Pleasant Valley Road Delays Through June

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) reports that on Rt. 609 West (Pleasant Valley Road) in Loudoun County, from Lavin Lane to Wade Drive (Rt. 873E/W), motorists can expect potential delays through June 30 due to bridge work.

There will be a permanent one lane of travel across the bridge with yield signs in each direction.

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Closure of Smith Switch Road

You may have noticed the closure of Smith Switch Road recently.

According to Supervisor Lori Water's Broad Run District Newsletter, "the developer in that area is paving the portion from the W & OD Trail south to Chilum Place. Due to some mismarked utilities and weather delays, the project is projected to be completed by the end of May. A portion of the road north of the trail will remain unpaved, as there is currently no funding or developer proffer to pave it."

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Another One Year Extension for HOV Plates in Virginia

According to the Washington Post, Virginia Gov. Robert F. Mc­Don­nell has signed the now-traditional, one-year extension of the temporary law allowing solo drivers to use the lanes meant for carpoolers as long as they have the proper clean fuel license plates.

"But there is an important difference this year: Drivers who want to take advantage of this legal end-run around the carpooling requirement to drive on Interstate 66 High Occupancy Vehicle lanes need to buy their hybrids and get the clean fuel tags by June 30. After that, they can still buy hybrids, but they’ll risk getting a ticket if they drive in the I-66 HOV lanes. Police look for the proper tags, not for the type of vehicle.

"This change in the I-66 rules that grandfathers in clean fuel license plates issued before a certain date and then cuts off newcomers is similar to a provision that took effect in 2006 regarding hybrid driving on the I-95/395 HOV lanes. That was a concession to the concerns of carpoolers and the Virginia Department of Transportation that hybrids with solo drivers were on their way to clogging the HOV lanes, diminishing the incentive to carpool for a faster trip.

The rules for clean fuel tags are online on the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles Web site. The annual fee for clean-fuel plates is $25.

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I-66 Pavement Rehab Begins April 4

For Loudoun County commuters using I-66...

In April, the Virginia Department of Transportation begins a $48 million project to repair and resurface six and a half miles of badly deteriorated pavement on Interstate 66 between the Capital Beltway and Route 50 in Fairfax County.

According to a VDOT press release, to minimize impacts to motorists, all lane closures will take place at night — between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., Sunday through Thursday nights. The project will be complete in the fall of 2012.

Beginning April 4, two of three lanes on eastbound I-66 will be closed weeknights from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. between the Beltway and Route 50.

Beginning Monday, April 18, the same closures will begin 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. weeknights on westbound I-66 between the Beltway and Route 50. Crews will limit the work zones to about two miles at a time. The closures in both directions will continue Sunday through Thursday nights through November 2012, weather permitting.

Starting in late May, periodic overnight ramp closures on eastbound I-66 will also be scheduled as part of the pavement work. Ramp closures and detours will be announced by VDOT well in advance.

Motorists should expect delays overnight in this area, and consider using alternate routes such as Routes 50, 236 or 123. Overhead and portable message signs will alert motorists well in advance of the work zones to ensure adequate time to exit at alternate routes.

VDOT reports that crews will first remove and patch sections of the concrete pavement through late summer, then pave the surface with new asphalt. Fort Myer Construction Company is the contractor on the project.

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Rising Gas Prices Could Mean Additional Public Transportation Trips

A recent American Public Transportation Association study predicts that as gas prices rise, Americans will turn to public transportation in record numbers. Many public transit systems across the country are already seeing double-digit percentage increases as compared to this time last year.

The analysis reveals if regular gas prices reach $4 a gallon across the nation, as many experts have forecasted, an additional 670 million passenger trips could be expected, resulting in more than 10.8 billion trips per year.

If pump prices jump to $5 a gallon, the report predicts an additional 1.5 billion passenger trips can be expected, resulting in more than 11.6 billion trips per year.

And if prices were to soar to $6 a gallon, expectations go as high as an additional 2.7 billion passenger trips, resulting in more than 12.9 billion trips per year.

What about you? Will you increase your rides on, or begin taking public transportation? Let us know; comment below.

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Racing May Have Contributed to Student’s Accident

From the Loudoun Patch...

Witnesses told investigators from the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office that the 19-year-old who was seriously injured in car accident while leaving Dominion High School around 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 22, appeared to be racing another vehicle.

Driving his 1998 Honda Accord, Raqeeb Khan headed northbound on Potomac View Road. A witness reported to Loudoun investigators that Khan was in the left lane and appeared to be racing another vehicle, or at least speeding, when a 2001 Audi A4 driven by a Dominion student drifted into Khan’s lane.

