NEWS & EVENTS

Read about what’s happening in today’s news that affects your daily commute.   We’ve consolidated a collection of the latest articles about transportation and commuter related trends and challenges faced by Washington area commuters.  Be sure to check back on a regular basis to keep tabs on the most up to date news.

Visit our construction projects section and learn about upcoming road improvements taking place around the Washington region.  Anticipate roadwork delays and avoid the snarls to stay ahead of the construction curve.

Find out about upcoming events that pertain to commuting in the Washington metropolitan region and read recent Commuter Connections press releases.

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Upcoming Events

GIVE FEEDBACK ON I-95/ROUTE 123 INTERCHANGE STUDY

Online presentation and survey open through April 19; learn more at virginiadot.org/WoodbridgeStars 

WOODBRIDGE – The Virginia Department of Transportation is asking users of I-95 and Route 123 in Woodbridge to give feedback on potential improvements being evaluated for the I-95 and Route 123 interchange as identified in the I-95 Corridor Improvement Plan.

The study is assessing reconfiguring ramps, extending lanes, modifying and relocating traffic signals, access management, and pedestrian, bicycle and transit enhancements to improve traffic flow and safety. At the interchange, I-95 averages up to 232,000 vehicles a day and Route 123 (Gordon Boulevard) averages up to 71,000.

In lieu of an in-person presentation, VDOT invites residents and travelers to learn more and share feedback from home. View the presentation online to learn about draft alternatives that have been developed for the I-95 and Route 123 interchange, and give input and comments by taking the online survey through April 19.

The presentation and survey (also available in Spanish) and more study details are available at virginiadot.org/WoodbridgeStars. Comments can also be sent to meetingcomments@vdot.virginia.gov or to Ms. Angel Tao, P.E., Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.

Please note that these studies do not set construction dates for any improvements, but develop proposed improvements that localities can pursue for funding.

Potential safety and operational improvements are also being studied for the adjacent intersections at Route 123 and Old Bridge Road, as well as Route 1 and Route 123. Opportunities to learn more and comment on these studies will be coming later this spring.

All of these studies are being completed through VDOT’s Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) program that aims to identify cost-effective measures to improve safety and reduce congestion. The final studies are expected to be complete and posted online this summer.

View this release online.

 

Bike to Work Day

Registration is now open for the region’s 20th Anniversary Bike to Work Day. Join us at pit stops in DC, MD, and VA for this FREE event for a healthy and safe way to start your day. Even if you’ll still be working from home in May, get exercise by biking to a T-shirt Pickup Point (pit stop)  and then back home to work for the day. The first 15,000 who register and arrive at a pit stop by bike will receive a FREE T-shirt. Staggered hours and a strict COVID policy will be in place.

Public Invited to Provide Input on I-495 American Legion Bridge Transit and TDM Recommendations

The Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT) and the Maryland Department of Transportation Maryland Transit Administration (MDOT MTA) have compiled the findings and recommendations for the I-495 American Legion Bridge Transit and Transportation Demand Management (TDM) study. The agencies are seeking public input on the draft recommendations for multimodal improvements along the corridor during a public comment period that is open through February 1, 2021. Additionally, DRPT will host a Virtual Public Meeting on January 12, to provide a full briefing on recommendations, answer questions, and accept live public comment.

DRPT and MDOT-MTA have jointly managed and funded the study. The overall goals are to prioritize transit options and transportation demand management strategies that address bi-state travel across the American Legion Bridge.

“The Commonwealth is partnering with Maryland to address one of our country’s most congested corridors,” said Virginia Secretary of Transportation Shannon Valentine. “Secretary Slater and I share a commitment to delivering multimodal solutions that will create more seamless mobility throughout the region for decades to come.”

“The American Legion Bridge is a critical corridor for the region’s continued growth, and this joint study has been a great collaboration between Maryland and Virginia,” said Maryland Department of Transportation Secretary Greg Slater. “These draft recommendations are vital to reducing significant traffic congestion and improving the quality of life for Marylanders and Virginians traveling across the Potomac River.”

December 21, 2020 – February 1, 2021, Public Comment Period:

  • Online Form
  • (703) 253-3324
  • Mailing Address: DRPT Attn: Ciara Williams. 1725 Duke Street, Suite 675. Alexandria, VA 22314

January 12, 2020 (7:00 p.m.) Virtual Public Meeting:

  • Register here
  • Provide public comment at the conclusion of the presentation

“The potential improvements were determined by evaluating the travel markets between Maryland and Virginia and studying a number of transit routes, technology, and commuter assistance options,” stated Director of the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation, Jennifer Mitchell. “The resulting recommendations focus on maximizing ridership in relation to cost, providing meaningful connections to areas with low income and minority populations, creating access to jobs, and connecting people to those jobs.”

“Improving mobility across the region is critical to expanding access to employment, education, and housing,” said MDOT Maryland Transit Administration Administrator Kevin Quinn. “Transit is an important mobility solution that provides connectivity between regions.”  

