It’s the busiest travel time of the year and already drivers have packed area roadways to head over the hills and through the woods.
AAA Mid-Atlantic says more than 1 million people in the Washington area will travel more than 50 miles away from home this Thanksgiving holiday – about a 1.3 percent increase in the number of travelers over the same time last year.
One of the ways they’ll be getting where they’re going – the 495 Express Lanes on the Capital Beltway which opened last weekend, states AAA Mid-Atlantic in a press release:
Chances are, the brand spanking new Express Lanes will be jammed with Thanksgiving travelers. On top of that, the competition will be fierce for every inch of lane miles on every highway, thoroughfare, toll road, alternate-route, street, side-road, back-road, and exit ramp in the region. They will be filled to the hilt with nine-out-of- ten holiday travelers (an estimated 977, 600 persons) originating in the metro area, projects AAA Mid-Atlantic.
The automobile agency adds travelers will also take to planes and trains this weekend.
But for those driving on Virginia’s highways, state police said there will be more troopers on the road, and they urge motorists to slow down and to move over when they see emergency services vehicles on the side of the road.
Here’s more in a statement from Virginia State Police:
Virginia State Police will have 75 percent of its uniformed workforce on patrol during peak travel periods during the Thanksgiving holiday. With the increase in emergency personnel presence, motorists are reminded to comply with Virginia’s “Move Over” law, which requires drivers to change to another travel lane or, when not able to, to cautiously pass emergency personnel stopped on the side of the road. In 2010, the law was amended to include highway maintenance vehicles and tow trucks equipped with flashing amber lights.
To heighten motorists’ awareness of the state law, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) recently installed additional signs statewide. Currently, there are 33 signs positioned along every major interstate in Virginia. Most of the signs were in place by the end of September.
Last year in Virginia, a total of 11 people were killed in traffic crashes during the Thanksgiving weekend. That was up one from the year before.
To help drivers get out of traffic this holiday weekend, the Virginia Department of Transportation suspended all roadwork today at noon through noon Monday.
Check real-time traffic conditions by visiting Virginia’s 511 service.
Recent Stories
The Prince William Board of County Supervisors has approved an additional $472,000 in federal funding to advance the Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project, a critical initiative to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility in Occoquan. The funding comes through the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement Program, bringing the project closer to completion.
The project, which has evolved since its inception, will construct 675 feet of sidewalk along Ellicott Street, connecting Mill Street to Poplar Alley and extending toward Union Street. It also includes Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ramps and crossings to address accessibility concerns. The initiative aims to create a safer, more pedestrian-friendly connection between the town’s historic and business districts and the planned Occoquan Greenway trail.
“The Ellicott Street Sidewalk Project is one of several pedestrian improvement efforts we’ve pursued over the years,” said Occoquan Mayor Earnie Porta. “This specific project will create a safer, more contiguous connection to Mill Street and the town’s historic and business district.”
All Central Rappahannock Regional Library (CRRL) locations are scheduled to open at 1 p.m on Tuesday, January 7, 2025. This delayed opening is due to ongoing impacts from Winter Storm Blair. Library officials advise that opening times may be adjusted further if weather or road conditions worsen.
The CRRL serves residents in Fredericksburg, Stafford, Spotsylvania, and Westmoreland counties, offering various services beyond traditional book lending. The library system provides access to technology, community events, educational programs, and resources like homework help, job search tools, and genealogical research. Its facilities include multiple branches, mobile libraries, and digital collections that can be accessed online.
Patrons are encouraged to check the library’s website or social media channels for the most up-to-date information on hours and services.
Looking for a musical treat this January? St. George’s Episcopal Church in historic downtown Fredericksburg is hosting a free concert on Sunday, January 19, at 3 p.m., featuring local favorite Hazel Run.
This talented folk group, comprised of Linda LaFave, Karen Richardson, and Stuart Whitford, blends Americana, soul, and rock influences to create a sound you won’t want to miss. While the concert is free, donations are gratefully accepted at the door.
St. George’s is known for its beautiful music in a beautiful space, with a concert series that celebrates both local and visiting talent. You’re warmly invited to enjoy the music and experience the welcoming community at St. George’s.
Stafford County Public Schools announced that Nevaeh Lewis of Colonial Forge High School and Emma Siegmund of Rodney Thompson Middle School have been selected for prestigious roles in Virginia’s legislative programs. Lewis will serve as a House of Delegates Page, while Siegmund has been chosen as a Senate Page. These appointments provide hands-on opportunities to learn about government and leadership during the upcoming General Assembly session in Richmond beginning January 8.
Superintendent Dr. Daniel W. Smith praised the students, stating that these roles will help develop leadership skills and inspire civic engagement. Both programs include working with legislators, participating in committee meetings, and engaging in civics and leadership education. Pages will also take part in mock legislative sessions and community service projects.
Siegmund, a high-achieving middle schooler with a 4.0+ GPA, is active in Model United Nations, the National Junior Honors Society, and other academic programs and is the daughter of county school board chair Maureen Siegmund. Lewis, a talented artist and performer, is also deeply involved in her church and community.
Start 2024 on the right foot by prioritizing your mental health and well-being. At Peaceful Mind Solutions, we understand how challenging life can be—whether it’s managing stress from work, family dynamics, or navigating the complexities of the world around us. Our team is here to help you create balance and find the peace you deserve.
We’re offering a free 15-minute consultation to help you explore how therapy can work for you. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, looking for support, or just want to talk things through, this is the perfect opportunity to take that first step toward a healthier, happier you.
Scheduling is simple and convenient. Choose the option that works best for you:
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.
Featuring:
