ATCS successfully administered the $69.7 million 95 Express Lanes/Opitz Boulevard Ramp Project on behalf of VDOT. This strategic transportation improvement created a south-facing ramp connecting Opitz Boulevard directly to the 95 Express Lanes, and it relocated a slip ramp along southbound 95 Express Lanes just south of the Dale Boulevard interchange.
This initiative required specialized expertise in express lanes infrastructure and tolling facility integration while working within a heavily trafficked urban corridor. The project enhanced regional connectivity by creating new access points to Virginia’s managed lane network in Prince William County.
Orchestrating Complex Urban Construction
The project presented unique coordination challenges between the express lanes concessionaire, VDOT, and adjacent stakeholders. Integrating new access points into the existing express lanes system while maintaining continuous operations required precise scheduling and communication protocols.
Widening the Opitz Boulevard Bridge over I-95 created significant engineering and traffic management hurdles. This complex bridge expansion required strategic phasing to maintain traffic flow on the bridge and the interstate below while accommodating safe pedestrian access throughout construction in a developed urban area.
Implementing Project Administration
ATCS organized a comprehensive management structure tailored to the project’s specific express lanes and bridge widening requirements:
- Specialized Bridge Construction Oversight: ATCS deployed expert bridge inspection staff specifically requested by VDOT to manage the critical Opitz Boulevard Bridge widening over I-95. This specialized team monitored structural modifications while maintaining traffic on this essential corridor, demonstrating ATCS’ recognized expertise in complex bridge construction.
- Project Management and Contract Administration: ATCS provided a responsible charge engineer who collaborated closely with VDOT staff and the construction management team to adapt staffing levels based on project fluctuations. This approach ensured seamless invoicing, financial tracking, and coordination of engineering support services throughout construction.
- Pedestrian and Traffic Management: The team implemented strategic pedestrian management techniques to maintain safe passage through active work zones. ATCS coordinated with VDOT Northern Region Operations and VDOT NOVA ITS groups to ensure appropriate maintenance coverage throughout all construction phases.
- Comprehensive Inspection Services: ATCS delivered complete construction project management services, including contract administration, inspection, document management, scheduling, project controls, and change management, with a team that included roadway and bridge inspectors, scheduling specialists, and project controls experts.
Strengthening Regional Mobility Networks
The completed 95 Express Lanes/Opitz Boulevard Ramp Project significantly improved travel options for Prince William County commuters and visitors. The direct access ramps eliminated the need for vehicles to merge through general-purpose lanes, enhancing safety and traffic flow at this high-volume interchange.