I gather that if I stay in the regular lanes and avoid the express lanes, nothing has changed.
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The number of lanes on Route 66 between the 495 beltway and DC remains the same - 2 lanes eastbound and 2 lanes westbound. No new lanes were constructed.
During the scheduled hours there are no free lanes, as they temporarily become “express” lanes with toll for solo drivers.
Simultaneously they are designated HOV-2 for which you will need an E-Z Pass “Flex” device set to HOV mode to travel toll free. This will change to HOV-3 in 2022.
The applicable hours and direction are as follows: Monday through Friday - 5:30 to 9:30 a.m. Eastbound, and 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. Westbound. The lanes are free with no tolling or HOV requirements at all other times.
http://www.66expresslanes.org/
Yes, you are right about 66. It’s 495 where i have a choice.