Politics & Government

Traffic Fix Coming to Route 7 Westbound Near Beltway

New lane markings and reconfiguration could make for a smoother commute.

An unusual lane configuration has created confusion and delays along Route 7 westbound near the Capital Beltway, and VDOT has plans to fix the problem, officials say.

“By reconfiguring the markings and slightly narrowing the lanes we should be able to eliminate the confusion and aggravation motorists are encountering,” said VDOT traffic engineer Randy Dittberner. 

The changes should happen this week, with work done by Thursday, weather permitting, according to a VDOT release.

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Here are the changes:

·         Currently, motorists on westbound Route 7 approaching the traffic signal at Magarity Road use the right lane only to turn right on Magarity Road or Lisle Avenue. After the change is made, motorists destined for I-495 northbound will use this lane as well.

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·         Past the Magarity Road signal, the right lane will drop onto the ramp to northbound I-495.

·         Adding this new “drop” lane will require the travel lanes to be narrowed to 11 feet, but this width is about the same as motorists are accustomed to on other parts of Route 7.

·         Motorists headed for the I-495 Express Lanes or the I-495 southbound lanes will not notice any changes as a result of the new marking layout.

“During the first few weeks after implementation, drivers should use extra caution and be prepared for unexpected lane changes,” said Dittberner.


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