Drivers near Tysons should expect major delays on I-495 this weekend due to construction work on the express lanes project

Starting Friday night, they’re shutting down a bunch of lanes to put in some huge steel girders for the 495 Express Lanes project. It’s called “Big Beam Weekend,” and it’s going to cause some serious traffic headaches.
Northbound I-495 will drop from six lanes to just two for about a mile. That’s from the Route 7 interchange to just past Lewinsville Road. So, yeah, expect some delays.
Also, if you’re coming from the Dulles Toll Road, the ramp to northbound I-495 will be closed. They’ve got detours set up, but it’s still going to be a hassle. If you’re heading to Dulles Airport, the access highway will be open, but give yourself extra time.
The whole project is a big deal, costing around $660 million. They’re extending the express lanes by 2.5 miles and adding new connections. Construction started back in March 2022, and they’re hoping to wrap it all up by 2026.
To stay in the loop, check out VA 511 for real-time updates. Better safe than sorry, right?