In preparation for Friday's September 11^th memorial motorcade, Congressman Connolly is encouraging Northern Virginia drivers to be extra careful on the roads and be aware of the increased motorcycle traffic. More than 1,800 motorcyclists will pass through Northern Virginia to honor the memory of those lost on 9-11. 

"Let's make sure that this commemoration of 9-11 is a safe one on our highways,"  Connolly said.

The memorial ride will begin on Friday morning, starting just outside the Shanksville, PA site of the United flight 93 crash  Riders will proceed to the Pentagon Friday afternoon, and arrive at the World Trade Center Sunday.

As a result of the memorial ride, the Northern Virginia area will experience many road closures and increased congestion, particularly on Friday. State Police said eastbound Dulles Toll Road traffic will be restricted to one lane separated by cones for the motorcade, causing delays coming to or from Dulles airport. 

In addition, eastbound traffic on Interstate 66 will experience increased congestion with additional road closures.  No traffic will be allowed to access on-ramps to I-66 East between Fairfax and Arlington Counties.  This will cause backups on I-66 and the Beltway.  Commuters are encouraged to use Metro or take Route 50 east to get into Washington, D.C.

For more information on the road closures click here.