As part of the 495 Express Lanes Northern Extension (495 NEXT) project, a new Georgetown Pike Bridge over I-495 is being built in phases to keep traffic moving throughout construction. Over the weekend of Aug.16-19, all travel lanes on Georgetown Pike Bridge will be shifted to a new northern portion of the bridge so that work can begin on a new southern portion. Drivers are advised to stay away from the vicinity of the Georgetown Pike and I-495 interchange all weekend, as lanes will be reduced and Beltway ramps closed with detours in place.
What to Expect:
• At 9 p.m., Friday, August 16, lane and ramp closures and work will begin. By no later than 5 a.m., Monday, August 19, all lanes on Georgetown Pike will be open on the new northern section of the bridge, and all Beltway ramps will be reopened. If needed, work will be rescheduled for the weekend of Aug. 23-26.
• During this weekend, Georgetown Pike Bridge over I-495 will be reduced from five to two lanes (one lane open in each direction), and all ramps between the Beltway and Georgetown Pike will be closed with detours in effect.
• These closures are needed for crews to complete paving, lane markings, ramp tie-ins and other work to implement the shift.
• Enhanced police presence will be in place throughout affected locations.
• Work is weather dependent, and will be rescheduled for the weekend of Aug. 23-26 if necessary
Why an Extended Weekend of Work?
Switching traffic to the new section of the Georgetown Pike Bridge over a one-weekend period shortens the duration of impacts to local traffic. The extended work hours over the weekend will enable crews needed time to build up pavement transition areas, where there is an elevation difference ranging from three to six feet.
What Should Travelers Do?
To avoid expected congestion and backups on Georgetown Pike near the Beltway, travelers are urged to stay away from the area and take alternate routes. Drivers affected by the Beltway ramp closures should slow down, use caution and follow the signed detour routes.
What Happens Next:
After all Georgetown Pike Bridge traffic is shifted to the newly opened northern section of the bridge, crews will demolish the existing southern portion of the bridge. A new southern portion is expected to open in mid-2025, with traffic shifted into its final configuration on the overall new bridge in late 2025