Optimize Your Ride as We Improve 495: Commuter Options During Construction and Future Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements

The I-495 Express Lanes Northern Extension (495 NEXT) project is extending the existing 495 Express Lanes north by two-and-a-half miles from the Dulles Corridor interchange to the George Washington Memorial Parkway (GWMP) interchange in the vicinity of the American Legion Bridge. As construction continues throughout the corridor and crews build the new express lanes in the center portion of the Beltway, travelers should expect ongoing narrowed lanes and shoulders, traffic pattern adjustments and lane closures during non-peak travel times.

Express Route 798

Express Bus Service Between Tysons and Bethesda

A new commuter bus service, connecting Tysons, VA and Bethesda, MD, launched in September 2024. The new Express Route 798 provides a travel alternative now, while crews continue building the 495 NEXT project, as well as a faster and more reliable travel option once the new express lanes open in late 2025. Funding support by VDOT and its 495 NEXT project partner, Transurban, enabled this new bi-state bus service.

Key Highlights of Express Route 798

▸ Five stops between Tysons West*Park Transit Station and

Montgomery Lane and East Lane in Downtown Bethesda

▸ Weekday rush hour service every 20 minutes

▸ Transfer to four bus systems

▸ Stops at three Metro stations: Bethesda, Medical Center

and Tysons

▸ Express fare: $4.80 one-way

For more information about Route 798, visit fairfaxcounty.gov/connector/798 or scan the QR below.

You've Got Options

Start or Join a Vanpool or Carpool

Commuters who join or form a carpool or vanpool that travels through the 495 NEXT project area during construction are eligible to receive cash rewards. Commuter Connections ‘Pool Rewards and Vanpool Alliance can help connect commuters to regional resources.

When you commute to work by carpool, vanpool or transit, you may be eligible for free rides home through the regional Commuter Connections Guaranteed Ride Home program. Learn more at fairfaxcounty.gov/transportation/guaranteed-ride.

Look Forward to Future Bicycle & Pedestrian Facilities

Project improvements include a shared-use trail parallel to I-495 from Lewinsville Road to just beyond Live Oak Drive. This trail, which is expected to be completed in 2026, will provide new bicycle and pedestrian facilities and connections to Scott’s Run Nature Preserve and Fairfax County Park Authority’s trail system. In addition, pedestrian access is being added to the Lewinsville Road, Old Dominion Drive, Georgetown Pike and Live Oak Drive bridges over I-495.

The shared-use trail is currently under construction, and is still an active work zone. The trail is not yet open for public use.

Stay informed about the 495 NEXT Project and register for updates about lane closures and traffic changes at 495next.vdot.virginia.gov.

Check 511.vdot.virginia.gov for traffic, work zone and incident information.

VDOT, Northern Virginia District

@VaDOTNOVA

Email: 495NorthernExtension@vdot.virginia.gov

Call: Construction Inquiry Line, 703-592-6430

Virginia Department of Transportation, Michelle Holland, 703-586-0487

Transurban, Mike McGurk, 571-421-5364

Lane Construction, John Undeland, 703-785-3461