By David Gignilliat
Grinchlock [grinch-lok]
n., the massive surge in holiday traffic, especially in the areas surrounding (businesses, parking lots, stoplights, entrance/exit ramps, etc.) Northern Virginia’s busy shopping mall destinations, often resulting in bumper-to-bumper traffic, clogged roads and major delays.
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In years past, VDOT has tried to forestall some of the volume issues by adjusting the timing on over 200 traffic signals to help expedite traffic at certain key intersections. They also suggest drivers take the following actions:
Visit malls earlier in the day; avoid midday and late-afternoon peak periods.
At Tysons Corner, monitor traffic on TV screens located near the movie theatre, Barnes & Noble & Macy’s.
Put down the cell phone.
(December 2012)