This study complements the ongoing work with the I-495 NEXT project and Maryland’s Managed Lanes Study and is intended to identify a range of current and future multimodal solutions that can be implemented to reduce congestion, improve trip reliability and regional connections, and enhance existing and planned multimodal mobility and connectivity. In selecting the recommended potential improvements, the study examined the overall forecasted effect on reducing congestion, the economic benefits of proposed transit connections, and the projected cost of implementing the improvements. Public comment will be used to finalize the recommendations, which will inform potential future investments in transit in the I-495/American Legion Bridge corridor.

Learn About And Provide INPUT ON I-495 AMERICAN LEGION BRIDGE TRANSIT & TRANSPORTATION DEMAND MANAGEMENT STUDY AND I-495 EXPRESS LANES NORTHERN EXTENSION PROJECT

Virginia to hold virtual public meeting, Wednesday, November 18, 7-9 p.m.

Virginia's Department of Rail and Public Transportation (DRPT), in partnership with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), will hold a virtual public information meeting on Wednesday, November 18, from 7 until 9 p.m. to provide information and answer questions about Virginia and Maryland's effort to study multimodal transportation options aimed to reduce congestion, improve trip reliability and regional connections, and enhance existing and planned multimodal mobility and connectivity on I-495 and the American Legion Bridge. DRPT will provide a briefing and overview of draft recommendations on this I-495 American Legion Bridge Transit and Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Study, which is being conducted jointly by DRPT and the Maryland Transit Administration.

VDOT will also provide updates on its proposed I-495 Express Lanes Northern Extension (495 NEXT) Project, which would extend the 495 Express Lanes by about three miles from near the Dulles Toll Road and I-495 interchange to the George Washington Memorial Parkway in the vicinity of the American Legion Bridge.

MEETING DETAILS AND HOW TO PARTICIPATE

VIRTUAL PUBLIC MEETING

Wednesday, November 18, 2020

7 - 9 p.m. (presentations begin at 7 p.m., followed by a question and answer session)

JOIN THROUGH WEBEX

Join the meeting directly through Webex by using this link.

Meeting number (access code): 178 792 0785

Event password: rEbyC2Cc7J5

JOIN BY PHONE

+1-517-466-2023 US Toll

+1-866-692-4530 US Toll Free

Access code: 178 792 0785

TAP TO JOIN FROM A MOBILE DEVICE

+1-517-466-2023,,1787920785 ## US Toll

+1-866-692-4530,,1787920785 ## US Toll Free

WATCH ON YOUTUBE

The meeting will be streamed on YouTube at VDOT Live. This option does not allow participants to ask questions.

IMPORTANT NOTES

·     Find additional meeting details and updates at DRPT.Virginia.gov and 495NorthernExtension.org, or by calling 571-454-4340.

·     The meeting will be recorded and posted online the following day.

·     If joining the meeting through WebEx, you are encouraged to download and install the Webex Meetings app or the Webex extension for Chrome. (FYI: some work laptops will not allow this.)

PUBLIC INVITED TO TAKE SURVEY FOR ROUTE 1 MULTIMODAL STUDY

Share input on current travel in the vicinity of Crystal City and Pentagon City

ARLINGTON – The Virginia Department of Transportation invites residents and users of Route 1 to take a short survey to help shape a feasibility study of potential future multimodal improvements between 12th and 23rd Streets South in Crystal City. In coordination with Arlington County, VDOT is studying opportunities to improve the safety, accessibility, and overall user experience on and across Route 1 in this area.

To gather input at the beginning of this study process, VDOT invites the public to learn more at virginiadot.org/route1multimodalstudy and take the survey through Nov. 15. Input received at this stage will help identify specific areas of interest and concern for those who bike, walk, ride, or drive Route 1 in the study area.

Input may also be sent to Dan Reinhard, P.E., VDOT Project Manager, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030, or to route1multimodalstudy@vdot.virginia.gov.

Planning for the Future!

Now through October 23, the public can complete a System Expansion Survey to provide feedback on seven options to expand DC Circulator service to Ward 7. The survey is part of the 2020 DC Circulator Transit Development Plan (TDP) that evaluates the DC Circulator system, analyzes options to improve operations, and assesses recommendations for system expansion. The 2020 TDP will use ridership data and resident feedback to develop an extensive plan for improving the overall rider experience. A big component of the study is to support the expansion of service in the coming years to include a new route to Ward 7.

The survey can be found online, and a paper copy that will include a postage-paid return envelope can be requested by calling 202-991-4645. DDOT also will host a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, October 14 to discuss the options and provide additional information to residents. A full schedule of upcoming community meetings that DDOT representatives will host or attend is available at DCCirculatorTDP.com.

 

Public input sought for proposed DC Circulator Route in Ward 7

D.C. is asking the public to weigh in on seven options for a new bus route in its Northeast and Southeast neighborhoods.

Through Oct. 23, you can fill out the System Expansion Survey for a new DC Circulator route in Ward 7.

