New ramp links I-395 and Seminary Road

The new ramp on I-395, with the Mark Center in the background. [VDOT]

The Virginia Department of Transportation opened the new ramp linking Interstate 395 High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes to Seminary Road in Alexandria Jan. 11. The new ramp is part of a series of projects aimed at easing traffic congestion for commuters working at the Mark Center, which is gaining some 6,400 additional employees due to the federal base realignment and closure process. 

The new ramp is only open to vehicles with three or more occupants and buses. It will reverse directions according to the same schedule as the HOV lanes.

It connects the I-395 HOV lanes to Seminary Road on the top level of the Seminary Road interchange. VDOT is also putting a new traffic signal, turn lanes, and dedicated left-turn lane there for drivers heading to the Mark Center.

The new Seminary Road bridge over I-395 opened Jan. 6, and a new pedestrian bridge over I-395 is slated to open next month.