This year's first week back to work for many saw new traffic patterns due to heightened security measures at military installations across the DMV.
Whether you're a civilian heading to work or just heading to the commissary, be prepared for traffic delays and gate changes.
Drivers were reporting significantly long lines at Quantico and Fort Belvoir yesterday, and it looks like they are continuing this morning as well.
Security checks slowing down the ride to & around #Quantico this morning #VAtraffic #GMW pic.twitter.com/b5FpTuoxZd
— Julie Wright (@thejuliewright) January 7, 2020
WTOP is reporting that the Quantico traffic is backing up all the way to I-95 and 610.
ADVISORY: Heightened security at military installations causing unexpected delays throughout our region.
— WTOP Traffic (@WTOPtraffic) January 6, 2020
• Quantico delays from I-95, US-1, VA-610. #VaTraffic #Quantico #DCTraffic
Traffic🔗https://t.co/nb3VFR1abs
Listen Live🔗https://t.co/CWsSByBIIy pic.twitter.com/URMIBbMAaK
The Fort Belvoir Facebook page has been updated to include a pinned post about the potential traffic:
Fort Belvoir is conducting 100 percent ID card checks. Passengers without a valid DoD CAC, military retiree ID card, DoD family member ID, or Fort Belvoir visitors pass will undergo additional security checks.
Quantico has also released a statement.
100% ID checks & an increase in vehicle inspections continue. Travelers can expect increased wait times at gates & traffic near the exits of I-95 & Rt. 1.
— MCBQuantico (@MCB_Quantico) January 6, 2020
We apologize for the inconvenience. The safety & security of the installation, personnel & family members remain a priority. pic.twitter.com/0PyzlEyHiF
Regardless of where they are getting off along the highway, commuters along I-95 in Virginia are seeing major effects from the new gate procedures.
Sheesh this war thing is interrupting my commute home from work in the morning .... second morning in a row traffic been dumb stupid on 95 because all 4 exits to Quantico are backed up for miles 🙃
— Blessed ✨ (@QueJ3_Blessed) January 7, 2020
Owwweee traffic to get on Quantico was backed up onto 95 for over a mile
— Hakuna Matata (@Stevedmv703) January 6, 2020
Maryland commuters aren't getting out of this unscathed either; Bethesda travelers have to deal with gate restrictions and security delays as well.
Situational Awareness - Bethesda Traffic Advisory IAO Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bethesda - Rockville Pike, Jones Bridge Road, Cedar Lane, Old Georgetown may experience some congestion https://t.co/pv9DUVxRcq
— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) January 7, 2020
In D.C., the Navy Yard is limiting its access points.
WASHINGTON NAVY YARD: 9th St. gate will be closed to vehicle traffic until further notice. For those who drive onto base, please plan to enter and exit the installation via 6th St., N St. or O St.
— NSA Washington (@NSAWashingtonPA) January 6, 2020
Thank you for your support and cooperation!
Bottom line, if your route takes you near a military installation or military hospital, be aware that they are updating their access points to include 100 percent ID checks and that delays are inevitable. Try to avoid secondary routes near larger installations if you can. Route 1 in Virginia will be particularly hard-hit until these new processes become more streamlined.
What are your thoughts on these new security measures? Have you been caught up in any of the traffic delays? Tell us about it in the comments.