Somewhere between South Cottage Road and River Meadows Drive, Khan swerved to avoid the Audi and lost control of his car, according to a Sheriff’s Office report. He then crossed the northbound lanes, struck a tree and rolled onto its roof, according to the report.

A helicopter transported Khan to Inova Fairfax Hospital. While serious, he is expected to recover from injuries. Three passengers in Khan’s vehicle who also attend Dominion were not injured.

Deputies charged the 16-year-old driver of the Audi with reckless driving.

The accident remains under investigation. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Deputy S. D. Allen of the Accident Reconstruction Unit at 703-737-8308.

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Transportation Updates from the Catoctin District

Here's an update on transportation issues from the March e-newsletter of Sally Kurtz, Catoctin District Supervisor, Loudoun County Board of Supervisors.

Project Status
Route 7 – East Market Street to South King Street – After briefing the Leesburg Town Council and Board of Supervisors at a joint meeting in October, the scope of the project has been reduced to include only the Sycolin Road overpass. The consultant has been given direction accordingly.

Route 7 Climbing Lane/West Market Street to Route 9 – Preliminary engineering is proceeding based on the design presented to the adjacent neighborhoods at community meetings held last summer, with modifications to address concerns about emergency access and egress. Once evaluations are completed on the feasibility of improved egress at Roxbury Hall Road and Beacon Hill Drive, work on the NEPA document can begin. The design public hearing is anticipated for late 2011 or early 2012.

Lovettsville Bike Trail – VDOT continues to refine the project plans. Upon completion, work on the NEPA document will begin.

Bridge on Gleedsville Road over Sycolin – The title sheet and supporting documents have been submitted to the VDOT Central Office for signature. ROW acquisition is expected to begin in the January/February timeframe.

Evergreen Mill Road/Ryan Road Intersection Improvements – VDOT has determined that the project qualifies for Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) funding. Location and Design staff members are coordinating to initiate the design process using one of VDOT’s on-call consultants.

Riverside Parkway (County Project – Revenue Sharing) – Notice to proceed was issued to the consultant and a kick-off meeting was held with VDOT on October 8, 2010. The consultant is moving forward to establish design parameters. The first task has been to establish a typical section and evaluate right-of-way impacts.

Gum Spring Road HSIP Project (CAD TBD) – The location survey has been completed and the design is underway. The project is coordinating with Luck Stone Quarry regarding the relocation of Gum Spring Road to the south.

Crosstrails Boulevard and Kincaid Boulevard – Design work is underway. A citizen’s information meeting was held on November 8, 2010 at Heritage High School. Subsequent meetings have been held with citizens from Kincaid Forest, with some residents expressing concerns regarding cut-through traffic. At its December 15th meeting, the Finance Committee approved staff’s request for a change order to complete an archaeological survey on the southernmost segment of the proposed alignment. Staff are working with the appropriate authorities to gain entry to several parcels in that area that to date have been inaccessible.

Allder School Road – (County Project) – Alternatives analysis/design underway. A design waiver (FSM Waiver) has been submitted to B&D for hydrologic issues associated with the bridge. This will need to be approved by the County before VDOT will respond to design waivers submitted to VDOT staff. If this issue can be resolved in a timely manner, a design public hearing may be possible for February or March, 2011.

The Woods Road – A meeting of “The Woods Road Realignment Committee” was held on December 1st. At that meeting, staff conveyed to the Committee its plan to have VDOT take the lead on the project. Committee members in attendance expressed support for VDOT’s involvement and agreed to the preferred study corridor previously developed for the project. This information has been conveyed to VDOT.

Traffic Engineering Items
Multi-Way Stop request at Potomac Station Drive – VDOT has stated that multi-way stop signs can be put at either end of Binkley Circle or at Malloch and Cardston. A speed study was approved by the State Traffic Engineer’s Office for 45 mph on May 10, 2010. Given the results of the speed study, multi-way stop signs cannot be installed under traffic calming criteria. OTS staff will review the project in light of the speed study and will determine whether multi-way stops can be installed under operational criteria.

Remember, if you have concerns about specific roadway conditions, like potholes or dangerous ditches brought on by the latest winter conditions, call 1-800-FOR-ROAD (1-800-367-7623).

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So What's the Speed Limit on a Dirt Road in Loudoun County?

Did you know that dirt and/or stone roads, as defined by the Virginia Traffic Code, are 35 MPH zones unless otherwise posted. If there are no VDOT speed limit signs posted, it is to be considered a 35 MPH zone.

* Thanks to the Loudoun County's Sheriff's Office for providing this tip to our readers.

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Registration Now Open for Bike to Work Day

Registration is now open for Bike to Work Day, scheduled for Friday, May 20.

