'Express Lanes' To Let Solo Drivers Pay To Use Carpool Lanes Expands In Northern Virginia
ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Northern Virginia's network of "Express Lanes" that allow solo drivers pay a toll to use carpool lanes is expanding.
Carpool lanes on Interstate 395 in Arlington County up to the Potomac River boundary with the District of Columbia are converting Sunday to Express Lanes.
The lanes had previously been reserved for carpools of three or more during rush hour. Now, solo drivers will be able to use the lanes if they pay a toll that varies depending on the amount of traffic.
Express lanes already are in place in northern Virginia on parts of the Capital Beltway, Interstate 95 and Interstate 66.
Virginia had wanted to convert the I-395 lanes years ago, but Arlington County objected on environmental grounds and fears it would discourage carpooling.
The project cost $475 million.
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