In spring 2025, Arlington County collaborated with the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) to launch a safety pilot project at Route 50 & N/S Highland St to address a pattern of high-speed angle crashes involving turning vehicles.
(Here's a quick video explainer.)
The pilot tested the use of signs, markings, and flex posts to restrict left turns and north/south through movements at the intersection as an interim safety treatment ahead of a long-term, VDOT-led project scheduled for construction in 2030.
Results of the Pilot
Since the pilot launched, there have been significant crash reductions, reductions in vehicle speeds, and community support for this interim safety treatment.
Next Steps
Given the positive results, Arlington and VDOT will apply similar methods in other locations:
- Left turn and through restrictions to all unsignalized intersections on Route 50 between Filmore Street and Glebe Road
- Left turn restriction at Irving St (a Vision Zero Action Spot location).
- North/South Columbus St. Installations are anticipated for spring/summer 2026 pending final approval of land use permits from VDOT
The turn- and through- restrictions will remain in place until the VDOT Route 50 STARS project installs a permanent median and intersection improvements in 2030.
To learn more, read the community input and speed data summary.
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