The options are:

  • Union Station-Deanwood-East Capitol Street: Currently served by Metrobus Route 97 peak service, this 14.56 mile route would serve Deanwood, Benning Road, Stadium Armory, and Union Station Metro Stations.
  • New York Avenue-Deanwood-Benning Road: Metrobus routes B2 and W4 would share connections on this 10.57 mile route; an alternative end of line at Union Market would extend the route to 17.26 miles.
  • Potomac Avenue-Benning Road: Metrobus routes M6 and W4 would share connections on this 9.30 mile route.
  • Alabama-Good Hope-Naylor Road: This 10.92 mile route is currently served by Metrobus routes M6 and the 30s.
  • Skyland-Minnesota Avenue-Deanwood: Currently served by Metrobus U7, this 12.59 mile route would serve Deanwood and Minnesota Avenue Metro Stations, and Skyland; an alternative end of line at Fort Lincoln would extend the route to 18.06 miles.
  • Navy Yard-Benning Road: Metrobus route W4 would share connections; this 10.85 mile route would serve Benning Road and Navy Yard Metro Stations, and Skyland.
  • Navy Yard-Benning Road via Minnesota Avenue: Metrobus route W4 would share connections; this 10.95 mile route would serve Benning Road and Navy Yard Metro Stations, and Skyland.

“The new Ward 7 Circulator route is an essential part of our efforts to connect all eight wards through an affordable and convenient public transit system,” Mayor Muriel Bowser said in a statement.

A virtual public meeting to discuss the options is scheduled for Oct. 14.

Ward 7 includes neighborhoods in Deanwood, Capitol View, Benning Heights, Marshall Heights, Hillcrest, Dupont Park, Penn Branch, Randle Heights, River Terrace, Parkside, Mayfair, Eastland Gardens, as well as the area of Kingman Park.

 

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) is partnering with state and local
agencies, nonprofits and communities across Maryland to host Walktober, a monthlong series of activities
and virtual webinars in October promoting the state’s official exercise: walking. Walktober features the
October 7 celebration of the sixth annual Walk Maryland Day, as well four webinars focusing on pedestrian
safety, health and walking as a commuting option.

The webinars – or “walkinars” – are being held online, rather than in-person events, to encourage safe
practices as Maryland continues its COVID-19 recovery. Residents are invited to sign up for the 90-minute
walkinars, which feature local, state and national speakers.

As part of the statewide focus on walking, walkable communities and pedestrian safety, MDOT is hosting a
website, mdot.maryland.gov/walktober, with information about Walktober and Walk Maryland Day, as well
as registration for the webinar series.

The four walkinars, scheduled for 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursdays, October 1, 15, 22 and 29, are tailored to
pedestrian enthusiasts, advocates, planners and residents. Panelists will share resources to help build,
strengthen and sustain partnerships, and share new tools and technologies being used across the country to
promote pedestrian access and safety. The series is open to all, and provides American Institute of Certified
Planners (AICP) with 1.5 Certification Maintenance credits per session to maintain certification.

Walkinar participants will learn about the benefits of walking and walkability, and about a wide range of state
and national resources available to improve the safety and access to safe walking in their communities. The
series includes:

October 1, “What Can We Do?”

Panelists will discuss key resources and initiatives at the state and national level to promote pedestrian
safety, access and wellness. Participants include Marty Baker, Deputy Director of Bicycle and
Pedestrian Planning for MDOT; Danielle Arigoni, Director of Livable Communities for AARP; and
Ian Thomas, State and Local Program Director for the nonprofit America Walks.

October 15, “Pedestrian Infrastructure, Safety and Health.”

This webinar highlights MDOT pedestrian safety initiatives, as well as Maryland Department of
Health (MDH) efforts to encourage people of all ages and abilities to make walking part of a wellness
plan. Panelists include Jeff Dunckel, Pedestrian-Bicycle Safety Program Manager for the MDOT
Motor Vehicle Administration’s Maryland Highway Safety Office; Kandese Holford, Regional
Planner for Montgomery and Frederick counties at the MDOT State Highway Administration; and a
lead representative of the MDH’s Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Control.

October 22, “New Trends and Technologies to Support Walkability and Walking”

This talk focuses on tools and technologies that can help communities develop safe infrastructure and
identify areas to target for access improvements. Panelists are Hank Greenberg, Director of AARP
Maryland; Anat Caspi, Principal Scientist at the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science &
Engineering and Director of the Taskar Center for Accessible Technology; Victor Juan Rodriguez,
Chief Executive Officer of WaBu; and Dan Hudson, Trail Planner for the Maryland Department of
Natural Resources (DNR).

October 29, “Walking the Walk of Maryland’s Pedestrian Agenda.”

Panelists will discuss actions being taken across Maryland to integrate walking into residents’ daily
lives and commutes. Panelists include Cara Rozaieski, Director of Prevention and Healthy
Communications at the Wicomico County Health Department; Tracey Greene Gordy, Senior Regional
Planner at the Lower Eastern Shore Regional Office for the Maryland Department of Planning
(MDP); Sandra Brecher, Chief of Commuter Services for the Montgomery County Department of
Transportation’s Office of Transportation Policy; and Chris Eatough, Bicycle and Pedestrian
Coordinator for the Howard County Office of Transportation.

 

***Metrorail Construction Alert***

Overview

The Metro system’s outdoor station platforms have been exposed to weather conditions for over four decades and twenty have been identified in need of total platform reconstruction; the time has come to address the issue. Consequently, Metro will be focusing its 2020 group of platform replacements at the following Metrorail stations in Arlington County, VA and Fairfax County, VA:

  • Vienna
  • Dunn Loring
  • West Falls Church
  • East Falls Church

Metro has announced that the Vienna, Dunn Loring and East Falls Church Metrorail stations are anticipated to be closed from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. West Falls Church Station will remain open and serve as the western terminus of the Orange Line.

