As part of the 495 Express Lanes Northern Extension (495 NEXT) project, a new Georgetown Pike bridge over Interstate 495 is being built in phases to keep traffic moving throughout construction.
The Virginia Department of Transportation will shift all travel lanes on the bridge over I-495 in McLean to a new northern portion of the bridge over the weekend of August 23-26. The shift originally had been planned for the weekend of Aug. 16-19, but VDOT rescheduled after weather conditions disrupted preparatory work.
VDOT officials advise drivers to avoid the Georgetown Pike and I-495 interchange area all during that weekend, as lanes will be reduced on Georgetown Pike and I-495 ramps will be closed, with detours in place.
During the traffic shift:
• At 9 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 23, lane and ramp closures and work will begin. By no later than 5 a.m. on Monday, August 26, all lanes on Georgetown Pike are expected to be open on the new northern section of the bridge, and all Beltway ramps will be reopened.
• During that weekend, Georgetown Pike Bridge over I-495 will be reduced from five to two lanes (one lane open in each direction), and all ramps between the Beltway and Georgetown Pike will be closed, with detours in effect. These closures are needed for crews to complete paving, lane markings, ramp tie-ins and other work to implement the shift, officials said.
• Enhanced police presence will be in place throughout affected locations.
To avoid expected congestion and backups on Georgetown Pike near the Beltway, travelers are urged to stay away from the area and take alternate routes. If travel is necessary, drivers should plan additional time and expect delays.
To keep current with the project’s construction, travelers should sign up for construction updates and alerts at 495next.vdot.virginia.gov/news/newsletters/get-updates or call the construction-information line at (703) 592-6430.
