The I-66 “inside the Beltway” toll lanes opened this morning.
The new express lanes on I-66 run from I-495 to U.S. Route 29 in Rosslyn.
“During weekday rush hours, vehicles with two or more people can continue to use the lanes for free with an E-ZPass Flex, while single-occupant drivers will have a new option to use this stretch of I-66 by paying a toll via E-ZPass,” stated the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT).
Drivers had a lot to say of their first time with the new toll lanes, as prices fluctuated and rose up to $34.50 during rush hour for the ten mile stretch. The toll price is calculated based on real time traffic data, and fluctuates based on how heavy traffic is.
More on the tolling, from VDOT:
All vehicles traveling during these periods will need an E-ZPass transponder, and HOV-2+ vehicles will need an E-ZPass Flex transponder switched to HOV-mode to travel for free. The new Express Lanes on I-66 Inside the Beltway will be effective from 5:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. eastbound and from 3 to 7 p.m. westbound, Monday through Friday.
Current exemptions for vehicles traveling to and from Dulles International Airport and Clean Special Fuel License Plate vehicles (hybrids) will no longer be in effect.
According to VDOT, the express lanes will still remain free during off-peak periods in that stretch of I-66, including on the weekends.
“Crews have worked through the weekend to complete remaining on-road work including the removal of old signs, and unveiling of new signs. More than 125 new signs were installed along the corridor including electronic signs that provide current toll prices at each entry point,” stated VDOT.
All drivers on the express lanes will need to use an E-ZPass or E-ZPass Flex – the E-Z Pass is if you’re driving alone, and E-Z Pass Flex if you plan on using the lanes toll free with HOV 2+.