The East Falls Church Station will be closed to customers during the summer months; however, Orange and Silver line trains will be permitted to pass through the station using a single track through the work area.

 

Parking Limitations – Beginning March 15, 2020

Parking availability will be impacted at each of the above-listed Metrorail stations.

Parking Capacity PIP

The East Falls Church station will have no daily parking available; the Kiss & Ride will be open for pick-up and drop-off only. Capacity at West Falls Church will be reduced by 50% (1,100 daily spaces will remain available). Minimal to no parking reductions will occur at Vienna and Dunn Loring. Learn more from WMATA’s February 14, 2020 press release.

 

What Are My Alternatives?

Commuters affected by the parking lot closures are encouraged to consider arranging formal carpools using the free Commuter Connections ridematching platform. New carpools comprised of three or more individuals may qualify for a maximum incentive of $130 for a 90-day period through the Commuter Connections ‘Pool Rewards program. An additional $100 may be awarded for carpools traveling along the I-66 corridor. Learn more at the ‘Pool Rewards webpage; scroll to the bottom for the “Pool Rewards for Carpools” section.

Commuters can also use Kiss & Ride lots or Park & Ride lots to form spontaneous casual carpools with the help of CarpoolNow. Carpool drivers picking up other commuters going to and from work can use the Commuter Connections CarpoolNow mobile app and will receive a $10 incentive payment per trip, up to $600 a year. Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play to download CarpoolNow on your smartphone. CarpoolNow works like other popular ride-hailing services, except the driver, earn money commuting to and from work and the passenger’s ride is free!

Free express and local shuttle bus service will be provided during station closures. Check back for further details in mid-March.

 

Other helpful links:

  • WMATA’s Platform Improvement Project webpage

 

I-495 EXPRESS LANES NORTHERN EXTENSION PROJECT

(495 NEXT) LOCATION & DESIGN PUBLIC HEARING MARCH 12

VDOT will present and receive public input on proposed design plans and findings from draft environmental assessment 

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will hold a Location and Design Public Hearing to present proposed design plans and findings from the 495 NEXT project’s Draft Environmental Assessment. The project involves plans to extend the 495 Express Lanes by approximately three miles from the Dulles Toll Road interchange to the George Washington Memorial Parkway in the vicinity of the American Legion Bridge to reduce congestion, improve safety and travel reliability, and provide additional travel choices. The project will involve a change in limited access control.

The VDOT presentation will include:

  • The Draft Environmental Assessment being prepared by VDOT in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), to include traffic, noise, and other studies
  • Proposed design plans to extend the 495 Express Lanes including pedestrian and bicycle improvements

When:

Thursday, March 12, 2020

6:30-8:30 p.m.

Open House: 6:30 – 7 p.m.

Presentation begins at 7 p.m., followed by a public comment period

(Inclement Weather Date: March 18, 2020)

Where:

Langley High School

6520 Georgetown Pike

McLean, VA 22101

Why:

Public input and understanding are important parts of VDOT’s project planning and development. Comments on the 495 NEXT Project can be given in person or in writing at the meeting, or submitted by April 15, 2020, to Abi Lerner, P.E., Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030 or by email at 495NorthernExtension@VDOT.virginia.gov. Please reference “495 Express Lanes Northern Extension Study” in the subject line.

Public hearing materials and information will be available for review by February 26, 2020, and can be accessed in advance of the public hearing on the project website (495NorthernExtension.org), during business hours at VDOT's Northern Virginia District Office at 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030, or at one of the designated public locations. Please call ahead at 703-691-6715 or TTY/TDD 711 to ensure appropriate personnel are available to answer your questions.

VDOT ASKS FOR INPUT ON ROUTE 50 STUDY IN ARLINGTON
Public meeting Nov. 14 at Thomas Jefferson Middle School; Take online survey through Nov. 25

ARLINGTON – The Virginia Department of Transportation is holding a public information meeting Thursday, Nov. 14 on a study of potential safety and operational improvements for less than a mile of Route 50 (Arlington Boulevard) between Glebe Road (Route 120) and Fillmore Street. The public can provide input through an online survey until Nov. 25.

The study is being completed through the Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) program, which aims to identify cost-effective measures intended to improve safety and reduce congestion.

The concepts being studied will be based on public input and may include improving turn lanes, traffic signal timing and operations, and access management for properties and streets along the corridor.

Other concepts being evaluated may also include:

Stop by between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. at Thomas Jefferson Middle School, 125 South Old Glebe Road, Arlington, VA 22204 to learn more about the study and to provide your input. A short presentation will begin at 7 p.m., and VDOT staff will be available to answer questions.

A key part of this study is public input. Residents and travelers of the corridor in the study area are asked to take a short survey now available for responses on the study website. You may also give comments at the meeting or submit them by Monday, Nov. 25 to Mr. Bobby Mangalath, P.E., Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.

A follow-up public information meeting to present potential recommendations will be held near the end of the study, which is scheduled for completion in spring 2020.

