without HOV and 66?

[saleonar]

Needing some resident expertise -- without use of 66 during rush hours (single driver), then what is the best way to get from DC to Broadlands? Someone suggested 50 to the beltway to Dulles -- is this the best way? Thanks -

[Pats_fan]

I take the Greenway to the Dulles Toll Road, and then exit onto Route 123 (Dolly Madison/Chain Bridge) heading north. Then, you can take either the GW Parkway (which brings you to Rosslyn/Key Bridge/Roosevelt Bridge) or River Road (which brings you to Georgetown).

IMO this is the fastest and shortest route that doesn't involve the Beltway or Rt. 66, although it is the most expensive route in terms of tolls. You can save lots of money by bypassing the Greenway and taking Waxpool/28, if you want to add at least 20-30 minutes to your commute each way during rush hour.

[Zansu]

I agree with Pats_fan, this route gets you there in a reasonable amount of time without heinous traffic.

[Merlin]

Although I hesitate to share my secret with others, here goes...

Building upon what Pats_fan said, I have an additional recommendation. 123 North tends to get backed up a bit with all the lights. Take Route 123 South instead of North. Stay on it for about a mile, take the right exit for 495 N, and then take that to the GW Parkway. Which I then take to 395 N.

This gets me to 7th and D SW without much pain when I find myself without hubby to carpool with. Of course, the earlier you leave the better.

[vacliff]

I don't mess with 123. I take Dulles Toll Road to 495 North to GW Parkway. This has always worked well for me. However, due to the construction at the exit from Toll Road to 495, it tends to get backed up right now.

[Zansu]

even before the construction that backed up to the toll booths. Merlin's approach is the one I use when I have to drive to MD. (I'm a consultant, I commute all over the place)

[saleonar]

What a wonderful resource you all have been for a new NoVa like myself. I really appreciate it. I knew I would have a heck of a commute when we chose to live in Broadlands -- but I figured it was worth it due to neighborhood, schools, lifestyle etc. With your help, I will fine-tune this commute. Thanks again -- and keep the secret routes coming.

[Merlin]

I thought I was a little crazy to commute to the city from Broadlands, but then I realized how many others do it. So I'm not so crazy -- or we're all crazy?? ;)

[saleonar]

Right about now my husband is thinking I am crazy for taking on this commute -- at times I think he is right!

However, I am still game to look into carpooling. . .

Anyone heading to DC around 7:15 - 7:30 and leaving around 5ish? We can split tolls/gas and I have free parking:)

(I keep trying but still no takers)