SR 85 Express Lanes Project

Overview

Printable Fact Sheet (pdf)

The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is proposing to convert existing carpool lanes on SR 85 to express lanes. Solo drivers will be given the option of paying a toll to use the express lanes.

SR 85 is a 24-mile long freeway that intersects with U.S. 101 at either end with carpool lane to carpool lane direct connectors.

• Express lanes are separated from regular lanes by a painted buffer.
  
  
• Electronic signs display the current toll for solo drivers with FasTrak. Tolls will vary based on the level of congestion in the express lanes and will be adjusted to maintain free-flowing traffic.
  
  
• An overhead antenna reads motorist’s FasTrak transponder and the correct toll is automatically deducted from prepaid FasTrak account: No toll booths, no slowing.

Project Benefits

• Increase efficiency of existing roadway: Existing carpool lane connectors have the available capacity to accommodate more vehicles. More efficient use of existing roadways is accomplished by encouraging transit and carpools, and allowing solo drivers to pay a fee to access the lanes.
  
  
• Fast, reliable travel: By adjusting the tolls for solo drivers which will vary based on the level of congestion, VTA can manage the amount of traffic in the express lanes and maintain free-flowing speeds even when the general purpose lanes are congested. Motorists who choose to use the express lanes will benefit from reliable travel times.
  
  
• Revenue reinvested in the corridor: Revenue from tolls would maintain the facility; enhance transit and provide enforcement by the California Highway Patrol.