 

GIVE INPUT ON FAIRFAX COUNTY PARKWAY IMPROVEMENTS
Fourth public information meeting is Nov. 6 at James W. Robinson, Jr. Secondary School

FAIRFAX – The Virginia Department of Transportation will hold a fourth public information meeting Wednesday, Nov. 6 on plans for improvements to about three miles of the Fairfax County Parkway (Route 286), including widening the road from four to six lanes between Route 29 (Lee Highway) and Route 123 (Ox Road).

The proposed project design also includes:

  • Building an interchange at Popes Head Road and the future Shirley Gate Road extension
  • Improving the existing trail in the Fairfax County Parkway right of way
  • Adding a new shared-use path to make the trail continuous within the project limits

Stop by between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. at James W. Robinson, Jr. Secondary School, 5035 Sideburn Road, Fairfax, VA 22032 to view displays and learn more about the project and preliminary design. VDOT will hold a presentation beginning at 7 p.m. Project staff will be available to answer your questions.

The project is being financed with federal, state and local funds, including Smart Scale and Northern Virginia Transportation Authority funding.

Comments may be provided at the meeting or sent to VDOT by Nov. 18, 2019. E-mail or mail comments to Mr. Sitaram Kodali, P.E., Project Manager, Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.

View the project page for more details.

View this release online.

Maryland to hold public hearings on I-270 expansion proposal

The Maryland Department of Transportation will hold four meetings from Nov. 12 to Nov. 21 for input from the public on proposed solutions to I-270 congestion between I-370 and I-70, as it seeks to move forward with Gov. Larry Hogan’s I-270 and I-495 traffic relief plan.

The workshops will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the following locations in Frederick and Montgomery counties:

  • Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2019 – Clarksburg High School: 22500 Wims Road, Clarksburg, Md. 20871
  • Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2019 – Lincoln Recreation Center, Lincoln Elementary School: 200 Madison St., Frederick, Md. 21701
  • Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019 – Urbana Fire Department Banquet Hall: 3602 Urbana Pike, Frederick, Md. 21704
  • Thursday, Nov. 21, 2019 – Activity Center at Bohrer Park: 506 South Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, Md. 20877

Sessions will include a brief presentation at 7 p.m. together with information displays, handouts and staff availability for questions.

Marylanders wanting to watch presentations online or submit comments in writing can head to 495-270-P3.com. Comments on the issue can be submitted to 270-study-P3@mdot.maryland.gov.

 

PROVIDE INPUT FOR ROUTE 50 STUDY IN FALLS CHURCH
Public info meeting Oct. 21 at Falls Church High School; Take online survey through Oct. 31

FALLS CHURCH – The Virginia Department of Transportation is holding a public information meeting Monday, Oct. 21 on a study of potential safety and operational improvements for three miles of Route 50 (Arlington Boulevard) between Jaguar Trail and Wilson Boulevard (Route 613). Residents and travelers are also asked to provide input through an online survey that is open through Oct. 31.

The study is being completed through the Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) program, which aims to identify cost-effective measures intended to improve safety and reduce congestion.

The concepts being studied include:

  • Improved traffic signal timing and operations
  • Turn lane improvements
  • Turn restrictions
  • Access management
  • Pedestrian enhancements
  • Innovative Intersections

Stop by between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. in the cafeteria at Falls Church High School, 7521 Jaguar Trail, Falls Church, VA 22042 to learn more about the study and to provide your input. A short presentation will begin at 7 p.m., and VDOT staff will be available to answer questions.

A key part of this phase of the study is public input. Residents and travelers of the corridor in the study area are asked to take a short survey that is now available for responses on the study website. You may also give comments at the meeting or submit them by Thursday, Oct. 31 to Mr. Bobby Mangalath, Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.

A follow-up public information meeting to present potential recommendations will be held near the end of the study, which is scheduled for completion in spring 2020.

View this release online.

 

PROVIDE INPUT FOR ROUTE 28 STUDY IN PRINCE WILLIAM COUNTY
Public info meeting Sept. 30 in Manassas Park; Take online survey through Oct. 7

MANASSAS PARK – The Virginia Department of Transportation is holding a public information meeting Monday, Sept. 30 on a study of potential operational improvements for two miles of Route 28 (Centreville Road) in Prince William County between Blooms Quarry Lane and the Fairfax County line. Residents and drivers are also asked to provide input through an online survey that is open through Oct. 7.

The study is being completed through the Strategically Targeted Affordable Roadway Solutions (STARS) program, which aims to identify cost-effective measures aimed at improving safety and reducing congestion.

The concepts being studied include:

·         Innovative intersections such as roundabouts and overpasses

·         Improved traffic signal timing and operations

·         Turn lane improvements

·         Access management for properties along the corridor including new medians

·         Pedestrian enhancements including crosswalks and new sidewalks

Stop by between 6 and 8 p.m. at Manassas Park Community Center, 99 Adams Street, Manassas Park, VA 20111 to learn more about the study and to provide your input. A short presentation will begin at 6:30 p.m., and VDOT staff will be available to answer questions.

A key part of this phase of the study is public input. Residents and travelers of the corridor in the study area are asked to take a short survey that is now available for responses on the study website. You may also give comments at the meeting or submit them by Monday, Oct. 7 to Mr. Terrell Hughes, P.E., Virginia Department of Transportation, 1401 East Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23219.

