The Dulles Greenway
The Dulles Greenway is a privately owned toll road in Northern Virginia that provides a vital connection between Washington Dulles International Airport and the historic town of Leesburg. Officially designated as VA State Route 267, it spans approximately 14 miles, offering a more direct and often less congested alternative for commuters, travelers, and residents in Loudoun County. Opened in 1995, the Greenway has played a key role in supporting the region’s rapid growth by reducing travel times and expanding access to developing residential and commercial areas. The Dulles Greenway has been a significant contributor to the evolving transportation infrastructure of Northern Virginia.
Beyond providing a critical link between Washington Dulles International Airport and Leesburg, the Dulles Greenway also connects with the Dulles Toll Road, allowing easier access to Washington, D.C. and other parts of Northern Virginia. Its construction was privately funded through the Toll Road Investors Partnership II (TRIP II)—a relatively rare example of a completely private toll road in the United States.
The Greenway features a high speed limit (typically 65-70 mph), modern tolling systems (including E-ZPass), and well-maintained roadways that help keep traffic moving quickly. Over the years, the toll rates have been a focal point of both regulatory scrutiny and public debate, as drivers weigh the cost of tolls against the time saved using the Greenway. Despite the ongoing discussions about pricing, the road’s role in easing congestion and supporting Loudoun County’s booming residential and commercial growth has remained a significant benefit for the region.
Points of interest on the Greenway
While the Dulles Greenway itself is primarily a high-speed corridor designed to move vehicles efficiently, there are a few points of interest that travelers may notice or choose to explore via nearby exits. One noteworthy feature is the Dulles Greenway Wetlands Mitigation Project, located along Goose Creek. This area was created to offset the environmental impacts of constructing the Greenway and today supports a variety of native plants and wildlife. Although you can’t directly pull off on the Greenway to visit, the wetlands reflect the road’s effort to balance modern infrastructure needs with natural conservation.
The Greenway provides convenient access to several attractions in Loudoun County. Just off the Greenway’s interchanges, you’ll find Leesburg, known for its historic downtown scene, shopping centers, and large communities. Further east, the surrounding areas of Ashburn, Brambleton, and One Loudoun offer entertainment venues, restaurants, and shops that have blossomed thanks in part to the roadway’s connectivity.
Additionally, on the western end near Leesburg places you’ll find within a short drive include Morven Park, a historic estate with a museum and equestrian center, and the famed Leesburg Outlets. Although these attractions aren’t situated directly on the Greenway, the highway makes them significantly easier to reach for both local residents and visitors.