Loudoun County will host two of the 50 pit stops throughout the region.

More information, including how to reserve your T-shirt for this fun, free event, is online at www.loudoun.gov/biketowork.

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How to Report Reckless Driving in Loudoun County

According to the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, any resident can call the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office Emergency Communications Center at 703-777-1021 to report a reckless driver and have a Patrol Deputy respond to the area.

If the driver is causing a imminent danger/threat on the roadway, call 9-1-1.

There is also a process for a citizen to take to secure a warrant for reckless driving under VA State Code 46.2-852 (http://leg1.state.va.us/000/cod/46.2-852.HTM).

According to Kraig Troxell, public information officer with the Loudoun County Sheriff's Office, there are several provisions that must be met by the reporting party, as this is a criminal process not an infraction. This requires an in person meeting with a deputy as well as the reporting party being able to identify the driver etc. Under these circumstances the reporting party must secure the warrant and go forth in court. Reckless Driving is a class one misdemeanor with a penalty of up to 365 days in jail, loss of license and up to a $2,500 fine.

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Construction of Rail to Dulles to Halt Service Between East Falls Church and West Falls Church This Weekend

There will be no train service between the East Falls Church and West Falls Church-VT/UVA Metrorail stations this weekend to allow the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project to continue major construction activities that will eventually connect the new rail line to the existing Metrorail system.

From 10 p.m. tonight, Friday, March 18 to closing (midnight) on Sunday, March 20, the Orange Line will be split in two sections, the first running from Vienna/Fairfax-GMU to West Falls Church-VT/UVA Metrorail stations, and the second between the New Carrollton and East Falls Church Metrorail stations. The East Falls Church and West Falls Church-VT/UVA Metrorail stations will remain open.

To help riders get through the work zone, Metro will operate free shuttle buses between the East Falls Church and West Falls Church-VT/UVA Metrorail stations. Customers should add an extra 30 minutes into their travel plans if they need to pass through the work zone.

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Don't Depend on Dumb Luck Tonight (St. Patrick's Day)

Here is some good advice from the Virginia State Police... Loudoun County motorists are warned not to depend on dumb luck by drinking and driving this St. Patrick?s Day (today!).

The St. Patrick?s Day holiday has become a popular night out and theme for weekend festivities with friends and family. Unfortunately, due to the large number of drunk drivers, the holiday has also become a dangerous one.

On St. Patrick?s Day 2009, 37 percent of the drivers and motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes nationwide had a blood alcohol level (BAC) of .08 or above, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). National statistics also show that in 2009, there were 103 traffic fatalities on St. Patrick?s Day.

To help safeguard Virginia?s highways and motorists from impaired drivers, Virginia State Police will be deploying DUI patrols and checkpoints throughout the Commonwealth on St. Patrick?s Day and continuing through the weekend.

Loudoun County drives are encouraged to take the following easy steps, for a safe St. Patrick?s Day:

• Plan a safe way home before the festivities begin.
• Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home.
• If you?re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation so you are sure to get home safely.
• Motorists in Loudoun County, and Northern Virginia, can take advantage of the Washington Regional Alcohol Program?s (WRAP) Sober Ride program at 1-800-200-TAXI.
• If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, don?t hesitate to dial #77 to notify your nearest Virginia State Police Emergency Communications Center.
• And remember, if you know someone who is about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to get to where they are going safely.

Let's be safe out there folks!

19 Percent Of Drivers Say They Use The Internet While Driving

Results from an online survey conducted by State Farm® released earlier this month show an alarming number of drivers who use the Web while driving.

In November, 2010, State Farm conducted a small “pulse check” to dig deeper into the growing use of smartphones among drivers. Survey respondents consisted of 912 drivers who met the following criteria: had a valid driver’s license, reported driving at least one hour per week, and owned a smart phone.

Of these drivers, 19 percent admitted to using the Internet while driving. The top five Web-based activities they engage in are:

• Finding/reading driving directions,
• Reading email,
• Looking up/referencing specific information of immediate interest,
• Looking at/reading social networking sites (Facebook, Twitter, etc.),
• Composing/sending e-mail.

Most respondents who said they use the Internet while driving reported that they engage in these activities when stopped at a stop light or stopped in heavy traffic. They also commonly said they access the Internet when driving alone, during daylight hours, or on long drives on the interstate.

Listen up Loudoun County drivers... this isn't just about answering the phone while driving, or even texting. This is about surfing the Web while you're operating a motor vehicle. Let's not let that happen on our roads, okay? Let's keep our hands on the steering wheel and our minds on the road... and teach your kids to do the same!

