Transportation Commission hosts meeting for SR 167 HOT lanes tolls
Posted 1.17.08
Transportation Commission Office - PO Box 47308 - Olympia, WA 98504-7308
(360) 705-7070
Date: January 17, 2008
Contact: Reema Griffith, Transportation Commission Executive Director, 360-705-7070
People who are interested in the new State Route 167 high occupancy toll (HOT) lanes pilot project have an opportunity to learn more about the project and comment on a proposed HOT lanes toll schedule. The Washington State Transportation Commission and Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) are holding a public input meeting on Thursday, Jan. 24, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Renton City Hall, 1055 South Grady Way, Renton.
HOT lanes will give drivers a new commuting choice and allow WSDOT to test an innovative congestion management concept. The program allows solo drivers to pay an electronic toll to use carpool lanes previously reserved for vehicles with two or more occupants. Toll rates will fluctuate based on congestion factors, including time of day, traffic volumes, and traffic flow.
The Commission approved a proposed toll range for the SR 167 HOT Lanes Pilot Project during their December 2007 meeting. Commissioners proposed a minimum toll rate of 50 cents and a maximum rate of $9 for solo drivers who choose to use the HOT. The minimum toll would be charged during periods of little or no congestion, the maximum toll rate would be charged to solo drivers using the HOT lanes during peak travel periods and when demand for the lanes is highest. Tolls will reach the maximum amount when the lane is close to filling up. The goal is to keep transit, HOVs and toll-paying SOVs moving at a speed of at least 45 miles per hour.
The toll range may be adjusted as the four-year pilot project progresses. The project team's goal is to make sure the HOT lanes keep the roadway flowing efficiently as possible. The goal of the pilot project is to increase driver options, move more cars and keep transit running on time.
Comments received during the public input meeting will be considered prior to the Commission finalizing the toll range proposal in February. A public hearing for final adoption will be held during the Commission’s Feb. 19 monthly meeting in Olympia.
Learn more by viewing the SR 167 HOT Lanes Pilot Project page or by contacting Patty Rubstello, Project Manager, Urban Corridors Office, 401 2nd Ave. S, Suite 400, Seattle, WA 98104, Phone: 206-464-1299