View this release online.

 

TRANSFORM 66 OUTSIDE THE BELTWAY CONSTRUCTION UPDATE MEETING

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

Open House 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Presentation at 7 p.m.; repeated at 8 p.m.

Location:

Providence Community Center

3001 Vaden Dr., Fairfax, VA 22031

Learn more about:

  • Upcoming work near the Vienna/Fairfax-GMU Metrorail Station, including planned closure of the Vaden Drive bridge over I-66 from fall 2019 to summer 2020
  • Rebuilding the Route 123 Interchange
  • Nutley Street Interchange design update

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PROVIDE COMMENTS ON I-395 SHIRLINGTON IMPROVEMENTS STUDY
Public information meeting is June 12 at Drew Model Elementary School

ARLINGTON – Join the Virginia Department of Transportation on Wednesday, June 12 to learn about and give input on alternatives identified by a study assessing the safety and operational improvements at the I-395 Shirlington interchange (Exit 6), as well as at the following:

·         The ramp from South Glebe Road (Route 120) to southbound I-395

·         The intersection of South Shirlington Road and South Arlington Mill Drive

·         The intersection of Gunston Road and Martha Custis Drive

The study has collected data on traffic volumes and vehicle movements and identified safety and operational issues. Learn more about the study’s identified alternatives, which aim to reduce congestion and crashes as well as boost the interchange’s overall performance. The study is being financed with federal funds and is expected to be finalized in fall 2019.

Residents are invited to stop by Drew Model Elementary School, 3500 23rd Street South, Arlington, VA 22206 between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. to view displays and learn more about the study. A presentation will begin at 7:30 p.m. VDOT staff will be on hand to answer questions.

Give comments at the meeting, or e-mail or mail them by June 24, 2019, to Ms. Olivia Daniszewski, EIT, Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.

Visit the study page for more details.

 

Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle - Washington, DC

June 22nd & 23rd, Pennsylvania Ave between 3rd & 7th Sts, NW

Enjoy BBQ perfection at Washington’s tastiest summer celebration bringing together delicious BBQ, delectable summer specialties, nationally-recognized BBQ contests, popular bands, celebrity chefs & more.  Visit “The Drive” tent, 94.7 FM home to D.C.'s greatest hits, featuring a blend of top rock, pop, and R&B from the '70s, '80s, and '90s.

 

GIVE FEEDBACK ON ROUTE 29 WIDENING IN FAIRFAX 
Design public hearing is June 10 at the VDOT Northern Virginia District Building

FAIRFAX – The Virginia Department of Transportation will hold a design public hearing Monday, June 10 on plans to reconstruct and widen 1.5 miles of Route 29 (Lee Highway) from four lanes to six between Union Mill Road (Route 659) and Buckleys Gate Drive to relieve congestion and improve safety and operations.

The project will also add and improve shared-use paths along both sides of Route 29 to provide better bicyclist and pedestrian access to the trails at the Fairfax County Parkway/West Ox Road interchange.

The project is being financed with state (including Smart Scale) funding and the I-66 concession fee.

Stop by between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. in the Potomac Conference Room of the VDOT Northern Virginia District Building, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030 to learn more about the project, review proposed plans and provide input. VDOT staff will be available to answer questions. A presentation will begin at 7 p.m.

Provide comments at the meeting, or send them to VDOT by June 20, 2019. Email or mail comments to Ms. Hong Ha, P.E., Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.

Visit the project page for more details.

PROVIDE FEEDBACK ON I-495 EXPRESS LANES NORTHERN EXTENSION STUDY AT MAY 20 PUBLIC MEETING

Join VDOT for open house and presentation to learn more about environmental study underway of plans to extend I-495 Express Lanes from 

WHAT: 

The public is invited to learn more about and provide input on a Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) study of plans to extend the I-495 Express Lanes by two and a half miles from the Dulles Toll Road interchange to the vicinity of the American Legion Bridge. This study, which kicked off in May 2018, is proposed to help address one of the worst bottlenecks in the region and reduce cut-through traffic in local neighborhoods. VDOT will provide updates on:

  • The Environmental Assessment being prepared by VDOT in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), to include traffic, noise, and environmental studies
  • Project delivery and implementation plans
  • Preliminary design concepts to extend the Express Lanes including concepts for pedestrian and bicycle improvements along the corridor

WHEN: 

Monday, May 20, 2019

6:30-8:30 p.m.

Open House: 6:30 – 7 p.m.

Presentation: 7 – 8 p.m.

Questions and Answers: 8 – 8:30 p.m

WHERE:

Cooper Middle School

977 Balls Hill Road

McLean, VA 22101

WHY:

Public input and understanding are important parts of VDOT’s project planning and development. Written comments can be submitted at the May 20 meeting or by mail, email or online. Comments received by June 10, 2019, will be included in the meeting summary. Visit 495NorthernExtension.org for more information.

A public hearing on the I-495 Express Lanes Northern Extension Study will be held later this year.

ATTEND ONE OF TWO MEETINGS ON ROUTE 7 CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENTS

FAIRFAX – The Virginia Department of Transportation is holding two public information meetings in May on the latest design and construction plans to improve about seven miles of Route 7 (Leesburg Pike) between Reston Avenue and Jarrett Valley Drive in Fairfax County.

