Stuck in Traffic? New Signs Will Predict Travel Times on I-66

Coming soon to I-66, near the Route 28 exit to Centreville and at two other locations: electronic signs that display estimated travel times. 

The signs will show the travel times on weekdays from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. and weekends from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. 

The electronic signs will arrive on Aug. 22 and be placed at:

• I-66 E, just east of Rt 28, to display the travel time to I-495
• I-66 W, just west of Rt 50, to display travel time to Gainesville
• I-66 W, just west of Rt 7100, showing travel time to Gainesville

Officials hope that the project will give commuters the option to take another route if delays are severe. The Washington Post's "Dr. Gridlock" says that the traffic controllers at the Public Safety Transportation Operations Center will monitor and refresh travel times for the boards every five minutes. 

The program is the latest attempt to ease the heavy rush hour traffic along I-66. Recently commuters were allowed to start driving along the shoulder of the road during rush hour. 

VDOT plans to add additional signs on I-66, I-95, I-395, and on other highways throughout the commonwealth if the pilot project is successful.