WSDOT sets launch date for new I-405 Express Toll Lanes

The new Express Toll Lanes on I-405 will open on September 27, according to the Washington State Department of Transportation.

In an effort to mitigate any potential problems with the new lanes, WSDOT created an online map to help drivers navigate the freeway between Northeast 6th Street in Bellevue and I-5 in Lynnwood.

Related: One last project before tolls launch

Rates in the new toll lanes, set by the Washington State Transportation Commission, vary between 75 cents and $10 and are based on how many drivers choose to use the lanes. The rates increase as more drivers enter the lanes to manage volume and keep traffic flowing at 45 miles an hour or faster, according to WSDOT. The rates will decrease with lighter volumes.

Cars with three passengers are considered High Occupancy Vehicles and will not be charged for using the lanes.

Toll rates are expected to range from 75 cents and $4 per trip. They’re deducted from Good to Go accounts.

WSDOT says the collected revenue will be used to maintain the tolling system. Any additional funds will be used for future improvements to the I-405/SR 167 corridor.

Related: How to use new I-405 Express Toll Lanes if you’re a motorcyclist

Jennifer Charlebois, WSDOT toll systems engineer, says she expects some confusion when the tolls begin.

“I think that my biggest concern with this is it’s something new in the roadway and it will take a little bit of time for people to get used to it,” Charlebois said.

There will be plenty of state troopers to help explain the changes to drivers.

“We’re going to have quite a few emphasis patrols out there; more WSP than usual patrolling the system,” Charlebois said. “For the first few weeks, they’re really going to be focusing on education. They will pull people over if they see them either not following the occupancy guidelines or crossing the double white line.”

Related: How some drivers might try to cheat the new tolling system