Express Lanes
Typical traffic volumes on I-15 range from 170,000 to 290,000 vehicles per day, with daily commute delays ranging from 30 to 45 minutes in the general purpose lanes. The I-15 FasTrak program successfully demonstrated that value pricing can be an effective tool for increasing use of an HOV facility while maintaining free-flow conditions on the facility. The total cost for the freeway improvements, including expansion of FasTrak and the transit elements of the I-15 Managed Lanes, is estimated to be approximately $1.3 billion in current dollars.
The I-15 Express Lanes will be constructed in three segments. The first segment, also known as the Middle segment, is eight miles long between State Route 56 and Centre City Parkway. The first stretch of the Middle Segment from SR 56 to Rancho Bernard Road opened in September 2008. The final stretch will open in March 2009. In addition, construction began in early 2008 on the second segment, also known as the South segment, stretching between State Route 56 and State Route 163. The final segment, known as the North segment, spans five miles from Centre City Parkway in Escondido to just south of the SR-78/I-15 interchange. Construction of the North segment began at the end of 2008. Both the South and the North segments are scheduled to be completed in 2012.
A movable center barrier inside the I-15 Express Lanes will allow for up to three Express Lanes in the peak direction. Carpools and FasTrak users will be able to enter and exit the Express Lanes from the main freeway lanes at approximately seven access points along I-15. The tolls on the Express Lanes will be charged per-mile based on traffic conditions.
A BRT system will operate in the I-15 Express Lanes by 2012. Transit stations and park-and-ride lots will be located along I-15 and connected to the Express Lanes via direct access ramps. BRT buses, carpoolers, motorcycles, permitted ‘clean air access’ vehicles, and FasTrak customers will be able to access the Express Lanes through these direct access ramps in addition to the regular freeway on-ramps and the in access points.
The I-15 Express Lanes Project is an innovative solution to the growing traffic congestion in the corridor. Through value pricing, effective freeway management, innovative design, and an integrated BRT system, the Express Lanes will offer a better commute on I-15.
I-15 Environmental Document - March 2003
I-15 Express Lanes Operating Schedule |
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