The Virginia Department of Transportation is bringing the new $38.6 million I-66 Active Traffic Management System (ATMS) online this afternoon. The system will be implemented between the District of Columbia and Route 29 in Gainesville. VDOT says the system “allows for improved safety and incident management along one of the most congested interstate highways in Virginia and the nation.”
Expanded use of the shoulder lanes, known as “X” lanes, between the Beltway and Route 50 will routinely be opened to traffic when congestion builds, regardless of the time of day or day of the week. New lane control signals on all lanes between Nutley Street and Route 29 in Centreville will enable motorists to see which lanes are usable or blocked well in advance of incidents.
Expanded camera and dynamic message-sign coverage between the District of Columbia and Route 29 in Gainesville is expected to improve monitoring of the highway and thus enable transportation, safety and law enforcement personnel to respond more quickly and appropriately to incidents.
Upgrades to the ramp metering system inside the Beltway will manage traffic merging onto I-66, aiding drivers in adapting to traffic conditions.
