The next phase of the extensive reconstruction of the Virginia intersection known as the "Mixing Bowl" is scheduled to begin next month.

The state Transportation Board has awarded Phase 5 of the Springfield Interchange Improvement Project, as it is officially known, where I-95/395 and I-496 meet. Construction will begin next month and take two years to complete.
The $57 million contract consists of improvements on the western side of the Capital Beltway (I-495) between the Heming Avenue Bridge and I-95/395. Along with widening of the beltway in the I-95/395 area, three new bridges will be constructed and the ramp from I-395S to I-495W towards Tysons Corner will be re-aligned to fit the future configuration on the interchange area.
The final phases, 6 and 7, will be advertised for bid next summer.
The entire project consists of building more than 50 bridges and widening I-95 between the beltway and Route 644, Old Keene Mill Road, in Springfield to 24 lanes from its current 14 lanes.
"The Springfield Interchange Improvement Project is running well ahead of schedule," said Transportation Commissioner Charles "Chip" Nottingham. "VDOT is committed to finishing this project on time with the last phase of the project scheduled for completion by late 2006 or early 2007."