The project includes widening the road from four to six lanes, adding shared-use paths along both sides, replacing the bridge over Difficult Run, and making substantial intersection and other improvements along the corridor. These improvements aim to enhance safety, decrease congestion, increase capacity, and expand mobility for all users, as part of Fairfax County’s Comprehensive Plan.

Meetings will take place on the following dates:

Tuesday, May 7
Forestville Elementary School
1085 Utterback Store Road, Great Falls, VA 22066

Tuesday, May 14
Colvin Run Elementary School
1400 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182

Each meeting will be from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. with a presentation at 7:30 p.m.

At the meetings, the team will share information on the design-build phase of the project, including the latest design and schedule, and the transition to construction work coming in 2019. Staff will also be available to answer questions on stormwater management, right of way, environmental topics, traffic engineering, and noise walls.

This project includes federal, state (including Smart Scale), Northern Virginia Transportation Authority and Fairfax County funds.

Provide comments at the meeting or send to VDOT by May 26, 2019. E-mail or mail comments to Mr. Arifur Rahman, P.E., Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.

Visit ConnectRoute7.org for more details.

On Friday, May 17, 2019 Commuter Connections and the Washington Area Bicyclist Association invite you to celebrate bicycling as a clean, fun, and healthy way to get to work. Be one of the first 20,000 to register and attend this FREE EVENT, then bike to your choice of 115 pit stops in DC, MD, and VA and receive a free T-shirt, refreshments, and be entered into a raffle for a new bicycle.

COMMENT ON RICHMOND HIGHWAY CORRIDOR IMPROVEMENTS 

Design Public Hearing is March 26 at Mount Vernon High School  

ALEXANDRIA – The Virginia Department of Transportation will hold a design public hearing Tuesday, March 26 on plans to improve about three miles of Richmond Highway (Route 1) from Jeff Todd Way to Sherwood Hall Lane in Fairfax County.

The recommended design will widen the road from four to six lanes, provide bike paths and sidewalks on both sides of the road, and reserve the median width necessary to accommodateFairfax County's future Bus Rapid Transit plans for dedicated bus-only lanes.

Preliminary engineering and right of way have been fully funded by federal, state, and county sources, as well as the Northern Virginia Transportation Authority.

The public is invited to stop by between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. in the auditorium/cafeteria (use entrance 4) at Mount Vernon High School, 8515 Old Mount Vernon Road, Alexandria, VA 22039 to learn more about the project, as well as review and provide input on the preferred design plans. VDOT staff will be available to answer questions. A presentation will begin at 7 p.m.

If canceled due to inclement weather, the meeting will be held at the same time on Thursday, April 11.

The project team is particularly seeking feedback on proposed underpasses for bicyclists and pedestrians at Dogue Creek and Little Hunting Creek. Comments may be provided at the meeting or sent to VDOT by April 26, 2019. Email or mail comments to Mr. Dan Reinhard, P.E., Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.

Visit www.virginiadot.org/richmondhighway for more information and to review materials before the meeting.

 

GIVE INPUT ON ROUTE 29 BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS
Public information meeting is March 5 at Fairhill Elementary School 

FAIRFAX – The Virginia Department of Transportation will hold a public information meeting Tuesday, March 5 on plans to construct missing segments of the shared-use path along northbound Route 29 (Lee Highway) between Vaden Drive and Nutley Street (Route 243) to improve safety and accessibility for bicyclists and pedestrians. The project will also extend the Route 29 culvert over the tributary of Accotink Creek just west of Nutley Street to accommodate the shared-use path.

The project is being funded by part of the concession fee provided under the Transform 66 Outside the Beltway Project Comprehensive Agreement.

Stop by between 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. at Fairhill Elementary School, 3001 Chichester Lane, Fairfax, VA 22031 to learn more about the project and review proposed plans. VDOT staff will be available to answer questions. A presentation will begin at 7 p.m.

If canceled due to inclement weather, the meeting will be held at the same time on Tuesday, March 19.

Provide comments at the meeting, or send them to VDOT by March 15, 2019. Email or mail comments to Ms. Hong Ha, P.E., Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.

Visit the project page for more details.

 

Forum on Economic Impacts of Transportation Investments

The Northern Virginia Transportation Authority is pairing up with the Northern Virginia Transportation Alliance to host a forum on “The Economic Impacts of Transportation Investments.” Experts in transportation, real estate, heavy construction, and business will convene on February 6th from 10:00 am to 11:00 am to discuss how transportation factors into business decisions, as well as take a look at a recent Northern Virginia Transportation Authority study on the economic benefits of the Authority’s $3 billion in regional funding of transportation projects aimed at tackling congestion across NoVa.

Key takeaways from the study’s findings include:

1) 26,000 jobs created through NVTA project funding;

2) NVTA’s projects are expected to save Virginians 209 million hours of travel time, or $3.1 billion in monetary savings, giving taxpayers more than 100% return on the taxes they entrust to NVTA; and

3) NVTA’s funding of $1.9 billion in 95 multimodal regional projects has triggered another $3.8 billion in additional investments = $5.7 billion in critical transportation projects to NoVa.

