By: David Griffin, Marketing & Communications, Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce
On Thursday, September 11th, members of the Mount Vernon Springfield Chamber of Commerce gathered for a Business Breakfast dedicated to transportation, one of the most critical drivers of economic development in Fairfax County. Local and regional transportation leaders shared updates on major projects that will shape mobility, redevelopment, and business opportunities in the years ahead.
We extend our thanks to our speakers:
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Virginia Bulger, Government and Community Affairs Manager, Transurban
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Vanessa Aguayo, Transportation Planner, Fairfax County Department of Transportation (FCDOT)
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Michelle Holland, Northern Virginia Megaprojects Communications Manager, VDOT
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Mark VanZandt, P.E., Location & Design, VDOT
We were also pleased to welcome one of our newest members, Jonathan Fitch of Renaissance of Annandale.
Richmond Highway Corridor Improvements (VDOT)
Mark VanZandt of VDOT provided an overview of the Richmond Highway Corridor Improvements, a $505 million project widening Route 1 from four to six lanes between Jeff Todd Way and Sherwood Hall Lane.
Key elements include:
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New sidewalks and separated cycle tracks on both sides of the highway
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Three bridge replacements
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Noise walls, stormwater management, and upgraded utilities
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Right-of-way acquisition and property demolitions already underway
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Coordination with Fairfax County to prepare for Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lanes
The project is split into phases to accelerate progress. Construction is expected to begin on Phase 2C in 2027, followed by Phase 2B in 2028 and Phase 2A in 2029.
[View Richmond Highway Corridor Improvements presentation slides ➤]
Richmond Highway Bus Rapid Transit (FCDOT)
Vanessa Aguayo shared updates on Fairfax County’s new Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system.
Highlights include:
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A 7.4-mile route from Fort Belvoir to Huntington Station
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Nine modern stations with far-side boarding
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21 battery electric, 60-foot buses
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Two-way cycle tracks and sidewalks
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Coordination with the Federal Transit Administration to keep the project on track
The BRT is expected to be open to the public in fall 2033, aligning with the Richmond Highway widening schedule. Fairfax County is also working to fill a funding gap of $115 million through a combination of regional and local sources. Community input continues to play an important role, with opportunities for local artists to design windscreen panels for stations.
More information and updates can be found at fairfaxcounty.gov/transportation.
[View Richmond Highway BRT presentation slides ➤]
I-495 Southside Express Lanes Study (VDOT)
Michelle Holland provided updates on the I-495 Southside Express Lanes Study, which explores extending express lanes on the 11-mile southern section of the Capital Beltway which is last section of I-495 in Virginia without express lanes today.
The recommended alternative includes:
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Two buffer-separated express lanes in each direction
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Funding for new bus transit services and carpool incentives
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More than seven miles of new bicycle and pedestrian facilities
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Preserving space on the Woodrow Wilson Bridge for a future Metrorail extension
Benefits include up to 2,400 more people moved per peak hour, travel times up to 19 minutes faster on general-purpose lanes, and over 100% faster westbound speeds during the morning rush. Inclusion of this project in the region’s long-range Visualize 2050 plan is essential for advancing design and securing funding.
[View I-495 Southside Express Lanes Study presentation slides ➤]
Why These Projects Matter for Business
Transportation investments along Richmond Highway and across Fairfax County are more than infrastructure projects; they serve as catalysts for economic growth. Better mobility and accessibility support local businesses by making it easier for employees and customers to get around, while also boosting property values and attracting redevelopment.
Companies consistently cite transportation infrastructure as a key factor when deciding where to locate or expand. These projects will make southeastern Fairfax County a more attractive place to do business for decades to come.
Thank You for Joining Us
We thank all members and guests who attended the September Business Breakfast. Staying engaged with these updates ensures that our business community is ready to adapt, grow, and thrive as Fairfax County continues to invest in the future of transportation.