The Virginia Department of Transportation will give drivers their own Christmas gift this year: the suspension of most lane closures and opening the HOV lanes to all traffic.
Lane closures will not in place starting noon Friday through noon Tuesday, Dec. 27, and again from noon Dec. 30 until Tuesday, Jan. 3 for the Christmas and New Yearâs holiday weekends.
âWe want everyone to arrive safely at their destinations during the year-end holidays,â said VDOT Commissioner Greg Whirley in a press release. âWe are opening lanes where appropriate to increase lane capacity on our interstates and other major roads. I encourage motorists to do their part to keep one another safe by obeying all traffic laws, staying alert and engaged behind the wheel, and being courteous to your fellow motorists.â
While lane closures will be lifted, officials say they will be ready in the event of snow or other inclement weather.
HOV restrictions will also be lifted during the holiday weekends.
NORTHERN VIRGINIA HIGH OCCUPANCY VEHICLE (HOV) SCHEDULE:
Christmas
The I-95/395 reversible lanes will be open to all traffic:
- Southbound from 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23 until 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24
- Northbound from 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 24 until 6 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 27 when HOV-3 takes effect
- HOV restrictions on I-95, 395 and 66 are lifted on Monday, Dec. 26
New Yearâs
The I-95/395 reversible lanes will be open to all traffic:
- Southbound from 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 30 until 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 31
- Northbound from 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 31 until 6 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3 when HOV-3 takes effect
- HOV restrictions on I-95, 395 and 66 are lifted on Monday, Jan. 2
While people are out and about for the holidays, theyâre reminded the Washington Regional Alcohol Program will provide free cab rides home now through January 3, up to a $30 fare. Those who want to use the service should call 1-800-200-Taxi.
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