Virginia transportation officials for the first time Tuesday announced the price tag for the proposed High Occupancy Toll lanes on Interstate 95, and said they’re close to a deal to begin construction.
The lanes are expected to cost taxpayers $97 million, and the private firm that will construct and operate the lanes, Fluor-Transurban, $843 million. While all of the workings of a final public-private transportation contract are in place, the state and the private firm have yet to sign the deal but say it, along with the first phases of construction, could begin as early as spring.
“Virginia recognizes it must get the most out of its existing transportation assets and find innovative solutions to move people and freight more efficiently,” said Virginia Transportation Secretary Sean T. Connaughton. “With HOT lanes on both the Beltway and I-95, we will create a region-wide network of managed lanes that will enable travelers to get to and from some of Virginia’s most important employment centers and military sites.”
The planned lanes will stretch from Va. 610 in North Stafford to Edsall Road in Alexandria just inside the Capital Beltway, with project calling for the conversion of the existing HOV lanes between Dumfries and Alexandria to toll lanes. An additional two HOT lanes will be constructed from Dumfries to North Stafford, making for a nearly 30-mile transportation facility.
Original plans called for the HOT lanes to continue to the Pentagon, but Arlington officials sued and called the plan short-sighted, forcing state officials in February to acquiesce.
Electronic EZ Passes will be used in lieu of booths to collect tolls, which will vary depending upon traffic congestion in the lanes. Electronic signs will posted along the HOT lanes corridor with current toll rates so drivers can decided whether or not they want to use the facility.
Vehicles with three or more occupants will be able to use the lanes for free as they currently do on the current I-95/395 HOV system.
The new lane will come with an additional $200 million to expand bus service in Fairfax, Prince William, Spotsylvania and Stafford counties, as well as 3,000 new commuter parking spaces, officials said. Â The lanes will be operated by Fluor-Transurban for 73 years and then will be handed back over the state, according to the agreement.Â
Similar HOT lanes are currently being built on the Beltway from Springfield to Dulles Toll Road, and are scheduled to open late next year.
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Public safety officials recently gathered at Dunkin’ Donuts locations from Stafford County to Manassas to meet with community members in two separate events fostering engagement and conversation.
In Stafford County, Dunkin’ and Baskin-Robbins celebrated the grand reopening of their Next Generation restaurant on Warrenton Road with a unique community event on Saturday, February 8. Customers enjoyed free medium hot or iced coffee while participating in fun activities, including a prize wheel, face painting, and a visit from Dunkin’s mascot, Cuppy. As part of the event, local franchisee Pravina Bhalani hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and presented a $500 donation to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.
Stafford County Fire and Rescue expressed their appreciation, stating, “Thank you to Dunkin’ (Warrenton Road) for the invite to their reopening and thank you for the generous $500 contribution to the Stafford County Fire and Rescue Charitable Foundation.”
The Dale City Farmers Market is open Sundays year-round, rain or shine! From December to March, shop from 10 AM – 1 PM at 14090 Gemini Way, Dale City.
Discover a variety of local vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, specialty foods, and more! Whether you’re looking for farm-fresh ingredients, handcrafted treats, or unique artisanal products, the Dale City Farmers Market has something for everyone.
If you’re a Lab lover, Raven is waiting for you! This one-year-old Labrador mix is full of energy and enthusiasm, just as you’d expect from her breed. She has experience living with kids, cats, and dogs, making her a great fit for an active and pet-friendly household.
Raven was returned to the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter because she does best in a home with a fenced yard. Without one, she has a tendency to wander, so her ideal home includes a secure space or committed leash walks.
Dr. Janet L. S. Brown-Page has been appointed to the Central Rappahannock Regional Library Board of Trustees to represent Stafford County. She replaces Mary Becelia, who was removed in 2024. The Board oversees library policies across Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, Stafford, and Westmoreland counties. Brown-Page, a retired federal senior manager and mediation expert, brings extensive experience in human and community relations. Her appointment follows the censure of Stafford Supervisor Monica Gary, accused of political maneuvering in Becelia’s removal.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
