VDOT Testing 66 Toll Lanes Prior To December Opening

FALLS CHURCH, VA—You may see messages displayed on new toll signs inside the Beltway on Interstate 66. But don't sweat it; the Virginia Department is only testing the equipment for now. Tolling will begin during weekday rush hour in December.

VDOT's testing is meant to ensure the system is functioning by the time tolling goes into effect. It will continue through the summer and into the fall.

Drivers will see flashing lights when tolling equipment such as cameras and E-ZPass readers is tested. Crews also are testing indicator lights, which briefly flash when a car with an E-ZPass Flex in HOV mode. This will be used as enforcement for cars when tolling takes effect.

Once open in December, the 66 Express Lanes Inside the Beltway will be effective from 5:30 to 9:30 a.m. eastbound and from 3 to 7 p.m.westbound, Monday through Friday. This means single drivers will now be able to use 66 during rush hours. Carpooling drivers with two or more occupants can still use the road for free. However, after express lanes open outside the Beltway in 2022, this will switch to a minimum of three riders for a vehicle drive at no cost.

The lanes will remain free to all users during weekday off-peak periods and weekends.

See more information on the Transform 66 website.

Image via Wikimedia, used under Creative Commons