The first toll lanes on the 183 North project in Austin have opened, featuring real-time variable pricing that adjusts every five minutes based on traffic, with the system designed to maintain traffic flow and potentially increase toll rates due to the new direct connection to the MoPac Express Lanes. The project, part of a $612 million effort to improve traffic flow, is being opened in stages, with the southbound lanes and connecting ramps expected to open soon, and aims to link major tollways for continuous travel from Liberty Hill to downtown Austin.
The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) has released a list of potential locations for optional toll lanes, known as "choice lanes," aimed at alleviating Nashville traffic. The first few locations include I-40 in Knoxville, the Moccasin Bend portion of I-24 in Chattanooga, and stretches of I-65 and I-24 in Middle Tennessee. TDOT prioritizes I-24 from Nashville to Murfreesboro as the most attractive candidate for attracting a private contractor. However, concerns have been raised about accessibility, alternative transportation options, and pricing. Construction bids are not expected until 2025, with the lanes potentially opening in 2027. TDOT believes the project's benefits will outweigh the initial investment.
The state of Tennessee is planning to implement "toll lanes" on several major highways, including I-24 from Nashville to Murfreesboro, as part of a 10-year, $15 billion transportation plan. The state is considering public-private partnerships, where vendors would construct and operate the lanes and collect tolls over 50 years. Other highways being targeted for toll lanes include I-65 from Nashville through Franklin to Spring Hill, I-24 along Moccasin Bend in Chattanooga, and I-40 from the I-40/I-75 junction to state Route 158 west of downtown Knoxville. The state aims to reduce congestion on general lanes while providing motorists with an alternative by paying a fee. Some lawmakers and critics have expressed concerns about foreign companies winning bids and charging tolls beyond the contract period, but transportation officials assure that safeguards will be in place to protect Tennesseans.
