Chesapeake Expressway FAQs
- Why was the Chesapeake Expressway created?
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The 16-mile, four-lane highway was built through the city's agricultural south to improve traffic both to North Carolina and on local roads, and to ease the summertime weekend traffic.
- Did my tax dollars pay for the construction of the Chesapeake Expressway?
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No. The project was funded from two sources: A loan from the Virginia Department of Transportation and the issuance of bonds.
- How does the Chesapeake Expressway increase mobility?
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The Expressway provides a limited access, high-speed highway from the Great Bridge Bypass to Gallbush Road saving both time and money for local commuters, businesses, and vacationers.
- How many Toll Plazas does the Expressway have on its roadway?
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There is one Main Toll Plaza which is located approximately at mile marker 4.2. There is an additional Auxiliary Plaza in each direction to handle peak summertime volumes.
- Has the toll rate always been the same? And will it change?
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The toll rate increased on May 1, 2011 for the first time since the opening of the Expressway. The City routinely reviews and analyzes the Optimum Toll Rate to meet the requirements of the Bond Indenture. The next toll increase is scheduled for May 1, 2021. Scheduled toll increases are necessary in order to meet financial obligations. The Chesapeake Expressway is part of the Chesapeake Transportation System along with the improved Dominion Boulevard corridor. On July 10, 2012, the Chesapeake City Council approved the initial toll schedule for the Chesapeake Transportation System.
- When will tolls come off the Chesapeake Expressway?
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The debt is anticipated to be paid off by 2051. At that point the City Council can consider removing the tolls.
- What is the toll money used for?
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The tolls collected go toward repaying the bonds and VDOT, in addition to the covering expenses for operations and maintenance of the roadway and facility.
- Do citizens have the opportunity to advise or provide recommendations to the City Council on proposed increases in tolls, fees, and other charges assessed on motorists?
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Yes, the Transportation Toll Facilities Advisory Committee is comprised of 5 members (citizens) as appointed by City Council under City Code Sec. 2-620.30 through 2-620.33 adopted by ordinance February 17, 2009.
- Can I get a discount? Is there a local rate?
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The Chesapeake Expressway offers a discount for frequent users. The more you use the Expressway, the more you save. Visit the Discount Program page to learn more and to sign up. There is no designated “local rate.”
- Are there any discounts for senior citizens or round trips?
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There are no discounts for seniors or round trips.
- What do the “Full Service” signs mean?
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“Full Service” lanes are for customers wanting to pay their toll with cash, get a receipt, or ask for directions. Our “E-ZPass Only” lanes are for E-ZPass members only and are non-stop, 45 M.P.H. lanes.
- Who is responsible for patrolling the Expressway?
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The Chesapeake Expressway is patrolled by the Chesapeake Police Department.
- What is the speed limit in the Express E-ZPass Lanes?
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The posted speed limit on the Chesapeake Expressway is 55 M.P.H. At the Mainline Toll Plaza, the Express E-ZPass Lanes are 45 M.P.H. Customers using the Full Service Toll Booths must come to a complete stop.
- I need new/additional Velcro Strips. Where can I get them?
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Each E-ZPass must be mounted in your windshield. To get Velcro strips, contact the E-ZPass Customer Service Center at 1-877-762-7824 (24 hour automated), or call the Expressway office, 757-204-0010, 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
- How much farther is the Outer Banks from the Toll Plaza?
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If you are headed south, when you reach the Chesapeake Expressway’s Toll Plaza, you will be approximately 60 miles from the Outer Banks. Depending on traffic, you may expect to reach the Outer Banks in about an hour.
- Where is the closest restroom from the Expressway? Where is the closest restaurant?
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Heading North – Proceed four miles to Exit 8, Hillcrest Parkway. There you will find several restaurants and gas stations.
Heading South – Proceed four miles to the North Carolina border. There you will find several restaurants, gas stations, and the Currituck Welcome Center.