Slugging is continuing its comeback in Virginia’s PD-16 after COVID-19, and it does not take much looking to find resources and information. Curious about what Slugging is? Slugging, or informal carpooling, is when commuters line up at a Park and Ride lot and wait for cars to drive up, announce where they’re going, and pick up passengers. Originating in the 1970s, this method of transit has been popular with those looking for a free way to get to work. The driver benefits by being able to drive in the HOV lanes up to D.C. or other work destinations, and the riders get a free, relaxing ride to work.
Commuters across PD-16 have been lining up in the early hours of the morning to participate in this experience. Especially prevalent at park and ride lots with OmniRide bus routes, slugging allows more freedom for those who may want to forgo a crowded environment, or those who are running a bit behind schedule. There is a community found in commuting this way through Facebook groups and online sites for resources, including the Slug Lines website, where interested sluggers can receive updates about their pickup and drop of locations. Currently the most popular destination point is the Pentagon, which is the perfect place to transfer due to the Metro station and bus availability on site.
Interested in participating in slugging? We recommend getting involved in the online community so you can know when and where this is happening! If you live in Stafford, you have options currently at the 610 Staffordboro lot, 630 Courthouse Road, and 17 Falmouth lots. If in Spotsylvania, there is currently a push to revive slugging at the 3W lot on Gordon Rd. There are great benefits to it as well! Utilizing slugging as your mode of transportation to work helps qualify for the Guaranteed Ride Home program through Commuter Connections, helping to ease that “what if” stress that can arise when not driving to work.
As slugging reemerges across PD-16, it’s clear that commuters are eager to return to this practical and community-oriented way of getting to work. Supported by a strong online presence and a network of dedicated participants, slugging continues to offer a reliable and convenient alternative to traditional commuting. This grassroots solution proves that informal transit can thrive in a modern world. Whether you’re looking to save money, reduce stress, or simply try something new, now is the perfect time to explore the growing slugging scene and become part of its revival.