I-66 east HOV ramp to I-495 north to close on or about Oct. 12

Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) will close the left-lane ramp used by high occupancy vehicles (HOV) traveling from I-66 east to I-495 north (Capital Beltway Inner Loop) on or about Friday, Oct.12, after the morning rush hour, according to a report from Del. tim Hugo, who represents part of Prince William County.

While this dedicated HOV ramp is closed, crews will perform paving, striping and installation of roadway delineators in order to reopen the ramp by the end of this year as a new dedicated 495 Express Lanes ramp.

During the upcoming ramp closure, HOV-drivers traveling on I-66 east will access I-495 north by exiting I-66 from the RIGHT lane (rather than the far left lane), and then using the flyover ramp to merge onto I-495 from the right lane. 

HOV-drivers affected by this new traffic pattern are urged to follow highway message signs that will be in place along I-66, approaching I-495. While traffic flow has improved in this area due to interchange improvements, ALL drivers should expect additional delays in this area for several weeks, and should allow extra time in their commutes.

The new Express Lanes ramp will be available for free to HOVs with three or more people, or to drivers with fewer than three occupants who choose to pay a toll. All drivers choosing to use the new 495 Express Lanes must have an E-ZPass, and HOV vehicles must have an E-ZPass Flex in order to travel the Express Lanes for free.