Local commuters will soon be facing a big change as the I-395 HOV lanes inside the Beltway become
express toll lanes later this month.
The tolled express lanes are set to open on the night of Sunday, Nov.17. Toll prices will be displayed on overhead signs.
Among the changes that drivers should note include:
- The 395 Express lanes will begin from Edsal Road, where I-95 Express Lanes ends, to the 14th Street Bridge in DC.
- The redesigned S. Eads Street interchange will offer quick access to the Pentagon and Pentagon City.
- From November 14th, new stoplights on S. Eads Street and the Pentagon will be put on flash mode until the Lanes open on the 17th.
- The number of reversible lanes will increase from 2 to 3
- The lanes will remain free for vehicles with three or more occupants but you'll still need an E-ZPass Flex.
- Vehicles with 1 to 2 occupants will need to pay tolls which will increase and decrease with demand. Tolls will only be paid using an E-ZPass device which is available online or at an area retailer.
- Tolling and HOV restriction will be in effect at all times and every vehicle will need an E-ZPass to use the lanes.
According to toll lane operator, Transurban, these tolls will help to reduce traffic in the regular lanes of I-395 and will bring in $15 million annually for transit projects.
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