It seems like we have been talking about the new Express Lanes on the Capital Beltway in Northern Virginia forever. They are finally scheduled to open on November 17, 2012.
The Express Lanes are two lanes in each direction, from the Springfield Interchange to just north of the Dulles Toll Road. The idea is that people who need to get somewhere faster, will pay a premium to drive on these less congested lanes. The cost will vary based on real-time traffic conditions. The prices will go up or down to manage the traffic. Prices will be posted. Three prices will be posted before each entrance. There will be two prices that show what it will cost for you to drive to two popular exits. The third price will show you what it will cost to drive from the point where you enter to the end of the Express Lanes.
There seems to be some confusion about whether or not drivers will need a new E-Z Pass to use the Express Lanes. The answer is maybe, maybe not. If you already have an E-Z Pass, you can use the Express Lanes and it will be charged directly to your account. If you plan to commute with 3 or more people, you can use the Express Lanes for FREE, BUT you must trade in your current transponder for one that has the carpool switch. When you enter the lanes as a carpooler, you will flip the switch, indicating that you are carpooling.
It will take Northern Virginia some time to adjust to this new road pattern. The key to success for these Express Lanes is for commuters to understand where the entry and exit points are. You can find a map that shows you this information at 495ExpressLanes.com/map.
Note: Motorcycles travel for free on the Express Lanes, but Hybrids (unless they are a 3 person carpool with the new transponder) must pay the toll.
For more information about the Express Lanes, visit 495ExpressLanes.com to answer any further questions.
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