As we continue planning to solve one of the nation’s most significant traffic chokepoints, we want to make sure you have as much information as possible about this transformative program. Many people have asked how MDOT SHA will make commuting easier and what it will cost to use the new HOT lanes.
With Phase 1 South of the New American Legion Bridge I-270 Traffic Relief Plan there will be plenty of options for you to travel through the National Capital Region. The choice is yours!
Choose to travel for free
Don’t want to pay a toll? Here’s what you can do instead.
1. Carpool or vanpool. If you have 3 or more people in your vehicle, you’ll be able to ride in the HOT lanes for FREE, for even faster, more reliable travel.
2. Use the existing general-purpose lanes that are there today. These lanes will remain free for everyone and will get you where you need to go with less delay once the new HOT lanes are added.
3. Walk or bike. With a new shared use path across the American Legion Bridge and improved bicycle and pedestrian connections, you’ll be able to walk or bike to places that never had these safe connections before!
Choose to take transit
If you use transit, the addition of HOT lanes will even provide the opportunity for a more reliable bus trip with free-flowing traffic. Plus, buses won’t pay a toll, so all it will cost you is your transit fare to benefit from the HOT lanes. This new travel opportunity will pave the way for more efficient regional transit service using the new HOT lanes to connect key transit centers.
Choose to pay a toll
You’ll also have the option to pay a toll for more reliable travel when you need it most. Many motorists choose to use HOT lanes for a business opportunity or personal life event that they would miss otherwise due to congestion.
For those who choose to use the HOT lanes, the cost will vary based on time of day and traffic levels.
This content was originally shared via Op Lanes Maryland’s e-mail distribution list on April 8, 2022.
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