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Construction of Rail to Dulles to Halt Service Between East Falls Church and West Falls Church This Weekend

There will be no train service between the East Falls Church and West Falls Church-VT/UVA Metrorail stations this weekend, March 18 to 20, to allow the Dulles Corridor Metrorail Project to continue major construction activities that will eventually connect the new rail line to the existing Metrorail system.

From 10 p.m., Friday, March 18 to closing (midnight) on Sunday, March 20, the Orange Line will be split in two sections, the first running from Vienna/Fairfax-GMU to West Falls Church-VT/UVA Metrorail stations, and the second between the New Carrollton and East Falls Church Metrorail stations. The East Falls Church and West Falls Church-VT/UVA Metrorail stations will remain open.

To help riders get through the work zone, Metro will operate free shuttle buses between the East Falls Church and West Falls Church-VT/UVA Metrorail stations. Customers should add an extra 30 minutes into their travel plans if they need to pass through the work zone.

Read more.

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VDOT's Pothole Hunter

Phil Itkiwk, is the Pothole Hunter for the Virginia Department of Transportation.



Visit www.virginiadot.org or call 800-367-7623 to report a pothole in Loudoun County.

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Be Careful of Water on County Roadways

Loudoun County public safety officials remind motorists to be aware of the force and power of water.  

Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm-related hazard. Why? The main reason is that people underestimate the force and power of water.  

Many deaths occur in automobiles as people and their vehicles are swept downstream. Many of these drownings are preventable, but too many people continue to drive around barriers warning that roads are flooded. 

Whether you are driving or walking, if you come to a flooded road, stop and do not cross. With water across the roadway, you cannot always determine the depth of the water or the condition of the road under the water. Six inches of moving water can knock a person down and a mere two feet of water can move a large vehicle such as a bus.  

More information is online at www.loudoun.gov/oem.

Roads Affected by Rain

The Loudoun County Sheriffs Office reports that the following roads are currently impacted by high water: 

- Edwards Ferry Road just east of Battlefield Parkway NE 

- Drymill Road SW in the area of Lee Avenue SW 

Motorists should use caution and avoid these areas until the water clears.

Morning Road Closures

According to the Loudoun County Sheriffs office, Shreve Mill Road between the Dulles Greenway and Sycolin Road; Alder School Road between Freemont Lane and Berlin Turnpike; and Gant Lane off Cochran Mill Road are closed due to flooding.

In addition, there may be some slippery conditions this morning on some Loudoun County roads, as well as other roads experiencing flooding, high water or standing water. Drivers are advised to use caution.

Question About a Traffic Light on Route 28

Loudoun County Traffic received the following question and thought it might be beneficial to pass it along to the rest of our readers. Following the question is the latest information according to the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT).

"What is the status of the light on Route 28 north and Steeplechase Drive? I get caught at the light or the backup from the light everyday on my commute home. For the life of me I can't understand why it's there. Steeplechase traffic can use Atlantic Blvd. and Nokes Blvd. to go north on Rt. 28."

According to VDOT, this is the sole remaining traffic signal on Route 28 within the Route 28 Corridor Improvements project. The next signal to the south is at the E. C. Lawrence Park entrance in Fairfax County, just north of I-66.

There is a plan to eventually remove the signal at Steeplechase. It is currently a right-in, right-out entrance, mostly for vehicles entering Route 28, since there is no acceleration lane as motorists enter northbound Route 28. Because there are no traffic signals upstream, in heavy traffic it is likely that there would not be sufficient gaps for a safe merge. But, the signal will be removed when Atlantic Boulevard is completed and open to traffic, currently scheduled for the end of 2011.

Commonwealth Transportation Board item on access at Steeplechase.

Thanks to VDOT personnel for providing this update to the readers of Loudoun County Traffic.

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Kincaid Forest Residents‏ Concerned Over Proposed New Road

The Loudoun Times reports that residents of Kincaid Forest are strongly against a proposed new road to go through Kincaid Forest along Kincaid Boulevard, which is now a dead end, because of the additional road because it would create more traffic.

"During a March 1 public information meeting at Cool Spring Elementary over the county’s Government Support Center amended plan, residents brought up their concerns over a new road that would directly affect traffic through their neighborhood.

"Included in the plan, is more than 600 acres of land where the county will put the Philip A. Bolen Park. The remaining land will house a new Government Support Center that will include a juvenile detention center, warehouses, new training centers, and other governmental offices and facilities."

The new road is to link Sycolin Road to a new entrance on Route 7.

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Video -- Gas Saving Tips

Watch the below video as Cars.com Editor-in-Chief Patrick Olsen goes over some of the best practices/tips for saving fuel, an always important topic, especially as gas prices are seemingly back on the rise again.



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