I-66 Slugging Challenge Launches Today

 Establishes New Commuting Option Along I-66 Corridor

FAIRFAX, Va., Sept. 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The I-66 Slugging Challenge officially launches today with commuters using the Monument Drive and University Boulevard Park and Ride locations to slug into DC and Rosslyn locations. Organized by the I-66 Slugging Network, the Challenge is a 66-day regional effort to expand slugging –also known as casual carpooling—along one of Northern Virginia's busiest commuting corridors.

"Slugging has been an effective and efficient commuting solution in the Washington region for decades," said longtime slug, slugging advocate, and I-66 Slugging Network spokesperson David LeBlanc. "It's exciting to see this grassroots tradition expand through the support of organizations and individuals working together to bring slugging to the I-66 corridor, where commuters urgently need more flexible and cost-effective travel options."

Commuters who choose to slug along the I-66 corridor meet at various locations to share the ride, save time and money, and help reduce local congestion. Drivers access the I-66 Express Lanes toll-free by meeting the HOV3+ requirement, while riders receive a free trip. Those who register for the 66-day challenge can also receive incentives and become eligible to win up to $1,000 in prizes by logging their slugging trips.

About the I-66 Slugging Challenge

The I-66 Slugging Challenge is a 66-day commuter initiative designed to build awareness, boost participation, and reward Northern Virginia commuters who choose casual carpooling over driving solo along the I-66 corridor. Throughout the challenge, participants will be able to track their trips to become eligible for prizes and incentives beyond those inherent in free I-66 Express Lanes usage

Morning slug line locations are available at the University Blvd (Gainesville) and Monument Drive (Fairfax) Park and Ride facilities in Northern Virginia, with four drop-off locations in Rosslyn and Washington, D.C. (Rosslyn, L'Enfant Plaza, Navy Yard, and Metro Center). Reverse slug lines are available in the afternoon for commuters returning from work. Morning slug lines typically operate from 6:00 am to 8:30 am while afternoon slug lines typically operate from 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

The I-66 Slugging Challenge runs from Sept. 14 through Nov. 20, 2026. Well beyond the Challenge, this I-66 slugging community will continue to champion and expand the practice of slugging to new locations, both along I-66 and to new employment destinations.

How to Participate in the Challenge

• Visit: https://slugi66.com/ to register for the Challenge. 
• Participate as a slugging rider and/or driver from designated locations.
• Once a car has three or more occupants, the driver switches their E-ZPass Flex to HOV ON mode and uses the I-66 Express Lanes.
• Participants log their slugging trips via the CommuterCash app to become eligible for up to $1,000 in prizes.

Commuters may opt to utilize the I-66 slugging corridor without registering but will not be eligible for the I-66 Slugging Challenge prizes.

About Slugging

Slugging is a unique form of carpooling where drivers and passengers connect in real-time to share rides along a common route—typically without scheduling or money exchange with fellow carpoolers. A driver picks up riders (called "slugs") at a designated location to qualify for toll-free HOV-3+ Express Lanes, and riders get a free ride to key destinations.

Expansion of this decades-long local tradition allows DC-area commuters to:

• Save time: Use the I-66 Express Lanes and bypass general lane traffic congestion.
• Save money: Free rides for passengers, and no tolls for qualifying drivers.
• Reduce stress: No workplace parking battles, no solo slog, fast, comfortable, and reliable commutes during peak commuting times.
• Commute in an eco-friendly way: Fewer cars, less traffic, lower emissions, and cleaner air.
• Join the community-powered initiative: Built on trust, routine, and mutual benefit.

There's no money exchanged and no complicated logistics—just a shared commitment to making commuting faster, cheaper, and more sustainable.

About the I-66 Slugging Network

The I-66 Slugging Network is a time-limited coalition of residential groups and public agencies committed to fostering a slugging community along the I-66 corridor. Network members share a passion for efficient, sustainable, and grassroots transportation solutions in Northern Virginia and Washington, D.C.

I-66 Slugging Network members are committed to:

• Raising awareness of slugging as a time-saving, cost-effective, and safe commuting option along the I-66 Corridor.
• Supporting the I-66 Challenge with signage, digital tools, and community engagement initiatives.
• Providing information and resources for complementary travel options such as the Commuter Connections Guaranteed Ride Home Program or the Fairfax Connector bus service.

Media Contact:
Jennifer Horowitz, HMC
415-218-6339
[email protected]

SOURCE The I-66 Slugging Network