It's time to squeeze every possible inch of space on our already-congested freeways for use at their maximum potential. On the 110 and 10 Freeways, the plan of attack is called the ExpressLane project, and while it's kicking off a little later than expected, it will have its ground breaking today in Gardena, making way for toll lanes on about 25 miles of freeway.
Toll Lanes Coming to the 10 and 110 Freeways. Will You Pay to Play?
Want to Drive the Carpool Lane Alone? OK, But It'll Cost You
If you've ever stared longingly as cars whiz past you in the carpool lane, wishing you could join them but still not wanting to have to make small talk with a passenger, you may soon find that you have the best of both worlds -- but it won't be cheap.
10 & 110 Freeways to get Express Toll Lanes in 2010
In addition to approving support for high speed rail, the Metro Board today approved ExpressLanes for portions of the 10 and 110 freeways as part of a one-year congestion reduction demonstration project funded by a federal grant. Because there's no space to build more freeways, Metro says this is a way to squeeze in more capacity. Under the plan, car pool lanes would turn into toll lanes of sorts. Those who carpool, take public transit or drive a motorcycle will not be affected, but solo drivers would be allowed into the lanes at a price--anywhere from a quarter to $1.40 a mile depending on the time of day and demand for usage.
For Whom the Lanes Toll...Perhaps
The Bottleneck Blog is reporting this afternoon that the "California Transportation Commission just unanimously approved the plan in Los Angeles County to convert the carpool lanes on parts of the 10, 110 and possibly the 210 freeways to toll lanes." But blogger and LA Times Road Sage also cautions those who drive regularly on those freeways to not panic...yet. The plan still has to make it through the state legislature before you'll be coughing up cash for your commute.

