More toll lanes are coming to Colorado and here’s what you should know
Courtesy Colorado Department of Transportation
Colorado drivers should ready themselves to pay up for faster travel along Colorado’s Front Range and beyond.
The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has announced major plans for adding another 142 miles of express lanes within the next five years, including along some of the busiest areas along I-70 and I-25, according to a report from CPR News.
Express lanes are the solution for faster, more reliable travel times. The process will be relatively simply – pay a toll and use the express lanes to avoid delays and congestion. There will also be the option to continue to use general-purpose lanes for free.
A map from CDOT showing a selection of corridors for further analysis.
A map from CDOT showing a selection of corridors for further analysis.
Since the introduction of the I-70 Mountain Express Lane, travel times have been found to be significantly reduced from 26 to 52%, with consistent and more reliable speeds also reported. CDOT says it’s great option for skiers looking to spend more time on the slopes and less time traveling in the car.
All express lanes will remain open at all times with the exception of the I-70 Mountain Express Lane. Buses, carpools with at least two passengers ( 3 people total), and motorcycles can use the lanes for free, but they must have an ExpressToll account and pass. I-70 Mountain Express Lane and C-470 Express Lanes are not included in this “free” policy. If you accidentally take Express Lanes without a pass, a bill based on how far you travel will be issued to the registered owner of the vehicle.
Here’s a quick look at where express lanes are currently located and where you can expect to soon find them around Colorado:
Open Express Lanes
Express Lanes currently being constructed
Express Lanes in the planning phase
Colorado isn’t the only state in the mix. California, Texas, Virginia, Florida, and Georgia are each continuing to add express lanes in an effort to make travel more efficient.
Express lanes offer a choice for faster, more reliable travel throughout the state. Just remember to watch your speeds and only enter and exit through the dashed lines. Improper use of express lanes can result in fines of up to $1,000. For more information from CDOT, please visit expresslanes.codot.gov.