As expected, drivers confused about I-405 Express Toll Lanes
Sep 29, 2015, 8:31 AM | Updated: 10:42 am
Chris Sullivan reports that the new Express Toll Lanes on I-405 are worth the money. (WSDOT image)
(WSDOT image)
If you are willing to pay, you will experience a great drive in the new Express Toll Lanes on I-405. But for the majority of drivers, the new reality is a nightmare.
Drivers who used the toll lanes during the first weekday commute saved an average of 30 minutes at a cost of about $1.50.
Tell us about what slows you down
I made six trips between Lynnwood and Bellevue during the Monday morning commute. I never needed more than 25 minutes and the most I paid was $1.
Meanwhile, the general purpose lanes were bumper to bumper the entire stretch as many drivers chose not to buy in or were confused about what to do. Limited access to the lanes might also be keeping people from moving over.
“Overall we’re pleased with the operations,” said Craig Stone, tolling director with the Washington State Department of Transportation. “I think people are getting used to the idea that yes, there are I-405 Express Lanes.”
But how long can we expect the general purpose lanes to be clogged before more drivers start paying a toll?
“We know that over time, more people will start using the Express Toll Lanes, as they get their accounts, as they get used to it, and as they get used to getting in and out of these access points,” Stone said. “It’s going to take some time. For the first day, for the launch, we’re pleased with the operation.”
After spending four hours in the new toll lanes and putting 250 miles on the KIRO Radio car, I have a few observations:
If you are heading into downtown Bellevue, do not get over to the right when you see the “local exits” sign for 4th or 8th. That just puts you into the gridlocked general purpose lanes and will negate any time you saved. There is a direct left-hand exit from the toll lanes at 6th. I was one of the few people using it all Monday morning.
It is going to be tough to get into the toll lane, if you are coming from Woodinville. Traffic was jammed at that chokepoint, and drivers tell us it is very hard to get all the way over in time for the access point. I’m not sure how that is going to improve.
First and foremost, do not cross the double white lines. I noticed several near misses. It’s only a matter of time before we have a major crash because people are crossing over.
