drivers can expect delays as crews work on essential maintenance and installation tasks. The project is a part of a larger $660 million initiative expected to complete by 2026, with stabilizing traffic conditions anticipated by mid-August.
Virginia – On Interstate 495 (I-495), major lane changes are set to affect traffic patterns in both Virginia and Maryland throughout this week, potentially causing delays for drivers until August 2. These adjustments are part of the I-495 Express Lanes Northern Extension (495 NEXT) project, which aims to enhance the traffic flow in the area.
The significant lane closures will begin on Sunday, impacting drivers from Cabin John Parkway to the American Legion Bridge along I-495. The closures will occur nightly from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. to allow crews to conduct essential sign work. Specifically, a triple left lane closure will be implemented on the southbound side of the highway, while a single left lane closure will take place for northbound traffic. Additionally, mobile lane closures will be in effect on both the Outer and Inner Loops between the Dulles Toll Road and the George Washington Memorial Parkway during the same hours for necessary maintenance work.
Recent lane changes have already commenced, affecting the stretch from Georgetown Pike to midway between Old Dominion Drive and Lewinsville Road. Drivers seeking detailed information about specific closures can refer to the Virginia Department of Transportation’s portal at 511.vdot.virginia.gov.
Project Overview
The I-495 Express Lanes Northern Extension project is a crucial part of a larger $660 million initiative designed to extend the I-495 Express Lanes by 2.5 miles. This extension will include new connections at both the Dulles Corridor and the George Washington Memorial Parkway. Construction for this project began back in March 2022, with an anticipated completion date set for 2026. The new express lanes are expected to open to the public by late 2025.
Traffic Disruptions
This weekend is forecasted to see significant traffic disruptions due to the anticipated installation of large steel bridge girders, a scenario referred to as “Big Beam Weekend.” During this period, northbound I-495 will be narrowed from six lanes to just two over a one-mile stretch near Tysons. As a result, traffic will experience shifts for approximately three miles, extending from the Route 7 interchange to just past Lewinsville Road.
In preparation for these disruptions, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has proactively installed warning messages on major roadways, including I-95 and I-81, to alert drivers of the upcoming changes ahead of time.
Conclusion
As construction continues on the I-495 Express Lanes Northern Extension project, it is crucial for drivers in Virginia and Maryland to stay informed about lane closures and potential delays. Understanding these changes can help commuters plan their routes accordingly and minimize travel disruptions during this busy construction period. By mid-August, traffic conditions are expected to stabilize, but for the time being, drivers are advised to remain cautious and pay attention to posted signage.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WTOP: I-495 Construction Lane Closures
- Wikipedia: I-495 (Virginia)
- Fox5 DC: Overturned Dump Truck Causes Delays
- Google Search: I-495 traffic updates
- WJLA: Fatal Crash on I-495
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic
- NBC Washington: Four Vehicle Crash on Beltway
- Google News: Virginia traffic alerts
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
