METRO: I-405 Sepulveda Pass Express Lane Update
Weekly Update #4
This is the fourth in the series of Weekly Updates being shared during the remainder of the scoping period to keep you informed about the project. In this week’s issue, additional resources are spotlighted to help answer common questions on the Metro ExpressLanes program. For your reference, below are the links to the prior updates that have been shared:
Update #1: Missed the scoping meetings? No problem! (video recording of the formal scoping meeting presentation and instructions on how to submit scoping comments)
Update #2: Project Alternatives (overview of proposed alternatives under consideration)
Update #3: Some of Your Questions Answered (spotlighted a few of the FAQs)
There’s still time to submit your scoping comments! Please see below for instructions on how to submit your scoping comments through October 1, 2021.
Metro ExpressLanes Program - Learn More
In reviewing public scoping comment submissions, there are questions and comments about the Metro ExpressLanes program. Here's the most common question we've received so far:
Do all drivers have to pay to access the ExpressLanes? How do you pay?
(Source: FAQs, 2.2)
No, ExpressLanes allow those meeting the occupancy requirements for the corridor and motorcycles to travel free (like an HOV lane) but also allow single occupant vehicles the option to pay a toll to travel in the lane. Drivers with a qualified Clean Air Vehicle (CAV) decal pay a discounted toll. A “FasTrak Flex®” device allows drivers to declare the number of people (1, 2, 3+) in the vehicle enabling HOV discounts and toll-free trips on the I-10 and I-110 Metro ExpressLanes. FasTrak is an electronic-only toll collection system used in California allowing drivers to drive through designated “FasTrak Only” lanes paying tolls without stopping. Drivers with a non-switchable FasTrak transponder will always pay a toll regardless of the number of occupants in the vehicle. Drivers wanting the option to travel toll-free on the Metro ExpressLanes must upgrade to FasTrak Flex®, which can be used on all toll facilities in California. Under the new Metro ExpressLanes Pay as You Go pilot, the cost of using the ExpressLanes without a valid FasTrak account/transponder has been reduced to $4 (from $25) plus the posted toll rate. The Pay as You Go Notice of Toll Evasion will be mailed to the owner of the vehicle (as registered with the DMV) who is responsible for paying the toll amount, plus a $4 processing fee. If not paid by the date on the notice, additional penalties and fees will be applied. This option, however, does not allow qualifying carpoolers to access the ExpressLanes at no cost as it’s only available to vehicles equipped with a “FasTrak Flex®” device.
Below are some other helpful resources on the Metro ExpressLanes program.
Access the ExpressLanes Tier 1 Network Map for details on Metro’s current and proposed future ExpressLanes network
Visit metroexpresslanes.net to learn more about the program
See Low-Income Assistance Plan, transit rewards, carpool loyalty
Review the Key Program Statistics to see how the Metro ExpressLanes program has performed on I-10 and I-110
Be sure to check out these additional 405 Sepulveda Pass ExpressLanes project resources:
Visit the ‘What are ExpressLanes’ of the project’s Interactive StoryMap
Public Scoping Meeting Recording – see the portion of the presentation that provides a quick overview of the Metro ExpressLanes Program (5-minutes; 16:56 - 22:05)
Submit Your Comments
Please submit your comments via any of the following methods by Friday, October 1, 2021. During this period, you are encouraged to submit your thoughts and comments on the alternatives, as well as help identify and inform the issues that may need to be addressed in the environmental process.
213.922.4860
Ron Kosinski, Deputy District Director
California Department of Transportation
Division of Environmental Planning
100 S. Main Street - MS 16A
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Explore the Corridor
An interactive StoryMap has been developed as an online informational tool to help enhance the understanding of the project, proposed alternatives and encourage the public submittal of scoping comments. The interactive StoryMap includes maps and other helpful visuals as well as instructions on how to submit a scoping comment, including a link to the online comment form. Click the image below or visit 405ExpressLanes.info for more details.