Additional details are in the invitation below. If you’d like to attend, please visit our registration page to RSVP by clicking here. We hope to see you soon!

REGISTER TODAY

 

Rock Creek East I Livability Study - Public Event #1

When:  Wednesday, February 6, 2019 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Where:  Juanita E. Thornton/Shepherd Park Neighborhood Library - 7420 Georgia Ave. NW (SPK Meeting Room 2)
Washington, DC 20012

Meeting Information 
The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) will host its first public event for the Rock Creek East I Livability Study on Wednesday, February 6, 2019, from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm. The purpose of this neighborhood study is to identify opportunities to enhance community quality of life through transportation safety and access improvements for all modes within the study area. At the first public event, DDOT will introduce the project, share data collection, and provide opportunities for participants to share existing concerns.

Project Background 
DDOT is undertaking the Rock Creek East I Livability Study to evaluate the transportation network in the study area from a system perspective, and look for opportunities for a safer and more accessible multimodal network. This study will be led with a data-driven approach, using existing and future conditions to understand transportation challenges and opportunities and to recommend specific implementable actions. The study will be supported with robust public outreach throughout the process. You can find out more about the study by visiting  www.rceast1.com.

Study Area
The study area is defined by Rock Creek and the Maryland border to the West, Eastern Avenue to the North, New Hampshire Avenue NE and the Red Line Metrorail tracks to the East, and Military Road NW, Missouri Avenue NW, and Riggs Road NE to the South.

The express version
  • Starting August 6, the 95 Express Lanes morning reversal will change to 10:30 a.m.
  • The 95 Express Lanes revert back to the regular reversal hours starting the Tuesday after Labor Day (September 4)
Change is coming to the 95 Express Lanes reversal schedule
We heard you. Our customers gave us feedback about the northbound reversal time and now the 95 Express Lanes reversal schedule will shift starting Monday, August 6 until the Tuesday after Labor Day (September 4). The Lanes will stay pointed northbound for an extra 30 minutes until 10:30 a.m. This is the only change to the summer reversal schedule.
Always be in the know about any Express Lanes updates. Check lane directions, traffic patterns, and real-time toll prices on our website.

GIVE INPUT ON TYSONS/OLD MEADOW ROAD BIKE/PED IMPROVEMENTS 
Design public hearing is June 14 at George C. Marshall High School
 
FALLS CHURCH – The Virginia Department of Transportation will hold a design public hearing Thursday, June 14 on plans to build a pedestrian and bicycle bridge and shared-use path in the vicinity of Route 123 and I-495, to improve bicycle and pedestrian safety and connectivity in the Tysons area.
Improvements include a new 10-foot shared-use path (shown in blue on map) from near Tysons One Place and Fashion Boulevard to Route 123 and Old Meadow Road via a new pedestrian and bicycle bridge over I-495; the path will mostly follow Old Meadow Road.
Stop by between 7 and 9 p.m. at George C. Marshall High School, 7731 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, VA 22043 to learn more about the project, review proposed plans and provide input. VDOT staff will be available to answer questions. A presentation will begin at 7:30 p.m.
Provide comments at the meeting, or send them to VDOT by June 29, 2018. Email or mail comments to Mr. Abi Lerner, P.E., Virginia Department of Transportation, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030.
Visit the project page for more details.

I-495 EXPRESS LANES NORTHERN EXTENSION STUDY PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING ON JUNE 11
Learn More About Environmental Study for Proposed Extension
WHAT:
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will host a Public Information Meeting about the environmental study of plans to extend the I-495 Express Lanes by approximately three miles from the I-495 and Dulles Toll Road interchange to the vicinity of the American Legion Bridge and Maryland line. Project staff will be on hand to answer one-on-one questions before and after the presentation.
WHEN:
Monday, June 11, 2018
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Presentation at 7 p.m.
WHERE:
Cooper Middle School
977 Balls Hill Road
McLean, VA 22101
RSVP:
All interested media should contact Justin McNaull at 202-253-6136 orjustin.mcnaull@vdot.virginia.gov to confirm attendance or for more information

I-66 INSIDE THE BELTWAY EASTBOUND WIDENING MEETING TUESDAY, JUNE 5
Pardon Our Dust meeting at Yorktown High School in Arlington

WHAT:
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is holding a Pardon Our Dust meeting to discuss upcoming construction that will:
  • Add an additional travel lane on a four-mile stretch of eastbound I-66 between the Dulles Connector Road and Fairfax Drive (Exit 71)
  • Connect two existing ramps at the I-66 and Route 7 interchange to allow direct access from eastbound I-66 to the West Falls Church Metro Station
  • Build a bridge for the Washington & Old Dominion (W&OD) Trail over Route 29 (Lee Highway)

Construction is getting underway and the new eastbound lane is scheduled to open in Fall 2020. Meeting attendees can view project plans and talk with project team staff.
WHEN:
Tuesday, June 5, 2018
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Presentation at 7 p.m.
WHERE:
Yorktown High School
5200 Yorktown Blvd, Arlington, VA 22207

Click here for a printable flyer with meeting details. Visit www.inside.transform66.org for project information.

Phone: 1-800-745-RIDE

TDD: 202-962-3213

Email: ridematching@mwcog.org

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