Construction on I-66 will improve the corridor in the long term, but will also make commuting a challenge over the next four years. To encourage residents and workers to use different modes of transportation on the I-66 Express Lanes, the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has partnered with neighboring jurisdictions to share new discounts on public transportation systems.
New Incentives for I-66
Starting this summer, travelers on I-66 can take advantage of reduced fares, rewards, and new bus lines.
Half-price fares on PRTC Omniride bus routes
The Potomac and Rappahannock Transportation Commission (PRTC) Omniride will offer half-price fares for commuters who use the bus routes from Gainesville and Manassas. The ride to Arlington will now cost commuters $3.45, instead of $6.90.
$1 bus fares
Commuters can now ride select Fairfax Connector bus routes for $1. Discounted bus routes serve the Vienna Metro Station and carry commuters from Park and Ride lots to the Metro.
New commuter bus services
Beginning June 25, a new commuter bus line will provide riders from Front Royal with a new option to reach Arlington, and Washington, DC. Two trips during morning and evening rush hours, will transport commuters to Rosslyn Metro station and Crystal City station in Arlington, as well as Metro Center station and L' Enfant Plaza in Washington, DC. These stops will serve as the pick-up locations for the evening commute as well. The buses will be equipped with Wi-Fi, and charging stations for phones and laptops.
Daily ticket cost: $25. Monthly ticket cost: $440. Commuter benefits also apply.
Other Great Options for I-66
Vanpool rewards
Vanpools are a great way to commute for individuals who live 15 or more miles from work and have a consistent schedule. Commuters can save up to $260 per month when they join a vanpool and use their transit benefit to pay for the cost of the commute.
Additional incentives: VDOT will also offer free preloaded SmarTrip cards and $350 gas cards for vans with 10 or more passengers
Carpool benefits
Carpools offers a range of benefits to both employers and employees alike. Commuters who carpool can save up to $130 per month through Commuter Connections’ Pool Rewards.
Additional incentives: Riders who start a three-person carpool on I-66 can receive an additional $100 cash reward through 2020. Flextime rewards are also available from Commuter Connections if commuters are able and willing to shift their commute to off-peak hours. This is available for those traveling I-66 eastbound at VA-267.
Telework incentives
Telework!VA offers employers assistance to develop and to implement telework programs for companies. Employers in Northern Virginia that establish telework schedules for at least 10 employees are eligible to receive a new* subsidy of up to $10,000.
*This subsidy is different than the Telework Tax Credit. A company may only receive one credit or subsidy per year.
Start Your New Commute
With new financial incentives for I-66, it’s worth re-thinking the long commute. Each option listed above allows commuters to avoid paying dynamic tolls on the I-66 Express Lanes.
Individual commuters
If you’re an individual hoping to take advantage of new incentives but aren’t sure where to start, connect with Arlington Transportation Partners and request a new commute.
Businesses & properties
If your business or property is ready to help your employees or residents travel I-66, download our transit benefit trifold to better understand how $260 can positively impact commutes.
Photo Credit: Sam Kittner/Kittner.com for Arlington Transportation Partners
