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Want to Drive the Carpool Lane Alone? OK, But It'll Cost You
Photo by Amateur Foto via the LAist Featured Photos pool on Flickr
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. The OC Register reports that starting next year, two stretches of carpool lanes -- 14 miles on the I-10 between Alameda Street and the 605, and 11 miles on the I-110 between Adams Boulevard and the Artesia Transit Center -- will be converted into high-occupancy toll lanes, or HOT lanes, as part of a one-year pilot project.
The lanes will accommodate solo drivers who pay a toll, which will range in cost from $0.25 to $1.50 a mile, depending on how heavy traffic is. According to a statement put out by Metro and CalTrans, traffic conditions in HOT lanes will be monitored, and once speeds get below 45 mph, they will be closed to those driving alone. The lanes will still be free of charge for carpoolers.
To access HOT lanes, drivers will need to buy a transponder for $75, which will include prepaid toll fees of $50 and a transponder deposit of $25, refundable if and when the device is returned in good condition.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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