Transportation Management Plan | 495 Express Lanes Northern Extension

495 Northern Extension Home Transportation Management Plan

Commuter Options During Construction

Construction is in full swing throughout the 495 NEXT project corridor, resulting in lane closures and reduced shoulders, which are necessary for crews to safely perform work. To keep travelers moving safety during construction VDOT has implemented a Transportation Management Plan. The TMP includes strategies and resources to:

Maintain traffic while building the 495 NEXT project;
Support and enhance traffic operations and incident management;
Conduct traffic analysis;
Enhance local network operations when necessary;
Provide transit and transportation demand management resources and incentives;
Provide proactive communications and outreach to keep the public informed.

Travelers should plan ahead when passing through this area. As we improve I-495, VDOT and its partners are providing commute options that will make your travel easier and help optimize your ride. Learn more below.

Start or Join a Carpool

The region’s Commuter Connections ’Pool Rewards program provides up to $130 for new carpoolers. Commuters who join or form a carpool that travels through the 495 NEXT project area through 2026 can receive an additional $100. Find a carpool or carpool partner and get started at Commuter Connections.

Form or Join a Vanpool

Vanpool Alliance, the region's vanpool resource, can help commuters form and/or join a vanpool. New vanpool riders that travel through the 495 NEXT project area during construction are eligible to receive $200 monthly for six months.

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 here.

Make Telework/Hybrid Work Arrangements

Avoid I-495 construction altogether by working remotely. Check with your employer to learn about your telework options. For employers interested in establishing hybrid work arrangements or offering commute alternatives to employees, the region's Commuter Connections program and Virginia's ConnectingVA program provide resources and support. ConnectingVA also provides free technical assistance and consultation resources for telework to companies in Virginia. Please visit Commuter Connections and ConnectingVA for additional information.

Take the Bus - Express Route 798

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

Local Support

Local governments across Virginia have their own long-standing programs and expertise helping employers and residents with their commutes. In Northern Virginia that includes Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties.

Know Before You Go

Staying informed about construction, lane closures and traffic changes ahead of time is the best way to ensure you get to where you need to go during construction. Check out these resources for the latest information:

Last updated: June 17, 2025