VDOT public meetings start soon—help us make sure biking isn’t left behind.
FABB urges all riders and trail supporters to attend one of three upcoming in-person meetings about the I-495 Southside Express Lanes Study. We need you there to speak up for safe, connected bike infrastructure as part of this massive highway expansion project.
The study looks at extending Express Lanes 11 miles along I-495, from the Springfield interchange to the Woodrow Wilson Bridge and into Prince George’s County, MD. FABB doesn’t support more express lanes—but if this project moves forward, we’re fighting to ensure it includes a high-quality shared-use trail from the start.
Just like with the I-66 Parallel Trail, your voice can make a difference. The more VDOT hears from people who bike, the more pressure there is to build a meaningful trail—not just promise a “recreational path” someone else has to fund later.
Why it matters:
- A trail would fill a major gap in the regional bike network.
- It would offer a real alternative to driving—reducing traffic and pollution.
- It supports Fairfax County’s own plans for more sustainable, active transportation.
Let’s hold VDOT to its stated goals of offering “additional travel choices” and “improving safety.” A trail alongside this project is not optional—it’s essential.
Public Meeting Details (Open House format starting at 6:30 pm, presentation at 7 pm):
- Tuesday, April 1: West Potomac High School, 6500 Quander Rd., Alexandria
- Monday, April 7: Thomas A. Edison High School, 5801 Franconia Rd., Alexandria
- Wednesday, April 9: Nannie J. Lee Memorial Rec Center, 1108 Jefferson St., Alexandria
Can’t attend in person? Visit www.vdot.virginia.gov/495southside to review materials and submit comments online by Monday, April 21, 2025 via:
- Online form
- Email: [email protected]
- Mail: Michelle Shropshire, P.E., VDOT Northern Virginia Megaprojects Director, 4975 Alliance Drive, Fairfax, VA 22030
Let’s make sure Fairfax County’s bike future isn’t paved over. Show up, speak up, and help us build momentum for better bike infrastructure.
