New Jughandle Turn at Prince William Parkway and Discovery Boulevard to Open Wednesday

Travelers near Prince William Parkway and Discovery Boulevard will experience a traffic change beginning Wednesday, as a new jughandle turn connecting Discovery Boulevard to the parkway officially opens to the public. 

A jughandle turn is a roadway design that improves traffic flow by eliminating traditional left turns at intersections. Instead of turning left from the main road, drivers continue straight past the intersection and use a curved ramp (the "jughandle") on the right side to loop around. From there, they wait at a signal to either cross the main road or make a left turn onto the side street. This design enhances safety by reducing left-turn-related accidents and easing traffic congestion. 

The new traffic signals at the jughandle entrance on Prince William Parkway south—just north of the intersection with University Boulevard—will become operational following Wednesday’s morning rush hour. 

Beginning Thursday at 9 p.m., the traffic lights at the Discovery Boulevard and Prince William Parkway intersection will be adjusted to control the new traffic pattern. By Friday morning, left turns at the intersection will be fully eliminated. 

The jughandle turn is part of ongoing efforts to improve traffic flow and minimize delays during peak travel times. Removing left turns at this busy intersection will help reduce congestion and enhance safety for residents and commuters. 

Information about the new traffic pattern can be found at pwcva.gov/department/transportation/current-road-projects.